Whats out there I can do?

simon4amiee

Good afternoon all,

My wife is expecting her first child in August, she work as a Bank Catering Assistant (contacted 0 hours), she comes in as needed but averaged 30 hours a week. She will be giving this up leaving just my wage which is 20k per annum.

I have no idea what’s available for new mothers or myself as never claimed any benefits in 19 years of work, however I would like to give my child the best start and finding out as much info now regarding benefits/funds/tax etc should help to future planning of incomes.

Any assisting would be very welcome and appreciated.

xylophone

http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/childbenefit/payments-entitlements/other-benefits/other-help.htm you might begin here.

Saving for your child? https://www.gov.uk/junior-individual-savings-accounts/overview might be of interest.

BigAunty

You can model your situation and identify benefit entitlements on the Turn2us online benefit calculator to see if you are entitled to any working or child tax credits, council tax discount, child benefit or housing benefit (if a tenant).

Chorlie

Fill in Martin's Benefit Check-up and see what that shows

http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/family/benefits-check

But I'd guess you maybe able to claim Family Tax Credits & Child Benefit

princessdon

Congratulations!

You need to use the calculators as said. A bit of advice before you do.

It will use last years income (this years) and so won't be accurate.

You need to enter your wages and your wifes wages until maternity, then maternity pay (less £100 pw disregard for 39 weeks). this will give a more accurate tax Credit figure.

theseeker1

This post and comments are helpful information.