I'm really worried!

[AP]

I have no idea what I can be claiming, these online calculator things are a hopeless case for me!

I am on SMP and its about to end. I only get the standard amount, nothing extra from my employer.

I'm not going back to work so I will need to inform them.

But I have a few questions!

• Should I tell tem now or leave it until my SMP finishes(they havent bothered asking when I will be back)
• OH works and makes about 16k. We aready get Child Benefit, what are we missing?

I'm getting so worried as I know that anything we may be entitled to we might be losing money!

 

[littleblonde]

The answer ot the 1st part is you should probably give them whatever your normal period of notice is, as if you working there. I have to give 4 weeks notice. Im intersted in the answer you get for 2nd part as im not going back and my partner earns about the same

 

[littleblonde]

Can you get tax credits or working tax credits? I have no idea how this works but im sure you should be able to claime one of thoses

 

[Tasha]

You will be entitled to child tax credits and some working tax credits. They usually calculate it on both your previous years earnings so you will need to make them aware it is less this year.

 

[Vicks]

I called today about getting tax credits and they are sending me out a claims form. The on-line calculator said we couldn't get them, but the lady I spoke to said we could..
So I'm gonna fill in the form and see what happens.

 

[charlieann]

the advisors on the phone seem to give conflicting info. i applied online (tax credits) and it said i was entitled, phoned them and advisor said i wasnt so i didnt bother. tried again online few months later and again said i was entitled, this time the phone advisor said i was and to include cover letter to get it backdated to birth of LO. i earn more than 16k and recieve them.

as for informing your employer i would contact them to make them aware of your intentions and tell them you will confirm it in writing giving them the required period of notice. that way it wont come as a shock and the can make arrangements for getting a replacement and put it into action when they recieve your letter. although it depends on how well you got along with your employer and wether you would approach them for a reference in the future.

 

[RJ01]

As long as you and DH earn less than 60k per annum you are entitled to child tax credits they go on previous years income but make sure you tell them if your income will increase or decrease in the forthcoming year.
Give tax credit helpline a ring to see if you are entitled to anything and they will send out the forms for you to fill in.

 

[jess_smurf]

apply for child and working tax credit and then see if your entitled to housing benefit too x