Child Tax Credit

If you are responsible for one or more children under sixteen, or under nineteen if they are in full-time education, you could be entitled to Child Tax Credit. Child Tax Credit is means-tested, that is, it is based on your income and your spouse or civil partner’s income. If your family’s income is less than £58,175 a year, or less than £66,350 if you have children younger than one year old, then you can claim Child Tax Credit. The amount of Child Tax Credit that you receive will depend on the annual income of your family, the age of your children and whether they have any disabilities.

Child Tax Credit is paid in two parts, or elements. The family element is paid to qualifying families and may be up to £545 a year. The child element is paid for each qualifying child in this family and can be up to £1,845 a year. If your circumstances change you must inform the benefit service so that they can adjust your Child Tax Credit accordingly.

If you think that you are eligible to receive Child Tax Credit you can claim using the Tax Credits helpline on 0845 300 3900. You will need to provide your National Insurance number when you call. Child Tax Credit will be paid weekly or four-weekly by direct debit into an account that you nominate. Child Tax Credit will usually be paid to the family’s main childcare provider.