Am I missing something?

alfiemama

princessdon wrote: »

WTC is based on income - the requirement for a couple is 1 works more than 24 hours. Therefore you should already be getting WTC if entitled. your working should "lower" than figure.

But your CTC should increase for the childcare element.

I thought both of you have to work for wtc? If I put in less hours (less than 16) it tells me it won't be able to help with child care costs.

alfiemama

Nope just checked with hubby and we defo don't get wtc.
But just looked online your right after April 2012 we should do.
Would they not just lump it all together with the child tax and not tell us?
Going to have to dig out all the paper work.

Thanks princess it is defo more, coming out at £27 now much better than £13.10

princessdon

It's a case of playing the scenarios through.

Have you thought of childcare salary vouchers (if your OH company allows), does he have a pension?

Eg if he earnt £30K but paid £3k in childcare vouchers and £2K in pension the figure you use is £25K (ie his p60 figure).

alfiemama

They don't do childcare vouchers.
Just played with the figures and they will give me £48 working tax per week if I don't work to send little one to nursery (go figure)

Labsettings

Working at a school isn't necessarily with kids - maybe work in the office or something if there are vacancies?

Do you know another mum who might be able to care for your little ones while you are at work, and you and the hubby care for theirs at some point? Or a family member who could care for them?

When my OH was younger, he would go to his grandma's every Thursday, as his mum worked late that day. He'd have dinner and get picked up after finishing his homework. I know it's not always feasible, but maybe worth asking around?

alfiemama

Thanks Labsettings, that would be bliss if he we had someone like that.
Unfortunatley, we don't. We have 0 help and 0 childcare.

jfh7gwa

alfiemama wrote: »

Am I right in thinking that school postions and nursery jobs are the only jobs mums with kids can do?

No, not at all.

wiggywoo9

You're right, it's a complete conundrum. Surely by now, the government would figure out a scheme that targets people who WANT to work but have kids?

I've got a little boy and there's no info out there about starting work but paying for childcare too. I can't wait to work, it's so good for you and a welcome environment, but there's nothing to help with a young child who needs looking after.

Luckily I'm a student so fees are roughly paid for while I study, but after that, I'm on my own. It's so tough these days, all the while keeping face for the child's wellbeing. All I can say is, you've got true courage and I admire you for that

alfiemama

Aw thanks so much wiggy. May I ask what you're studying? I also like to write, so wondered if it was connected?

alfiemama

jfh7gwa wrote: »

No, not at all.

Would you like to expand on this? What other jobs are there?