Brits urged to renew tax credit claims before July deadline

Taxpayers are being reminded to renew their credits ahead of the July 31 deadline.

Those who fail to renew their tax credits in time could see their payments stopped, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) warned.

Alison McDonald, director of benefits and credits, said: “The sooner you renew, the sooner we can check your payments are right.

“You should check your details carefully as any errors you make now could mean you receive less money.”

People who have not received their pack by June 30 should contact the Tax Credit Helpline.

Taxpayers only need to contact HMRC if they receive an annual declaration form as well as an annual review notice. They do not need to contact the tax office if they receive just an annual review notice (as their claim will be renewed automatically), unless their personal circumstances have changed.

Check all the information in the renewal pack, making sure all the changes reported in the last year are included. If anything isn't right, contact the Tax Credit Office.

When contacting the helpline, people should have to hand their National Insurance number, password (if they have one), renewal pack, details of any new changes in circumstances and the amount of their household’s total income for the last tax year.

They should follow the instructions on the form to confirm their claim for last year even if their circumstances have changed and they are no longer eligible for the current year, HMRC said.

Any changes – including bank details – can be made by calling the Tax Credit Helpline on 0345 300 3900, or in writing.

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