Navigating the world of government services can sometimes feel like you’ve been asked to solve a Rubik's Cube in the dark. One of the key pieces to the childcare puzzle is the Customer Reference Number, or CRN. If you’re applying for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) or enrolling your child in care, you'll need one.
So, what exactly is a CRN and how do you get your hands on it without losing your sanity? Let's break it down, step by step. We'll cover what it is, why you need it, and how to find the CRN for both you and your child.
What is a Customer Reference Number (CRN)?
Think of a Customer Reference Number as your personal ID for all things Centrelink. It’s a unique nine-digit number followed by a letter, and it’s assigned to you when you first claim a payment or use a service from Services Australia.
This number stays with you for life, linking to your personal record. Even if you haven’t received payments in years, your CRN is still filed away in the system, waiting for when you need it next. It's the key that unlocks access to payments and services, including the much-needed Child Care Subsidy.
Why Do I Need a CRN for Childcare?
If you want to reduce your out-of-pocket childcare fees with the Child Care Subsidy, a CRN is non-negotiable. Both you and your child will need one. You'll be asked for these numbers when you:
- Enrol your child in an approved childcare service.
- Link your Centrelink account to your myGov account.
- Submit your claim for the Child Care Subsidy.
- Update your family's details with Centrelink.
Without these CRNs, your subsidy claim will hit a roadblock, and you won't be able to access those government payments.
How to Find Your Own CRN
If you've ever received a Centrelink payment, think Parental Leave Pay or Family Tax Benefit, you already have a CRN. The trick is just finding it.
Here are a few places to look:
- On letters from Centrelink: It's usually printed near the top of any official correspondence.
- On a concession or Health Care Card: If you have one, your CRN will be on it.
- Through your myGov account: If your Centrelink account is already linked to myGov, sign in and navigate to your Centrelink profile. Your CRN will be displayed there.
What If I've Never Had a CRN?
No worries. If you're new to Centrelink, getting a CRN is your first step. The simplest way to do this is online.
- Set up a myGov account: If you don't already have one, head to the myGov website and follow the prompts to create an account. You'll need an email address.
- Link to Centrelink: Once you're signed into myGov, look for the ‘Link a service’ option and choose Centrelink.
- Prove your identity: Since you don't have a CRN yet, you'll need to prove who you are. The system will guide you through the Centrelink identity verification process. You’ll need some standard identity documents, like your driver's licence, passport, or birth certificate.
Once your identity is confirmed, Centrelink will issue you a brand new CRN.
If you hit a snag with the online process or prefer to speak to a person, you can always call Centrelink on their Families line or visit a service centre. Just be sure to have your identity documents with you.
How to Get a CRN for Your Child
Just like you, your little one needs their own unique CRN to be eligible for the Child Care Subsidy. Remember, the CCS is paid per child, so if you have more than one kid in care, each will need their own number.
If Your Child Already Has a CRN
Chances are if you've claimed a family payment for your child before, they already have a CRN. You can find it by:
- Logging into your Centrelink online account: Go via myGov or use the Express Plus Centrelink mobile app. Select the ‘My Family’ section to view your children’s details, including their CRNs.
- Checking a concession card: If your child is listed on your Health Care Card, their CRN will be on there too.
- Calling the Centrelink Families line: If you can't find it online, a quick call should sort it out. After confirming your identity, they can provide your child’s CRN over the phone.
If Your Child Needs a New CRN
If your child has never been part of a Centrelink claim, they will be assigned a CRN when you apply for the Child Care Subsidy.
When you submit your CCS claim, you’ll provide your child’s details, including their birth certificate. As part of processing your claim, Centrelink will create a record and a CRN for your child.
Some childcare providers may ask for your child’s CRN during enrolment. If you're waiting for your CCS claim to be processed, just let the centre know. They can often proceed with enrolment while the number is being generated.
Putting It All Together
Getting your finances sorted for childcare can feel like a big job, but tracking down your CRNs is a straightforward task once you know where to look. With these numbers in hand, you’re one step closer to finalising your childcare enrolment and accessing the subsidy.
For more information on the Child Care Subsidy, including eligibility and how much you might receive, check out our helpful articles on the cost of childcare or try our easy-to-use CCS Calculator.
If your child hasn't been assigned a CRN, they'll receive one when you apply for the CCS. Some childcare providers require a child's CRN during the enrollment process, so you might need to wait until you've been approved for the CCS to be able to finalise your enrollment. You can check with the childcare provider to see what their enrollment requirements are.
If you'd like to learn more about the CCS and the eligibility requirements you can read our article detailing what is the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) or explore our library of blogs dedicated to the cost of childcare.
