Tax & Benefits

Tax Credits

How to claim child tax credit and working tax credits, renew or appeal

Tax credits can mean a payout, potentially in the £1,000s, even after recent cuts. Unlike many other benefits, you MUST renew them each year. Most people will now have to claim universal credit, but some can still make new child tax credit claims.

Council Tax Bands

Lower your band & save £1,000s

The average council tax bill in England is rising by an average of 4.7% this year, so now more than ever, it's worth checking if you're in one of up to 400,000 households in England and Scotland who have overpaid.

Grant Grabbing

Free income support grants to boost your income

If you're struggling on a low income, there's a lot more cash out there to help than you may think. Charities, the Government and even companies often have funds which are available to help, especially if you've got children.

New State Pension

For those reaching state pension age on or after 6 April 2016

The state pension saw a big change in 2016. While the Government's aim has been to make the system fairer for all and easier to understand, it can still be a minefield – and some people have lost out from the overhaul.

Stamp Duty Calculator

Plus full Q&A on stamp duty land tax

The pace of house price rises may have slowed in recent months, but more and more homebuyers are having to pay stamp duty land tax, though what exact rate you pay depends on the property’s price. For some first-time buyers – including shared ownership – stamp duty has been abolished.

Top Charity Giving Sites

Choose the best fundraising site

When running the marathon in a gorilla suit, or climbing the three peaks for charity, many people pick the best-known sites JustGiving or Virgin Money Giving to host their page. But it's worth doing your homework, as the amount your charity will get varies depending on the site.

Tax-Free Childcare

Government scheme gives you up to £2,000 per child

Tax-Free Childcare gives eligible families up to £2,000 a year per child towards childcare costs, for free. In this guide we explain all about the somewhat inaccurately named scheme, which replaced Childcare Vouchers and launched in April 2017. Plus we show what other state help there is, and how it compares if you're still on vouchers (which are closed to new sign-ups). 

Concentrix tax credits help – how to appeal

Thousands have had their tax credits cut by Concentrix, the controversial contractor hired by HM Revenue & Customs – and more than 70% of those who've appealed have had payments restored. Here's what to do if you're affected...