Tax credit question (yes another!)

[EnglishGirlApproximately]

We applied for tax credits for DS and gave information about last years income. We have been awarded nothing because our income went just over the limit for 2011/2012. However, our income this year will be much lower as I started maternity leave in March and only get SMP. I was the highest earner so our current income is substantially down on last year. At the end of my maternity leave in December I plan to go part time so even when that happens we will still be below the earnings limit.

Will they reconsider my claim based on this or is it purely on last years earnings?

If you ring them, they will do an in-year assessment (this is what we had to do when I went on maternity leave) and you just estimate how much you will earn. Just be aware that if you earn more than your estimate you will end up oweing them money! I slightly under estimated ours, and just got £400 lump sum with the renewal :)

Thanks rockchick - it did seem illogical that the award would be based on when there were 2 full time incomes rather than now when we're skint! I guess the best thing to do would be to work it out as though I'm going back full time then when I do (hopefully) reduce my hours I can let them know.

I wanted to check before I put myself through the torture of the tax credits helpline!