Singe parent working hours in relation to tax credits?

[OctoberMoon]

Hi,

I just wanted to clear something up.

I'm a single parent, working 16 hours a week. My DD will start school in September. I currently work 2 full days as I have to for childcare purposes (private nursery) and as from September I will work 4 days a week for 3 hours, and 1 day a week for 4 hours to fit in with school hours.

I can't work anymore hours as there's no more hours available, no over time etc..

Will my tax credits be affected? Do I have to work more than 16 hours as a single parent with a child in full time school?

When Universal credit comes into play, do you know if I will need to work more hours then? I'm getting worried as I rely on my tax credits (only receive WTC & CTC, no housing benefit or other benefits)

Thanks.

At the moment you are ok to stay on 16 hours. I have a friend who has one 13 year old DS and she still only does 16 hours whilst still getting all her WTC& CTC top ups. However things may change with UC. I think once your child turns 12 but will be 30 hours but not sure what it will be for kids aged between 5 and 12, possibly will remain at 16 ot chance to 24.

I understand, with UC, that it will be possible to work fewer than 16 hours without there being a hash cut-off in the award. It will be tapered