Tax credits when I move in with my mum

[marathonrunner]

I am moving to a new city with my son and my mum is coming too. We will all be living together for 2 years. This is because it is the only way that I can save the money for a deposit to buy a house of my own plus mum needs to save more for a house as the money from the sale of her house isn't enough to buy a house outright in the city we are moving to.

Anyway, when it comes to claiming my tax credits, how will this affect them? I know they ask about last years money and I was a student then so my income that they count was nil but now I'm living with mum who earns, will that affect anything?? Currently, I'm not working but have applied for several jobs so hope to be working soon. Do I have to tell them we are living together?? The last thing I want is to be accused of fraud.

Turn2Us Benefits Calculator isn't a bad place to get answers to your questions. Living with your mum does affect the potential benefits available and if you complete the questionnaire together you should be able to see by how much. When you go on the electoral roll, for example, your mum will no longer qualify for the single person council tax discount. Tax Credit awards are based on the previous year's income but, if your circumstances change a lot, you have to contact them for a reassessment. Obviously wait until you have a job before letting them know.

whatever you do, be honest