HECS repayment calculator
Under the new marginal system, you only repay 15 cents of each dollar you earn above $69,528 in 2026-27. Enter your income and balance to see your yearly and per-pay repayments, and when you'll be debt-free.
- ATO rates for 2026-27
- Includes HECS, Medicare & super
- Private: nothing leaves your browser
HELP repayment rates
| Repayment income | 2025-26 | 2026-27 |
|---|---|---|
| Below threshold | Nil up to $67,000 | Nil up to $69,528 |
| Middle band | 15c per $1 over $67,000, up to $125,000 | 15c per $1 over $69,528, up to $129,717 |
| Top band | $8,700 + 17c per $1 over $125,000 | $9,028 + 17c per $1 over $129,717 |
Repayments at common incomes (2026-27)
| Income | Per year | Per fortnight |
|---|---|---|
| $70,000 | $71 | $3 |
| $80,000 | $1,571 | $60 |
| $90,000 | $3,071 | $118 |
| $100,000 | $4,571 | $176 |
| $120,000 | $7,571 | $291 |
| $150,000 | $12,476 | $480 |
Tips for HECS
- Tell your employer you have a HELP debt (on your TFN declaration) so the right amount is withheld; otherwise you’ll get a bill at tax time.
- Salary sacrifice doesn’t lower your repayment income, because reportable super contributions are added back.
- If you move overseas, you still need to report your worldwide income and make repayments once it’s over the threshold.
Frequently asked questions
What is the HECS repayment threshold for 2026-27?
$69,528. Below that you make no compulsory repayment. From $69,529 to $129,717 you repay 15% of income above $69,528, and above $129,717 it's $9,028 plus 17% of the excess.
How much HECS will I repay on $85,000?
In 2026-27, about $2,321 a year, or $89 a fortnight. Under the old system (before July 2025) it would have been higher, because a percentage applied to your whole income.
What counts as repayment income?
Taxable income plus reportable fringe benefits, reportable super contributions (like salary sacrifice), net investment losses and exempt foreign income.
Does HECS have interest?
No interest, but the balance is indexed each 1 June by the lower of CPI and wage growth. Indexation was 2.8% on 1 June 2026.
Should I make voluntary repayments?
They reduce the balance before indexation is applied, but there's no discount. Many people prefer to pay off higher-interest debt or build savings first. Add an amount above to see the effect.
Related calculators
Estimates only, using ATO resident tax rates, the low income tax offset, Medicare levy, Medicare levy surcharge and HELP thresholds for each year. 2027-28 uses the legislated 14% rate with other thresholds carried forward. Your actual tax depends on your full circumstances; check with the ATO or a registered tax agent. Last reviewed 14 October 2026.