Applications in writing
The requirement that student loan applications for relief from penalties or repayment obligations on hardship grounds be made in writing has been removed.
Sections 53 and 54 of the Student Loan Scheme Act 1992
The requirement that applications for relief from penalties or payment of a repayment obligation on hardship grounds could only be made in writing has been removed.
Background
Until now, borrowers were required to apply for relief from penalties or payment of their repayment obligation on hardship grounds in writing. In many cases Inland Revenue already holds the information necessary to verify a borrower's financial position. Requiring a written application can therefore create unnecessary work for both borrowers and Inland Revenue.
Key features
The changes remove the requirement that applications for relief from penalties or payment of a repayment obligation on hardship grounds must be made in writing. Inland Revenue will accept an application by telephone, in writing or by any other acceptable manner. However, the Commissioner may still require a written application.
Application date
The change applies to penalty applications made from 28 March 2007 and hardship applications made from 1 April 2007.
Other sections in this legislation
| Information matching | Access to Customs' arrival and departure | Extending the amnesty | Simplifying the law | New repayment rules | Interest-free loans for borrowers overseas | Removal of interest write-offs | Exemptions for volunteers | Late payment penalties | Small balances | Applications in writing | Hardship relief | Care and management | Interest write-offs validated | Interest rate formula | Other technical amendments |