What are Child Tax Credits?
Child Tax Credits are payments made to people who are responsible for bringing up children. They are paid by HMRC and count as tax-free income.
If you have a child or children, you may qualify for Child Tax Credits if you (and your partner if you have one) earn less than a certain amount which is currently £41300.
Important to know:
If your circumstances change tell the Child Tax Credit office as soon as possible. Telling the Child Tax Credit Office of any changes will make sure you receive what you should. If you do not inform the Child Tax Credit Office you might not receive as much as you should, or receive too much. If you receive too much you will have to repay any child tax credit you have received in error, unless it is the fault of HMRC.
You may be eligible for Child Tax Credits if you have a child or children aged 16 or under. You may also be eligible if you have a child or children aged 19 or under and on certain education or training courses.
Can I get Child Tax Credits to pay for childcare?
Yes, and the average payment for childcare on its own is over £3000!
If you work more than 16 hours a week, you can usually claim extra Child Tax Credits to pay for childcare. This childcare must be given by an approved provider, such as a registered childminder or nursery. This may include a childminder or nanny who visits your home.
What if I adopt or foster a child, or look after a child for somebody else?
You can claim Child Tax Credits if you foster or adopt a child, but only if the local authority does not pay you for the child’s care.
If you have responsibility for someone else’s child, perhaps because they are away or unwell, you may be able to claim Child Tax Credits if the child usually lives with you.
My child is disabled. Can I get extra Child Tax Credits?
If you have responsibility for a child who is disabled you may be able to claim extra Child Tax Credits.
This includes children who have Disability Living Allowance paid for them, and children who are or have recently been registered blind. The value of extra Child Tax Credits you receive will be calculated according to how much care your child needs.
For further Tax Credits information, please follow the links below:
- Tax Credits includes:
What are tax credits?
Who qualifies for tax credits?
How do I claim tax credits?
How are tax credits paid? Tax Credit Problems and Appeals includes:
Can I be overpaid Tax Credits?
I have been overpaid, what should I do?
Do I have to repay an overpayment of Tax Credits?
I don’t agree with HMRC, what should I do?
