How To Find The CRN Number For You & Your Child

Most Australian families are eligible for a subsidy from the Australian Government to help cover the cost of childcare – hurrah! But you’ll need a CRN first. We’ll help you work out how to find your CRN.

If you already know your child’s CRN, that’s great. Let us know and we’ll get started on the paperwork. But if you’re wondering “how do I find my CRN?” and “what even is a CRN?”, read on and we’ll point you in the right direction.

What is a Customer Reference Number (CRN)?

A Customer Reference Number (CRN) is a number that Centrelink assigns to you to identify you and keep all your records linked. A CRN is nine numbers and ends with a letter, for example, 123 456 789A.

If you’ve ever proven your identity with Centrelink or received a payment from Centrelink, you will already have a CRN. If you have claimed Parental Leave Pay or Family Tax Benefit for your child, they will have a CRN too.

Why do I need to share my CRN with Edge Early Learning?

When you enrol at Edge Early Learning, we let Centrelink know – using your CRN – so the government can pay you any subsidies you are entitled to receive. Your enrolment will show on your MyGov account and you will need to confirm the enrolment to receive the subsidy.

How can I find my CRN?

If you’re wondering how to get a CRN number or how to find my CRN number online, there are a few ways to go about it. Hopefully, it’s quick and easy but, we’re not going to lie, if you want to talk to a real person, you’ll probably have to wait in a Centrelink queue (over the phone or in real life) and then prove your identity. Setting up an online account with MyGov takes some effort, but it’s well worth it to save your sanity in the long run and you’ll always be able to find your CRN online. Just don’t forget your password! Here are the best ways to find your CRN:

• Centrelink Documents: If you’ve kept any letters or statements from Centrelink, they will include your CRN – too easy, you’re ready to go.

• View your CRN online via MyGov: If your MyGov account is already linked to your Centrelink account, navigate to your Centrelink profile page and your child’s CRN will be there.

• Request your CRN via MyGov:

Sign into your MyGov account

Select Centrelink from the ‘Link A Service’ menu

Select ‘no’ to ‘do you know your CRN’ prompt and click ‘next’

Select ‘get started’ on Digital Identity or Centrelink Identity Verification

• Visit a Centrelink Office: Find your local Centrelink office and drop by to request your CRN in person. Make sure you take a photo ID such as your Driver’s License with you to prove your identity.
• Phone Centrelink: You can call Centrelink to find your CRN. Try the My Families Line: 13 61 50, but be warned, the first thing the recorded voice will ask for is your CRN. Persevere. And have your identity documents ready to prove your identity.
• Centrelink Express Plus App: Open the app and select ‘My Family’ from the menu

Providing subsidised childcare at Edge Early Learning

Our educators are proud to provide quality childcare and learning opportunities for your children. Whether you need full-time care or just a couple of days a week, most families will be able to access the Australian Government’s childcare subsidy. Here’s more information about how the childcare subsidy works.