This chapter covers the following topics:

• the backwards and forwards tests
• the relationship with the date of application
• the relationship with the date of entitlement
• changes in the individual’s level of need and receiving benefit

This chapter explains the backwards test and forwards tests for Child Disability Payment (CDP).

The backwards test is the amount of time the individual must have met the criteria of entitlement for a particular component, or rate of a component of CDP (CDP regs, reg. 11(3)(a), 12(6)(a) and 13(10)(a)).

The forwards test looks at the amount of time the individual is likely to meet the criteria of entitlement for a particular component, or rate of a component of CDP (CDP regs, reg. 11(3)(b), 12(6)(b) and 13(10)(b)).

There is no backwards test or forwards test for individuals with a terminal illness. For more information please consult the Special Rules for Terminal Illness chapter.