HECS/HELP Repayment Calculator Australia (2025-26)
Estimate HECS/HELP repayments, check the 2025-26 threshold, and see how study debt changes Australian take-home pay. This calculator is designed for people who want a quick HELP estimate before comparing full tax, levy and net-pay outcomes.
Quick answers
- For 2025-26, compulsory repayments generally start once repayment income is above $67,000.
- HECS/HELP is based on repayment income, not just taxable income.
- You do not need your remaining HELP balance to estimate compulsory repayments.
- Use the HECS/HELP thresholds guide if you want the ATO rules behind the estimate.
What income is used for HELP repayments?
Compulsory HELP repayments are based on repayment income. This is not always the same as taxable income.
Repayment income can include taxable income plus adjustments such as:
- reportable fringe benefits
- net investment losses
- reportable super contributions
- exempt foreign employment income
2025-26 repayment thresholds
For 2025-26, compulsory repayments start once repayment income is above $67,000. OzMoneyTools can include HECS/HELP in the take-home pay calculator and optionally lets you add advanced income-test components.
Estimate pay with HECS/HELPWhy payroll and tax return amounts differ
If you tell your employer you have a study loan, they generally withhold extra PAYG amounts. The ATO then calculates the compulsory repayment when your tax return is assessed.
That means your payslip withholding can differ from the final annual repayment, especially if your income changes during the year or your repayment income includes adjustments.
Assumptions and verification tips
- Repayment estimates depend on the selected tax year and threshold table.
- Repayment income can differ from taxable income due to reportable adjustments.
- Compare annual estimates with your final tax outcome, not just one payslip.