Childcare element - help needed!

[marshmy]

Hello, i've just realised i'm able to claim money for my daughters childcare fees, i thought this was only when they're two but a friend told me today that i can get up to 70% of them, which is great news as i'm really struggling at the moment.

I have phoned the tax credits office and applied, just have to wait now for a letter. My question is, will it be back paid from when i started paying childcare costs? This was in June. Or will it just start from when i've applied? Either is great for me! It's just a question i forgot to ask on the phone!

It's from the date that you started the claim

Also you'll probably receive a payment before the award letter so keep an eye on your bank.

Remember to report any changes or you'll end up with issues

Their online system is good and updates quickly so I'd recommend opening an account on there

They backdate by up to 31 days, as long as you met the conditions to qualify for the payments during that 31 day period.

Definitely sign up to manage your claim online, it's a really good service!

so will it be from the day i started the claim or a month before? i definitely qualify for it, they said that on the phone

hopeful bump

A month before
www.gov.uk/claim-tax-credits/backdate-a-claim