Tax credits claimants reminded to renew it or lose it

3 Jun 2014 11:05 AM

Tax credits customers are being prompted, through an advertising campaign launched today, to renew their claim now.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is sending out 5.8 million tax credits renewals packs which will arrive by 30 June. Over 3 million of these claims need to be renewed before the deadline for claimants to continue receiving tax credits. Last year some 650,000 claimants had their money stopped because they did not renew by the 31 July deadline.

Claimants must tell HMRC about any changes to their circumstances that they haven’t already reported, including changes to working hours, childcare costs and income, or if a partner has moved in.

This year, as well as being able to renew by post and by phone, claimants with no changes to report are also able to renew online, via GOV.UK.

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

People should check their details and renew early to make sure they get the right money. Don’t leave it – people who don’t renew on time risk losing their payments.

Before checking their form or calling HMRC’s Tax Credit Helpline, claimants are urged to have the right documents to hand, for example, payslips, end of year P60 forms and childcare payment details.

The advertising campaign runs throughout June and July on radio, television, bus shelters, and via a mobile app, Spotify and video on demand.