New online help for tax credit claimants

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has launched a series of new online videos to help tax credit claimants through the annual renewal process.Every year, claimants must renew their tax credit awards by 31 July, or their payments stop.

The interactive, bite-sized videos take viewers through the renewal process step-by-step, offering the chance to tailor the help to their own circumstances. The videos cover key areas such as: checking the accuracy of the information in your renewals pack; notifying HMRC of any changes in circumstances you haven't already reported during the year; and providing details of your previous year's income.

The videos are available - as well as lots of other help and information on tax credit renewals - from the DirectGov website at direct.gov.uk/renewyourtaxcredits.

HMRC's Director of Benefits and Credits, Steve Lamey, said: "These new videos are a great way of getting help and advice on renewing your tax credits, and should be able to answer any questions you may have about the renewals process.

"Once you've received your pack, please don't put it off - renew straight away. The sooner you renew, the sooner we can make sure you're receiving the right money."