how can I find out about tax credits

[whataboutbob]

I am thinking of giving up work, chiefly because of exhaustion. Over the last 5 years I have supported my dad with his dementia, my bro with his mental illness, and have 2 kids (7 and 11). I work 4 days a week and recently being off sick for 2 days I realise how very tired i am.
Anyway, I have been the main breadwinner and DH brings in about £1100 a month. I like to think we'd get tax credits, but haven't had any for years and I think they are a lot less generous than they used to be. I might also get carers allowance if I spend 35 hours a week at Dad's house (but honestly not sure i can face that).
Where can i find out what we'd get as a family? I don't think I'd apply for jobseekers because I wouldn't be looking for a job, more like taking a one year break between jobs. Thanks

Hi, pls check on gov.uk, you can do a tax credits calculation, or a good website is "entitled to ", good luck:)

Or get in touch with your local CAB - they should do a full benefits check for you and discuss the ins and outs of claiming Carers Allowance etc.

Sorry, wished you "good luck" in my head but forgot to add it to the post....

Carers allowance is at least 35 hours caring for a week so doing washing, shopping, paperwork, cooking etc counts as well as in the company of.

Are you now likely to be claiming universal credit not tax credit as it would be a new claim?

If so try this. It depends where you are. Beware it was muttered about at the conservative conference that they were pushing for full role out Feb15. Unlikely but something is going to be changing over the next few years.

Thanks guys. I think the CAB is an excellent idea. Not sure what universal credit is, let's hope it's not a cut in disguise!

For 2 children the threshold for child tax credits is £32k, so if your husband earns less than this you will get some tax credits . However your entitlement for this tax year (2014-15) will depend how much you have already earnt between you from April until whenever you leave work. If you have already earnt £32k between you, I doubt you will get anything. However from next April you would estimate your lower household income and should get some help.

Thals babyroobs that is a good point maybe I should reckon to work till end of March