Mumsnet Talk

I am a lone parent and work as a self employed childminder. The little boy I look after has decreased his hours considerably because Mum will be better off working 16 hours and claiming benefits, I have no problem with this.

The problem I have is that my earnings have now dropped and I am going to struggle, I have rung the benefits but am getting nowhere. Can anyone advise if I would be able to get any help. I am hoping it is only temp. until I get another child to look after.

It would all depend on your income level.

My income has dropped dramatically now but I have never earned enough to pay tax.

As a self employed business you can apply for housing benefit, Child tax credits and i think WTC.

Thanks Valar I get child tax credits and wtc not been in touch yet to see if they can be increased (busy with OFSTED inspection) don't think I can get housing benefit because I have mortgage at least that what I was told a couple of years ago.

Valar just seen your thread about benefits and noticed can claim housing benefits for mortgages so will look into this, now going to read rest of your thread.
Thanks

Have you run your details through the Turn2Us Online Benefits Calculator? That's a very good resource, as is the DirectGov website for information

Well I will be very interested in seeing the documentary! The US are not too generous and most people have a good work ethic.