If you receive tax credits you must tell HMRC about any change to your income by 31 July

HM Revenue & Customs

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is reminding tax credits customers that they need to tell HMRC about any changes in their circumstances or income by Friday 31 July 2020.

Tax credits help working families with targeted financial support, so it is important that people do not miss out on money that they are entitled to.

While most tax credit awards will be renewed automatically in 2020, the self-employed, those in receipt of taxable social security benefit, or those who have other income may need to review their total household income and tell HMRC if the income held is incorrect.

Customers who need to respond to the Annual Review pack will also need to do so by 31 July – or their payments will stop.

HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, Angela MacDonald, said: “During these uncertain times while the UK comes together to combat COVID-19, tax credits payments are a vital source of support for millions of people and their families.

“If you have been contacted by HMRC to provide your income details, I urge you to contact the department before 31 July. Don’t leave it too late, get in touch and make sure the information we hold is correct.”

If any information HMRC holds is incorrect or incomplete, customers may have to pay back any tax credits that have been overpaid. They may also have to pay a penalty.

For help and information on renewing tax credits:

• Visit www.gov.uk/manage-your-tax-credits
• Use the HMRC webchat service www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-revenue-customs/contact/tax-credits-enquiries
• Call the tax credits helpline 0345 300 3900
• Use the HMRC App, available via your phone’s App store