What are tax credits?

Tax credits are payments from the government. There are two types of tax credit. If you're responsible for at least one child or young person, you may qualify for Child Tax Credit. If you work, but are on a low income, you may qualify for Working Tax Credit which can also provide help with childcare costs.

You can often get both types of tax credits, they are administered and paid together and there is one claim form. They aren't taxable.

Can I get tax credits?

You can no longer make a new claim for tax credits but if you are claiming one tax credit (child tax credit or working tax credit) you can still add on the other if you become newly eligible for it.

If you tell us which tax credit/s you currently receive we will work out what you are entitled to and how much you might be able to claim.

The amount of income you (and your partner) can have and still be entitled to tax credits varies depending on your circumstances.

To find out more about how the system works, including the difference between an ‘initial’ and a ‘final’ award, go to how tax credits work.

You can claim Child Tax Credit if you have an eligible child. For more information see children.

You can claim Working Tax Credit if you meet the age and work hours rules. For more information see Working Tax Credit.

How do I claim?

You can no longer make a new claim for tax credits but if you are claiming one tax credit (child tax credit or working tax credit) you can still add on the other if you become newly eligible for it.

Tax credits are administered by HM Revenue & Customs. You can report a change of circumstance by calling the helpline on 0345 300 3900 (textphone 0345 300 3909) or using the HMRC app. The phone line is open every day from 8.00 am to 8.00 pm. 

If you are already claiming tax credits you need to renew your award annually. You may also need to tell HM Revenue & Customs about changes during the year, which you must do within 1 month of the change. For more information see changes of circumstance. If you are already subject to an adjustment from previous years please find out more about tax credit overpayments.