Change of Circumstances

amizaki · 3 March 2019 at 2:03PM

Hi,

I have a question in mind... What actually mean of the "change of circumstances". Everywhere stated if income goes up or down, need to notify OR. is it net income or any income changes ?

My scenario, I declared bankrupt in December'18. And, in the OR interview, she confirmed no IPA for me. In fact from my calculation, it's minus hundred. Anyway, I asked that sometimes, Tax Credit, Housing benefits changes couple of pounds every month or so. She said in these case don't need to inform unless material changes.

Now, What I can see in HMRC online account, my tax credit going up £30 pw from April'19, but I think in that case Housing benefits will be reduced by the almost same figure. Overall, no increase or decrease from benefit income. In that case, do I need to OR ?

And, also my wife will join for a voluntary job from April'19 at school. In that case, I may need to reduce my working hours for children. Which mean my income will be reduced but in that case may be other benefits will be increase. If that happened and no overall income changes after considering benefits, will I need to inform OR about these changes ?

Thanks in advance for reply !

KeepOnKnitting · 4 March 2019 at 9:57AM

If it makes you feel better then send them a letter with the new breakdown, but I personally would only bother if it made an actual substantial difference to your income/outgoings. Enough of a difference that you have a surplus to pay. Otherwise you are just making work for no real reason.

amizaki · 4 March 2019 at 6:48PM

Thanks for the reply.

I also thinking same, as there will be no material overall changes.

Still, want to know what experience member says about this....as everywhere saying must to inform OR if any change of circumstances....not stating any amount or material change... that's why may be over thinking and little confused..

TheGardener · 4 March 2019 at 6:52PM

You have to tell the OR if there is a net gain or loss within 21 days of it actually happening. So wait until the new income/expenditure is clear then decide if it needs reporting or not.
When I was BR I received a 1% pay rise - but the cost of water rates, my rent and general cost of living costs rose by around 3% - the OR was not interested.