Trouble in stopping child tax credit

tomorrow_2

Hello, I left England to move abroad with my child last year. I've moved out from a council flat, where I was receiving benefits.
They stopped my child income support, specially because I didn't attend the periodic appointment, but still they didn't stop paying into my account the 70 pounds Child Tax Credit. How come?
I feel guilty but if I contact the office will they charge me with a penalty? What is the best thing to do? How come they haven't realized it?

Thanks for any advice.

Indie_Kid

Did you contact the office before you left?

tomorrow_2

I didn't as I thought it was going to be automatic after giving up benefits and not going to the child benefits interview. What is the best to do now? I know it is my mistake.

shell_542

Have you kept the money separate and not spent it? You will probably be asked to pay it back as it is an overpayment.

Caz3121

have you received the child benefit too - you will need to tell them and pay back everything they have paid you whilst you did not qualify...did they only stop your IS as you did not turn up for an appointment? how long before you leaving and the appointment? you may have an overpayment there too