HECS / HELP repayment
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| Repayment income | Repayment formula |
|---|---|
| Up to $69,528 | Nil |
| $69,529 – $129,717 | 15c per $1 over $69,528 |
| $129,718 – $186,050 | $9,028 + 17c per $1 over $129,717 |
| $186,051 and over | 10% of total repayment income |
How compulsory HELP repayments work
Compulsory repayments for HELP and other study and training support loans are assessed through the Australian tax system. You generally start repaying when your repayment income exceeds the threshold for the relevant financial year. Repayment income is not always the same as taxable income: it can include taxable income plus certain reportable fringe benefits, net investment losses, reportable super contributions and exempt foreign employment income.
The calculator gives an indicative repayment based on the annual income entered. It assumes that amount represents your repayment income, which may not be correct for every borrower. Your actual compulsory repayment is determined through your tax return and ATO assessment, taking the applicable rules and income into account.
2026–27 repayment thresholds
For 2026–27, the first threshold shown is $69,528. The marginal repayment rate is 15 cents for each dollar above this threshold up to $129,717. For the next band, the formula is $9,028 plus 17 cents for each dollar above $129,717. At $186,051 and above, the repayment is 10% of total repayment income.
This marginal calculation replaced the former broad percentage-of-income bands. It means a borrower just above the threshold begins with a smaller repayment that rises as income rises. Check the table and use the income-year selector in the calculator to compare the applicable year.
How repayments are collected
If you are an employee, you can tell your employer that you have a study loan so they can withhold additional amounts from salary and wages. Those withholdings are not the final repayment calculation; they are credits that are reconciled when you lodge your tax return. If income changes during the year, the withheld amount may differ from the final amount assessed.
People with other income sources or changing work arrangements should consider whether their withholding is enough. A compulsory repayment can be payable even where no extra amount was withheld during the year. Check your myGov ATO account and the ATO guidance for the current rules.
Voluntary repayments and indexation
You may be able to make voluntary repayments toward a study loan. Before doing so, check the current balance, timing and payment information in your ATO account. Voluntary repayments may not be refundable, and they should be considered alongside other financial priorities and any existing debts.
Study loan balances may be indexed under the rules applying to the relevant year. Indexation and repayment are distinct: a compulsory repayment reduces the balance, while indexation can change the amount owed. Because rules and loan arrangements can change, verify your loan details with the ATO before making a decision.
Use the estimate with care
A HECS calculator cannot access your ATO repayment income, loan balance, withholding history, other debts or eligibility for a particular loan rule. If your income is near a threshold or includes fringe benefits, investment losses, super contributions or foreign income, the final result may differ materially from this simplified estimate.
For a broader view of your after-tax income, open the main calculator and turn on the HECS / HELP option. For loan-specific information, use ATO online services or talk with a registered tax agent. Rates verified October 2026 from ato.gov.au.
When your income changes
A change in work hours, a new job or time away from work can affect how much your employer withholds. The repayment worked out at tax time is based on your repayment income for the entire financial year, not simply the most recent payslip. For that reason, a withholding amount can be higher or lower than the final compulsory repayment.
If you have multiple employers, make sure your tax file number declaration and withholding arrangements reflect that you have a study loan. Employers use the information you provide to withhold additional amounts, but the ATO reconciles those payments against your final liability. If you are unsure whether your current withholding is enough, review your expected income and ask the ATO or a registered agent.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 2026–27 HELP repayment threshold?
The threshold shown for 2026–27 is $69,528 in repayment income. Confirm your repayment income and liability with the ATO.
Is repayment income the same as taxable income?
Not necessarily. Repayment income can include taxable income and certain other amounts such as reportable fringe benefits and reportable super contributions.
Can I make a voluntary repayment?
Voluntary repayments may be available. Check your current balance and payment information with the ATO before making a payment.