Tax credits - the basics

Half day

Background

Low-income families are still not claiming the tax credits to which they are entitled because they fear the system will leave them with overpayments they can’t pay back. However, with the right advice, claiming tax credits can lift families and disabled people out of poverty and help a return to work.

Aims

To provide a basic overview of the child tax credit and working tax credit system.

To enable you to provide basic advice and promote awareness of tax credits.

Contents

• How to spot entitlement
• How to claim
• How to deal with changes in circumstances
• How tax credits affect other benefits
• How to deal with overpayments

Suitable for

Anyone who deals with people on low incomes and needs to gain a basic understanding of the tax credit system.

No prior knowledge required.

What participants said last year

"Very well presented”

“I feel more equipped to deal with tax credits, give advice and identify possible claims”

“Challenging overpayments, making complaints, and eligibility for tax credits all very useful"

This page was last updated on 4 October 2009