Tax credit - how much trouble?

[applejumble]

5 months ago I completely changed job and moved house after my relationship almost broke down. I was also going through a cancer diagnosis. I forgot to tell tax credits about my change in circumstances - I had an employment gap of about 6 weeks - and my income went up. I’m on the phone now on hold waiting to beg for forgiveness/ offer to pay any overpayment back. But I’m really worried about it. How much trouble could I be in?

Don't you get a 6 week run on with tax credits?

I don’t know but after being on hold for 40 minutes I’m getting more and more jittery

Generally i think if you've owned up to it and you are willing to make a realistic plan to pay it back you'll be ok.

I wouldn't stress about it.. I didn't realise I had to tell them.i was getting a widows pension..I.assumed as I paid tax on it they would figure it out

They did at the end of the tax year and told me owed them.a ridiculous amt..I was advised by a friend to say I can.pay it back at whatever amount i was comfortable wuth

It doesn't show on your credit score and so long as you are paying them. Something

I am still paying them.3 years later £20 a month no interest..

You will be fine

Thanks. I didn’t owe them much and they are just going to deduct it from my next payments. Will be a good reminder not to be so scatty