Record 500,000 people renew tax credits online

More than half a million people have renewed their tax credits online, 278,000 more than at the same time last year.

However, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is warning people who haven’t renewed that their payments might stop if they don’t do so before the 31 July deadline.

This year, everyone can renew their tax credits online using HMRC’s new, simple and quick online service. More than 540,000 claimants have renewed using the online service, which now takes less than 10 minutes on average, with satisfaction rates reaching 90 per cent.

Nick Lodge, HMRC’s Director General, Benefits and Credits, said:

"This year, everyone can renew their tax credits online at a time to suit them. This secure online service is quick and easy.

“So far, more than 2.3 million claimants have renewed their tax credits or reported changes. Anybody who needs to renew should take action now and go online.”

During the whole renewals period last year, 409,000 people renewed their tax credits and reported changes online.

Notes for editors

1.People can renew their tax credits claim online, at any time and from any device, online at GOV.UK: https://www.gov.uk/renewtaxcredits

2.Tax credits claimants can get help and information on tax credits renewals:

• On GOV.UK athttps://www.gov.uk/browse/benefits/tax-credits
• By tweeting@HMRCcustomerswith their general queries
• By calling the tax credits helpline: 0345 300 3900

3.Follow HMRC’s press office on Twitter @HMRCpressoffice

4.HMRC’s Flickr channel: www.flickr.com/hmrcgovuk