Child Tax Credit - Are You Eligible and How Much Can You Claim

Child Tax Credit - Are You Eligible And How Much Can You Claim?

In the hectic world today, raising kids is often difficult, particularly when money is tight. Kids are constantly needing something, whether it's sporting equipment or clothes. Managing to find enough money can be just about impossible at times. However, there are government benefits available to low income and struggling households that may help alleviate the burden in these circumstances.

One such government benefit is the Child Tax Credit, which was intended and created in order to give aid to parents and carers of college students and school age children to make certain that children have the things they need. This has proved to be extremely helpful to low income households that have kids below the age of 16 or a young person that is still in full-time education.

This particular Tax Credit is based upon the number of children in your household and also considers the total household earnings. As well as getting an overall tax credit for the family, you can also claim a specified amount ofchild benefit for every child that is living in your care. You don't have to be related to the child or children, but you do have to be the primary carer and the children must be living in your house.

Claiming the Child Tax Credit is very simple. When you first apply, you are going to need to order a claim pack. You will also have to provide proof of your identity, which can be as simple as providing your national insurance number. Once you're approved, your Child Tax Credit can be renewed by mail or telephone. This must be done each year and you will be notified when it's time for you to renew. It's critical that you remember to report any changes in your circumstances such as any changes in income and family size. If you fail to report a change, you might need to pay back the tax credits that you have received.

You can receive Child Tax Credits in a number of different ways. You can have the child allowance paid on a weekly or monthly basis, and it can be placed in any bank account that you indicate. The Child Tax Credit must be transferred to the primary carer's bank account and can come as a cheque, which is sent to the address on your application. The child benefit may be claimed in addition to the Working Tax Credit, a benefit entitlement if either you or your partner are working.

If you get denied these benefits, or do not agree with the calculation of your tax credit, you could appeal against a tax credit decision. However, keep in mind that this must be done within 30 days of the notification of denial.

Evan Felt is a content writer for http://www.uk-benefits.org who researches benefit and support programs available to UK citizens. Find important advice and information on child benefits, as well as UK grants, allowances and other benefits.