Child tax credits during lockdown (no childcare costs)

[HyperStella]

I am not paying for childcare during lockdown as the childminder is shut, so do I need to tell child tax credits this? I know we’re supposed to tell them of any changes over £10/week but I assume everyone is in the same boat and the Child Tax Credit people are aware of this?

They have an online chat facility. I would ask them on that.

I would ask to be on the safe side. I don't pay childcare costs but I'm on furlough so my wage has gone down to below the threshold for working tax credits. When I asked they said it was fine and my working tax credits wouldn't change.

If you're unsure hang onto the money you would usually spend on childcare in case you have to pay it back. I have a funny feeling that next tax year a lot of us might be hit with charges for over claiming.

Assuming that you also get Working Tax Credits (which includes an element for childcare costs), you should notify them - ideally online as it will be quicker but if not then call the helpline.

If you just got Child Tax Credits (which are paid to people with children whether or not they work) you wouldn't get help with childcare costs.

I was told to keep paying the childcare element of my tax credits to my childcare provider.
I used the online chat on HMRC

I told them and they have stopped my payments. Would rather that than owe them loads after .