Child Tax Credit is designed to assist with the costs of bringing up children. You do not have to be in work to claim Child Tax Credit which is paid directly to the main carer and it does not affect your child benefit. All parents with one or more children under 16 and with a gross family income of less than £58,000 per annum are entitled to some Child Tax Credit; and this could be used to support the cost of childcare.
Child Tax Credit consists of a number of elements. The maximum value of each element (2006 to 2007 tax year) is listed below however the amount you get depends on your income.
- Family Element - paid because you have one or more children - up to £10.45 a week (£545 per annum)
- Baby Element - paid if you have a child under 1 year - up to £10.45 a week (£545 per annum)
- Child Element - paid for each child in your family - up to £33.94 a week (£1,765 per annum)
- Disabled Child Element - paid if you have a child who receives Disability Living Allowance up to £45.19 a week (£2,350 per annum)
- Enhanced Disabled Child Element - paid if you have a child who receives the higher element of Disability Living Allowance - up to £18.17 a week (£945 per annum)
How do I apply?
For an application form:
- phone the Working Tax Credit/Child Tax Credit Helpline on 0845 300 3900 (textphone 0845 300 3909). Lines are open from 8am - 8pm seven days a week.
- visit your local Job Centre Plus, Social Security Office or HMRC Enquiry Centre. Staff will be able to help you with the application.
Useful Links
Find your local:
Directgov - widest range of government information and services online:
HM Revenue & Customs
