Many Australians have noticed that Centrelink claims worth around $1,340 remain marked as “under review” for longer than expected. While this can be frustrating for applicants who rely on timely financial support, several administrative and verification factors contribute to these delays.
High Volume of Applications
One of the main reasons claims remain under review is the high number of applications Centrelink processes at any given time. During periods of increased demand—such as economic uncertainty, policy changes, or seasonal job losses—processing times often extend as staff work through backlogs.
Verification of Personal and Financial Details
Centrelink must carefully verify income, assets, and personal details before approving payments. If information provided by an applicant does not match existing records or requires clarification, the claim may be paused for additional checks. Even small discrepancies can result in extended review periods.
Requests for Supporting Documents
Claims may stay under review if supporting documents are missing, unclear, or recently updated. Proof of income, employment status, rental agreements, or bank statements often need manual assessment, especially when documents are uploaded late or require follow-up.
Compliance and Eligibility Checks
Some claims undergo extra compliance reviews to ensure eligibility rules are met. These checks help prevent overpayments and ensure public funds are distributed correctly. While necessary, this process can add time before a claim is finalised.
System and Processing Delays
Technical system updates or internal processing adjustments can also slow claim assessments. When systems are updated or claims are transferred between departments, temporary delays may occur even if all information is correct.
What Applicants Can Do
Applicants can help reduce delays by regularly checking their online account, responding quickly to requests for information, and ensuring all details are accurate and up to date. Contacting Centrelink directly may also provide clarity on whether further action is needed.
Conclusion
While delays in $1,340 Centrelink claims can be stressful, most reviews are part of routine checks designed to ensure fairness and accuracy. Staying informed and proactive can help applicants navigate the process more smoothly while awaiting a final decision.