Help - claimed too much maternity

[sugarconfused]

I am self employed.

I realise I should have read the paperwork better, but I thought the 10 Keeping in Touch (KIT) days I am allowed could be made up of small jobs (3 hours on one day, 3 hours on another make one day).

I realised I am wrong. But I told the DWP I was ceasing my maternity on 4 Jan. I now realise it should have been at the end of October. And I have been paid for two months maternity I should not have.

I am happy to pay back the overpayment, but do not want to pay any penalty. Or get in to any trouble of course.

But I am at a loss as to how to approach the DWP and explain my mistake, and sort this mess out.

Can anyone advise please?

 

[littleblonde]

In a situation like this i think you should probably go to citizens advise. Its a honest mistake you have been and hopefully when you approach them they will see that it you trying to sort it. I have noi experience so cant help more.

 

[MrsRH]

phone the DWP directly, they'll help.
they will appreciate your honesty and you won't get penalised.
they find out the error when you do your 2009-2010 tax return so best do it now!
I'm self employed so I know a bit about the tax system and MA
ggod luck
xxx