Working tax credit is for people who are employed or self-employed (either on their own or in a partnership) who: - Usually work 16 hours or more a week
- Are paid for that work, and
- Expect to work for at least 4 weeks and
- Who are aged 16 or over and responsible for at least one child or
- Are aged 16 or over and disabled or
- Are aged 25 or over and usually work at least 30 hours a week
Couples can apply if both work 16 hours or more or if one works 16 hours or more and the other receives disability benefit.
How much can I get?
The amount of working tax credit paid depends on individual circumstances.
All families with children with income of up to £58,000 a year (or up to £66,000 a year if there is a child under one year old) can claim the credit in the same way.
The childcare element of the working tax credit will provide up to 80% of every pound of approved childcare costs. This is limited to £175 per week for one child and £300 per week for two or more children. Therefore, the maximum childcare costs you can get is:
- £140.00 (£175 x 80%) for one child
- £240.00 (£300 x 80%) for two or more children
How is working tax credit paid?
Working tax credit and child tax credit is paid directly into a bank or building society account.
How to get further information
If you want to find out more about the childcare tax credit:
- Telephone the helpline on 0845 300 3900, between 8am and 8pm, seven days a week
- Textphone the helpline on 0845 300 3900
- Visit any Inland Revenue enquiry centre or a Job Centre Plus office
How to make a claim for working tax credit
- If you are applying for working tax credit for the first time you will need to request a claim pack. These are obtainable from the Inland Revenue on 0800 500 222, between 7am and 11pm, seven days a week