WTC + HB: Going From Single to Couple

[Deleted User]

Hi folks

I currently live on my own and receive tax credits. I also get the disabled element, due to receiving DLA at the lower rate. I am self-employed.

My boyfriend is considering moving in. He'll be working full-time. His salary will be under £20k.

I understand that my WTC claim would close and that we'll need to make a joint claim. And that's all I know! I'm depending on WTC to live on, as my self-employment is new and I am finding my feet. Do they just add up our total earnings and base it on those? And, who is the money paid to?

Also, I currently get HB (although have just received a letter about changes to LHA and am going EEEK). Would that be changed to claiming as a couple too, or do I just change the claim to my half of the rent?

Thanks for your help.

karenx

Housing benefit goes on joint income as you are a couple. So depending on your partners income you might not get any at all. Same with working tax credits, its a joint claim. So you may lose that too.
You will still get your DLA though

Hammyman

All means tested benefits are based on your total joint income. You are most likely going to lose all means tested benefits. You cannot just claim your half of anything if you are living as a couple.

nannytone_2

with an extra 20k a year coming into the household, surely you won't need to worry?

System

You will need to make a new joint claim for tax credits and your entitlement will be based on your 10/11 joint income.

If you have no children then even with being entitled to the disabled element of WTC on a joint income of over £20K it is unlikely you will be entitled to very much.

If you are entitled to anything then it is paid into the bank account which you 2 as a couple decide it will be paid into.

Use the tax credit calculator on here - http://taxcredits.hmrc.gov.uk/Qualify/DIQHousehold.aspx

thegirlintheattic

How much under £20k. If it is anything near £20K it is unlikely you will get benefits.