Worried, child benefit etc... Un-schooled 16 year old.

[Feminine]

So, to make this quick.
If l had known how things would have been for my eldest in school, l would have home schooled him from the start.
Unfortunately, we can't go back.
Anyway, this year he will take a few token GCSE exams. Afterwards, he wants to be home schooled...more un-schooled really.
I have no idea what to do about tax credits, child benefit. How can l prove he isn't working, and just teaching himself what get needs to know
We don't have a massive income, and we will still need the money to help support him.
The only thing that consoles me, is that he is very good at learning and teaching himself what he wants to know
I am also hugely worried that he won't have anything on paper to give to a prospective employer.
When he did his work experience he did amazingly well, and his 'employers' were more than happy with him.
Although he now "hates the industry" He has a talent for computer/tech Hardware.
So many questions, l have been sticking my head in the sand for ages.
Thank you. :)

Hi

Would you mind making a claim for Child Benefit and TAx Credits as he will be home ed in his final year of compulsory schooling, just not before his 16th birthday.

I know that sounds like an odd request, would you mind banging your head against a brick wall etc.

The reason why I say it is because the All Party Group for Home Education is currently in dialogue with HMRC about this very topic and I have been asked how many claims get refused. I said I didn't know anyone because I tell them they aren't eligible so they don't bother. It is possible that HMRC will look again at the issue of the final year of compulsory schooling rather than the 16th birthday being the cut off point.

Alternatively, if he has been excluded quite a bit, you could conceivably make the case that he was "home educated" while he was excluded...

PM me for more details if you are interested in following this up because I'm not allowed to post links to my website which goes into loads more detail about all this

Hello Fiona.
Yes, l will message you tomorrow.
He has been excluded twice, for two days each time.
I also don't mind speaking to them when the children are back at school next week :)