Tax Credits overpayment advice pls

Legacy_user

I wonder if any of you can help pls.

My ex husband and I had a joint claim for tax credits. In July 2009 we split up, however we were hoping to be able to resolve our differences but in October 2009, we decided we were not getting back together. This is when I called Tax Credits and advised them of this change in circumstance.

Recently I have had correspondance from the Tax Credits office telling me that there is an overpayment of almost £4000. I have checked with them and they have told me that this is because my single claim was backdated to July 2009 but I had already received payments on my joint claim until October 2009. I asked them why they did not deduct the amount paid from my new claim but they don't seem to have an answer for this.

I have asked for a dispute form but is there any point in disputing this or should I just make an arrangement to pay? They are telling me I am responsible for half and my ex husband for the other half.

Thank you.

Telfordstar

Id still dispute untill you get an answer

lorelai34

You are only responsible for half of the overpayment. Your new single claim was backdated so you have effectively been paid twice for the same period. The reason they wouldn't have taken it from your new claim is because they wouldn't have been able to as they are 2 completely separate claims.