Attention all experts of Child tax credits

[Fran1]

I've been trying to work out what my next years entitlements will be for child tax credits (as i had mine stopped a few months ago because they decided they had been paying us too much and i'm missing it bad!!!)

When you do the online form to find out your entitlements does that just tell you what you'd get between now and April if you are just applying?

And also, i noticed that to get the childcare element it says both parents have to be working over 16 hours a week. I work 15 hours a week and dp works fulltime so i guess we're not eligible??? Could i ask my employer to change my contract so that i do 16 hrs, and offer to work the additional hour for free so that i can be entitled to it? Or would the inland revenue be flexible?

Sorry for all the questions, just desperately trying to work out our finances for the next year as we have really struggled this year.

[colditzmum]

I'm no expert, but I found the website unhelpful. You are better off ringing someone on the helpline.

The Inland Revenue are not flexible usually, they are noted for it!

If you are contracted for 16 hours, they will pay the childcare element, and if your employer will do this, it may work.

Out of interest, my partner and I both work 30 hours a week, do we get a set amount of help for the childcare or does it depend on income? We don't use any childcare at the moment, but I'm thinking about it as we are very tired from always working opposite shifts!

[Fran1]

Thanks,

I think the amount that they pay varies on income and the amount that you actually pay towards childcare.

I hate the system because if my employer is unable to change my contract, i would be tempted to give up work after baby no. 2 (ttc at mo) as for the small amount of money i'd take home it wouldn't be worth it. I'd probably actually be better off if i considered that traveling costs, and work clothes costs, lunches out etc etc!

I really feel for single mums who want to get back to work but can't because of the crap crap crap benefits system we have in this country!

Phew!! sorry about that rant, but i feel better now!