Need to move on - don't know how.

[ageingdisgracefully]

I need to move on from my DP after 28 years. We have a DD, 9. I live in his house. I am not on the deeds.

I work part-time on a self-employed basis. I do not have a regular enough income to get a residential mortgage at the moment, but I have two properties, both of which are currently let. I have a substantial amount of equity in one of them.

He recently lost his job and used his redundancy money to set up a franchise, which is not yet making money. He has applied for and been turned down for tax credits on the grounds that he was in a well-paid job last year. He's appealing. The only income we have at the moment is from whatever I earn(peanuts), some investments of mine and the rental income from my properties.

I haven't a clue what to do for the best. He is not in a position to support DD and refuses to help me with childcare so I can do more work.

Should I move out? Or would it be better to stay (providing he'll let me) and tolerate the situation until things improve? Help!!

Surely if he is unemployed he is in a position to support your DD i.e. SAHD - childcare whilst you earn money...

caramel - he owns a business which is relatively new and not making any money. Actually, hadn't thought about HIM becoming a SAHD!!

Oh yes. Apologies.

It is an option - one that peole do tend to overlook.

Could you give tenants notice on one of the properties and move in to it?

Are you married? (would you have to give him any money?)

Hello again caramel. No, we are not married. I have thought seriously about moving back into one of the properties but I am not sure about the financial implications. I would lose the income, and I'm not sure if I would be entitled to anything from the state. I've never claimed benefits or tax credits or anything and don't understand the system. I am wondering if the state would support me, how much I could work, whether the state would continue to support DP etc. Sorry to be so thick!!

Assuming you are in UK.

Go to the website - entitledto - this will give you information on Grants and Benefits.

Given the information you have provided I would say that assuming you move in to the property (losing the rental income), remain working at your current level and having your child live with you, you would qualify to apply for Child Tax Credits, Working Tax Credits, a reduced Council Tax rate (75% of full rate), Grants to assist in heating/insulating your home and perhaps Free Precriptions. Also help with childcare costs.

Have a look at the Gingerbread website.

Maximising your income would be your priority so look at where your nearest Women's Business Link offices are.
Find out when your nearest Entrepreneur Networking events are held.

Good luck with everything.

caramel - that's fantastic advice. Thanks very much indeed - I fell better already!!