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Families and individuals currently receiving tax credits are being reminded that they need to renew their claims by 31 July – otherwise their payments could stop.

Renewing is simple – claimants need to check the information in the renewals pack they’ve been sent, and let HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) know if their circumstances have changed, such as working hours, child care costs or pay. They must also provide details of their previous year’s income, so HMRC can check they are receiving all the tax credits they’re entitled to.

To complete the forms, claimants will need relevant information to hand, such as childcare details and, if they’re employed, payslips and their end-of-year P60 form.

And after renewing, claimants should make sure they let HMRC know about any subsequent changes in their circumstances, as soon as they happen.

HMRC’s Director of Benefits and Credits, Richard Summersgill, said:
 
“It’s important that anyone currently claiming tax credits renews their claim by 31 July, or their money could stop. Don’t leave it to the last minute – renew now and avoid a last-minute rush.”

Claimants on “nil awards”, and those receiving only the full family element of Child Tax Credit, will just receive the statement of their 2008/09 award. If these details are correct, no further action is needed, and their claims are automatically renewed. However, if the details on the award statement are wrong, they must tell HMRC. 

For further information on tax credits, see the HMRC website at www.hmrc.gov.uk/taxcredits, or call the tax credits helpline on 0845 300 3900, which is available from 8.00am to 8.00pm, seven days a week.