Checking childcare costs

Tax credits customers in Belfast are being asked to check their childcare costs as HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) launches a new campaign to reduce tax credits error and fraud.

Childcare costs claimed through the tax credits system in Northern Ireland are the second highest in the UK. HMRC is looking into claims for the childcare element of Child Tax Credit to check customers’ claims are correct. If you are one of the 15,000 customers in Belfast claiming these costs, then you must let HMRC know immediately if they change in order to avoid a tax credit overpayment, penalty or a possible criminal prosecution.

Paul Gerrard, Director, Benefits and Credits Operations Group, HMRC, said:

“It is the customer’s responsibility to tell HMRC about any change of circumstance that affects their tax credits entitlement and we will work with customers to understand their correct circumstances and eligibility.

“We are reminding customers to contact us about any changes to childcare costs to ensure they receive the correct payment.

“If customers need help or are uncertain about any changes, they should call us for further advice on 0345 300 3900.”

This campaign, which begins on 17 February, will feature a series of local radio and newspaper adverts to raise awareness of the checks.

Notes for editors

1. If you are receiving tax credits, you must tell us if your childcare costs have gone up or down by £10 or more, as this will affect the amount of tax credits we pay you.

2.  Information on reporting any changes is available on our website at

www.hmrc.gov.uk/tax credits/keep-up-to-date/changes-affect/how-when-report.htm.

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

4.  Follow HMRC on Twitter at @hmrcgovuk