Understanding the CBA Discharge Authority Form
Commonwealth Bank utilizes an electronic Discharge Form, accessible online. This form initiates the mortgage discharge process, streamlining requests for property release or refinance.
What is a CBA Discharge Authority?
A CBA Discharge Authority is a crucial document used by Commonwealth Bank (CBA) to formally authorize the release of a mortgage securing a loan. It’s essentially permission granted by the borrower to CBA to remove the bank’s interest in a property, typically when the loan is fully repaid or refinanced with another lender.
This authority comes in the form of a completed and signed form, often accessed and submitted electronically. It confirms the borrower’s intent and provides necessary details for CBA to process the discharge or refinance request efficiently. The form ensures a secure and legally compliant transfer of property ownership or loan responsibility.
Purpose of the Discharge Authority Form
The primary purpose of the CBA Discharge Authority Form is to legally authorize Commonwealth Bank to remove its security interest from a property. This is required when a loan is either fully repaid, or when the borrower is refinancing their loan with a different financial institution.
The form ensures a smooth and secure transfer process, protecting both the borrower and the bank. It provides CBA with the necessary consent and details to officially discharge the mortgage, allowing for clear title transfer or facilitating the new loan arrangement. Accurate completion is vital for a timely and problem-free discharge.

Accessing the CBA Discharge Authority Form (PDF)
Commonwealth Bank primarily uses an electronic discharge form online; however, physical copies may be available at local CBA branch locations for convenience.
Downloading the Form Online
Commonwealth Bank’s preferred method for obtaining the Discharge Authority Form is through their online platform. Currently, a directly downloadable PDF isn’t prominently featured. Instead, customers initiate the discharge process online by completing their details.
This online form effectively is the discharge authority, gathering necessary information electronically. The system guides borrowers through the required fields. While a standalone PDF download isn’t the standard, completing the online form generates the necessary documentation internally for processing. Access this via the CommBank website and follow the prompts for mortgage discharge or refinance requests.
Availability at Commonwealth Bank Branches
Although Commonwealth Bank prioritizes online submissions, physical copies of the Discharge Authority Form are available at any Commonwealth Bank branch across Australia. Customers can visit a local branch during operating hours and request a form from a bank representative.
This provides an alternative for those who prefer a paper-based process or lack convenient online access. Completed and signed forms can then be returned to the same branch for submission, offering a convenient in-person option alongside the email submission method. Branch staff can also assist with basic form completion questions.
Completing the CBA Discharge Authority Form
The form requires detailed information, including borrower specifics, loan account details, and discharge/refinance particulars, ensuring accurate processing of your request.
Section 1: Borrower Details
This initial section of the CBA Discharge Authority Form meticulously gathers essential information about the borrower(s) associated with the loan. Expect to provide full legal names, current residential addresses, contact phone numbers, and email addresses for all parties involved.
Accurate details are paramount; discrepancies can cause significant delays in processing. You may also need to supply date of birth information for verification purposes. Ensure all provided details precisely match the records held by the Commonwealth Bank to avoid complications during the discharge or refinance process. Double-checking this section is crucial.
Section 2: Loan Account Information
This critical section of the CBA Discharge Authority Form demands precise details regarding the loan account(s) slated for discharge or refinance. You’ll need to accurately input the loan account number(s) as it appears on your statements.
Furthermore, specify the exact loan amount outstanding and the current repayment type. Providing the property address associated with the loan is also essential. Confirming these details against your latest loan statements ensures accuracy and expedites the process. Incorrect account information will inevitably lead to processing delays.
Section 3: Discharge/Refinance Details
This section clarifies the purpose of the Discharge Authority Form – whether it’s a full discharge of the mortgage upon repayment, or a refinance to a new lender. Clearly indicate if funds are being used to fully repay the loan.
If refinancing, provide details of the new lender, including their Australian Business Number (ABN). Specify the anticipated settlement date for the refinance. Accurate completion of this section is vital for a smooth transition and ensures the Commonwealth Bank can correctly release the security.
Section 4: Solicitor/Conveyancer Details (If Applicable)
Complete this section only if you are utilizing a solicitor or conveyancer to manage the discharge or refinance process. Provide their full name, firm name, contact phone number, and email address. Accurate details ensure seamless communication between Commonwealth Bank and your legal representative.
Including these details allows for direct coordination regarding necessary documentation and settlement procedures. If you are handling the discharge/refinance independently, this section can be left blank; however, providing details streamlines the process and minimizes potential delays.
Submitting the Completed Form
Return the signed form via email to cbadischarges@cba.com;au, or deliver it in person to any Commonwealth Bank branch.
Email Submission: cbadischarges@cba.com.au
For convenient submission, email the completed and fully signed CBA Discharge Authority form as a PDF attachment to cbadischarges@cba.com.au. Ensure the scanned document is clear and legible to avoid processing delays.
When emailing, briefly state the purpose of your submission – either a full discharge or refinance request – in the email subject line. This helps the CBA team prioritize and efficiently process your request.
Remember to retain a copy of the submitted form and the email confirmation for your records. Submitting via email is a quick and secure method for initiating the discharge process.
In-Person Submission at a Branch
Alternatively, you can submit the completed and signed CBA Discharge Authority form directly at any Commonwealth Bank branch. Simply visit your nearest branch during operating hours and present the form to a bank representative.
Ensure all sections are accurately filled and properly signed before submission. Branch staff can confirm receipt of your form and may offer assistance if needed.
This method provides a personal touch and allows for immediate confirmation of delivery. Retain a dated receipt from the branch as proof of submission for your records.

Required Documentation Alongside the Form
Supporting documents, like identification and proof of funds (if applicable), are crucial when submitting the CBA Discharge Authority form for a smooth process.
Identification Verification
Commonwealth Bank requires robust identification verification alongside the completed Discharge Authority form. Acceptable forms typically include a current driver’s license, passport, or official government-issued photo identification. The provided ID must be valid and clearly display your name, address, and photograph.
Copies of identification should be certified as true copies if submitting via email to cbadischarges@cba.com.au. For in-person submissions at a branch, bring the original identification document. This verification step ensures the bank confirms the applicant’s identity and protects against fraudulent requests related to mortgage discharge or refinance.
Proof of Funds for Repayment (If Applicable)
If your Discharge Authority form pertains to full loan repayment, Commonwealth Bank necessitates proof of funds. Acceptable documentation includes recent bank statements, a solicitor’s trust account statement, or evidence of sale proceeds if refinancing. These documents must clearly demonstrate sufficient funds to cover the outstanding loan amount and any associated discharge fees.
Ensure the statements are recent (typically within 30-90 days) and display your name as the account holder. Submitting this documentation alongside the form expedites the discharge process, particularly when loans are being repaid in full, confirming financial capacity.

Processing Time and Follow-Up
Typical processing times vary, but allow several business days. Contact Commonwealth Bank for status updates via phone or email after submission of the form.
Typical Processing Timeframes
The timeframe for processing a CBA Discharge Authority Form can fluctuate based on several factors, including the complexity of the loan and current workload. Generally, borrowers can anticipate a processing period of approximately 3 to 5 business days after all required documentation is received.
However, it’s crucial to remember this is an estimate. Periods may extend if there are any discrepancies in the submitted information or if additional clarification is needed from the borrower or their solicitor. Complex cases, such as those involving multiple properties or intricate loan structures, often require longer processing times.
Checking the status regularly is advisable.
Contacting CBA for Status Updates
To inquire about the status of your submitted CBA Discharge Authority Form, the primary point of contact is Commonwealth Bank’s customer service team. While a dedicated tracking system isn’t publicly available, you can reach them via phone banking. Be prepared to provide your loan account details and the date of form submission.
Alternatively, contacting your relationship manager (if applicable) can offer personalized assistance. Consistent follow-up is recommended, especially if the estimated processing timeframe has passed. Keep a record of all communication, including dates, times, and representative names, for future reference.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Frequent issues include incorrect account details or missing signatures on the CBA Discharge Authority Form, causing processing delays; double-check all information carefully.
Incorrect Account Details
Providing inaccurate loan account information on the CBA Discharge Authority Form is a common issue that significantly delays the discharge or refinance process. This includes errors in the loan account number, property address, or borrower details.
Commonwealth Bank requires precise matching of submitted data with their records. Double-check all figures and details against your loan statements before submission. Even minor discrepancies can lead to rejection and necessitate resubmission of a corrected form.
Carefully review the form, and if unsure, contact CBA directly for assistance in verifying your account information before submitting the discharge authority form.
Missing Signatures
A frequently encountered problem with the CBA Discharge Authority Form is the omission of required signatures. The form must be signed by all borrowers listed on the loan account to be considered valid. Missing signatures automatically result in processing delays or outright rejection of the request.
Ensure all designated spaces are properly signed, dated, and legible. If submitting digitally, verify the electronic signature is correctly applied. Review the completed form meticulously before submitting via email to cbadischarges@cba.com.au or in person at a branch.
Incomplete forms will not be processed, so double-check before submission!

Resources and Support
Commonwealth Bank’s website offers comprehensive guidance, and helpful video tutorials are available to assist with completing the discharge authority form efficiently.
Commonwealth Bank Website
The Commonwealth Bank website serves as a central hub for all information related to the CBA Discharge Authority Form. It provides direct access to the electronic form, eliminating the need to visit a branch solely for document acquisition. Detailed guides and frequently asked questions (FAQs) are readily available, addressing common queries regarding the discharge or refinance process.
Users can find step-by-step instructions, ensuring accurate completion of each section. The website also offers links to relevant support articles and contact information for further assistance. Regularly checking the website ensures access to the most up-to-date form versions and procedural changes.
Helpful Video Tutorials
Several online video tutorials provide visual guidance on completing the Commonwealth Bank discharge authority form. These resources break down the process into manageable steps, demonstrating exactly where to input information and what documentation is required. Viewers benefit from seeing a practical walkthrough, reducing potential errors and streamlining the submission process.
These tutorials often highlight common pitfalls and offer troubleshooting tips. Searching platforms like YouTube for “CBA discharge form” yields relevant results. These videos are particularly useful for those who prefer a visual learning style or require clarification on specific form sections.

Understanding Discharge vs. Refinance
A discharge releases the security on a loan, while a refinance replaces it with a new lender, often requiring a Discharge/Refinance Authority Form.
Discharge of Mortgage Explained
Discharging a mortgage with Commonwealth Bank signifies the complete removal of the bank’s financial claim against your property. This process occurs when the loan is fully repaid, or when refinancing with another lender. The CBA Discharge Authority Form is central to this, authorizing the bank to release its security interest.
Essentially, it confirms you’ve met your loan obligations. Completing and submitting this form, alongside required documentation, allows CBA to officially remove the mortgage registration from the property title. This ensures a clear title for future transactions, like selling the property or obtaining new financing. The electronic form streamlines this process, making it more efficient for borrowers.
Refinancing with a New Lender
When refinancing your home loan to a different financial institution, the CBA Discharge Authority Form plays a crucial role. Your new lender will typically require this form to facilitate the transfer of the mortgage security. It authorizes Commonwealth Bank to release its hold on your property, allowing the new lender to register their mortgage.
Submitting the completed form, along with proof of funds from the new lender, ensures a smooth transition. The form confirms your consent for CBA to discharge the existing mortgage, paving the way for the refinance to be finalized. This process ensures a clear title transfer to the new lender.

Legal Considerations
Accuracy is paramount when completing the CBA Discharge Authority Form. Consider seeking legal counsel to ensure full understanding of implications before signing.
Importance of Accurate Information
Submitting a CBA Discharge Authority Form with incorrect details can significantly delay the discharge or refinance process. Precise loan account numbers, property addresses, and borrower information are crucial. Errors may necessitate form resubmission, extending processing times. Commonwealth Bank relies on this data for verification and legal compliance. Double-check all entries against official loan documentation before signing. Inaccurate solicitor/conveyancer details also cause complications. Ensuring data integrity minimizes potential issues and facilitates a smooth, efficient discharge or refinance experience, protecting all parties involved.
Seeking Legal Advice (Optional)
While completing the CBA Discharge Authority Form is generally straightforward, seeking legal counsel is optional but recommended in complex situations. This is particularly relevant during refinancing with a new lender or if you have concerns about the legal implications of discharging your mortgage. A solicitor can review the form, ensuring accuracy and protecting your interests. They can also clarify any ambiguous clauses or potential risks. Independent legal advice provides peace of mind and safeguards against unforeseen complications during the property transfer or loan settlement process.