Final reminder on tax credit renewals

With the 31 July deadline for renewing tax credits claims only a few days away, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has issued a final reminder - fail to renew and your payments will 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, childcare 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.

Financial Secretary to the Treasury, Stephen Timms, said: "Tax credits provide vital help to six million families across the UK. So if you haven't renewed your claim, it's essential you do so now, so your payments continue."