Childcare costs shift work

[CinnamonPreztel]

Not sure if this is really the right place to be posting. My ds is starting school next week and I'm unsure what to do regarding before and after school clubs. I live with my mum, and between us we will share picking up and dropping off ds at before/after clubs. However, my mum works shifts and although we know a month in advance what they will be I'm concerned about how this will effect tax credits.

The child care provider has been understanding and as long as we give a weeks notice ds can have flexible access to the club. But some days we won't need it, others we'll need mornings, sometimes afternoons, sometimes both... This makes it very hard to calculate weekly child care costs, or even an average. I'm concerned I will get calculations wrong and end up being overpaid by tax credits and receiving a letter saying I owe thousands in April.

Any advice? :S Thank you in advance!

I think you are extremely lucky to have a flexible childcare provider. All you can do is guess really, but remember to factor in holiday care too. If you find after a couple of months you have greatly over or underestimated the cost, then call the tax credit people. I have been advised to actually send copies of invoices in if there is a change, but mine is changing due to going on mat leave so cutting hours.

Money matters may be a better place for this.

Thanks :) Yes I know very lucky the lady I spoke to was understanding. Will post in Money Matters too!