Confused about WTC and claiming for the cost of childcare. Can you help?

[Caramelbutthorn]

Hi all,

Apologies for asking what I am sure is a stupid question...

I am a lone parent with no financial support from the ex, trying to work out what is best for me to do financially but am confused about childcare costs.

I've read that I can claim up to £175 per week in child care costs.
I also know that I can claim WTC if / when I go back to work.

My questions are:-

How do I claim for child care costs
Do I have to go to a particular provider for this?
and the £175/week for childcare, is this in addition to the WTC or instead of it?

Thank you all for your help,

C xx

You claim for child care costs as part of your wtc claim.
You have to use a registered childcare provider, not just your mum or friend.
The childcare element of wtc is in addition to any wtc you are already eligible for.

Hth

Btw, you can only claim up to 70% of your costs, so if you were paying out £100 per week in childcare you would only get £70 back, even though your costs are under £175

When you apply for tax credits they will ask you about childcare and childcare costs, any childcare will need to be ofsted registered whether thats a childminder or nursery. You will need the ofsted number to give them.

If its just you and your baby you may get child tax credits as well, mind you I've been getting tax credits for 7yrs now and still get confused by them!!

Just fill in the forms as honestly as you can and they will tell you what money they will give you!!

Thank you so much, you have all been great x