Tax Credits and Childcare

BigMac79

Ex wife wants me to contribute to childcare costs on top of the maintenance I already give her. She’s saying she can’t claim help via tax credits as Easter is only 2 weeks long and tax credits only consider changes of 4 weeks or more. 

I said surely you would factor in your total annual childcare cost into your calculations to them rather than doing it on a per holiday basis? How would low income families cope otherwise?

I’m having the kids for the first week of the holidays instead although there does appear to be an expectation that I contribute towards childcare in the second week now.  

poppy12345

If she doesn't already claim tax credits then it's no longer possible to start any new claims for this. Universal Credit has replaced it. Childcare of up to 85% can be paid if she's entitled to any UC. The only issue with this is that you need to paid the costs upfront and then claim it back.

BigMac79

She already gets tax credits. She’s recently gone back to full time work though hence the change. 

sheramber

Is she only using the childcare for the holiday?