Child Tax Credit

Child Tax Credit provides support for families and carers responsible for at least one child or young person and is paid in addition to any Child Benefit you might be receiving. And remember, you can claim Child Tax Credit even if you are not working.

If a child lives with you part-time, you may also be able to claim.  For more information please call them on 0845 300 3900. 

Am I eligible?

In order to claim Child Tax Credit, you must responsible for:

* Any child under the age of 16
* Any young person aged 16 but under the age of 20 in full-time education (including 'A' Levels, NVQ 3 or Scottish Highers)
* Any young person aged 16 or 17 who has left full-time education, works less than 24 hours a week or has had a paid training place and has registered with Careers Service, Connexions Service or equivalent.

The amount you may receive also depends on other factors such as your income, the number of children you are responsible for, and if any of the children have a disability.

Example
A family with 2 children over the age of one could receive Child Tax Credit with a family income of up to a maximum of £57,785 per year. If you have a child under the age of one you could receive Child Tax Credit with a family income up to £65,965 per year.  And remember, you do not have to be a parent to claim - anyone who is mainly responsible for a child may receive Child Tax Credit. 

How much can I get?

The amount of Child Tax Credit you receive is dependant on various elements, including your income and any child disabilities.

The payment is made up of two elements:

* A family element paid to any family with at least one child and worth up to £545 (2007-2008 tax year)
* A child element paid for each child in the family and worth up to £1,845 (2007-2008 tax year)

And remember, Child Tax Credit will be paid in addition to any Child Benefit you receive.

Working Tax Credit

Nine out of ten families with children can get tax credits, but you don't need children to qualify for Working Tax Credit. If you have a low income level, work 16 or more hours a week, and are employed or self-employed, you can qualify for Working Tax Credits. Extra help is available for those of you working 30 or more hours per week, have a disability, or are aged 50 or over and returning to work after a period on benefit.

Working Tax Credit provides added financial support for workers on a low income (whether employed or self-employed). It is paid directly into your bank account and can be claimed even if you do not have any children.

Am I eligible?

To claim Working Tax Credit, you must be aged 25 or over and work at least 30 hours per week. However, you may also be eligible if one of the following apply:

* You are aged 16 or over, responsible for at least one child or qualifying young person and usually work at least 16 hours per week
* You are aged 16 or over, work 16 or more hours a week and have a disability that puts you in a disadvantage of getting a job
* You are 50 or over and returning to work after a period on benefit

Volunteer workers are not eligible to apply.

How much can I get?

The amount you can receive is dependant on various elements, including your income, whether you have a disability and any amount of childcare you may pay. To find out how much you are entitled to, give them a call on 0845 300 3900.

Who do I contact to get more information?

The Child Tax Credit system is looked after by the HM Revenue and Customs.

Helpline
0845 300 3900

Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday 8.00 am to 8.00 pm  

Website
http://taxcredits.direct.gov.uk/faq.html

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