Look out for tax credits renewals packs

People can renew their tax credits claim online, at any time and from any device

Around 2.5 million tax credit renewal packs are being sent out to claimants by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

The packs will be sent out over the next six weeks and all recipients should receive theirs by 4 June.

It is important that you check the details contained in your annual renewal pack are correct, including income details and report any change in circumstances to HMRC.

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

If there is a change in circumstances that could affect your tax credits claim, you must report the changes to HMRC. This includes changes to: living arrangements; childcare; working hours, or income (increase or decrease).

You do not need to report any temporary falls in working hours as a result of coronavirus. Those affected will be treated as if they are working their normal hours until the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme closes.

Renewing online is quick and easy: log into GOV.UK to check on the progress of your renewal, know it is being processed and know when you will hear back from HMRC.

You can also use the HMRC app on your smartphone to renew tax credits; check your tax credits payments schedule, and find out how much you have earned for the year.

Criminals can take advantage of tax credits renewals to text, email or phone taxpayers offering ‘rebates’ or threatening them with arrest if they don’t pay bogus tax owed. Many scams mimic government messages to look authentic.

If someone contacts a customer claiming to be from HMRC, asks for bank or other personal details, threatens arrest or demands that they transfer money, it might be a scam. Check GOV.UK for HMRC’s scams checklist, and to find out how to report tax scams and recognise genuine HMRC contact.