Soooooo confused about benefits, tax credits etc.....

[LuckyOwl28]

We're expecting our first baby in April, and I have no idea about what we're entitled to, how we start the process and at what stage to do this.

Is it something I need to start doing now, can someone suggest the easiest way to do this?

Thanks in advance!

Tax credits and child benefit is claimed after the baby is born however you can look online for a benefits calculator and that will tell you how much you will be entitled to.

If your already on benefits or have a low wage you can claim housing benefit but won't be entitled to the 2 bed rate until baby is born.

If your on benefits then you can claim for healthy start vouchers (I think you can claim for them now and then you get more each month when baby arrives)

Congratulations by the way

That's really helpful, thanks!

Congratulations to you too! x

You'll need a copy of little ones birth certificate to apply so get him/her registered as soon as possible, the child benefit paperwork comes in the new baby bounty pack you get in hospital.

Your welcome! x

Just to clarify for you, it's possible to get the child benefit application form without the Bounty pack - you may decide not to get that as you don't want the hassle of the bombardment of emails & post. Some people disagree with them ethically, unhappy that a commercial company has exclusive access to NHS patients at a time they may be quite vulnerable. Of course, many other people loved their Bounty packs and other services they offered. Anyway, one way to get hold of the CB application form is via HMRC website. This page contains a link to an application you can complete on screen, then print it off to post to them.

Have you looked at the direct.gov.uk website? Lots of info there.