WTC and CTC and changing working hours query - would I have to move to UC?

the_pink_panther_2

I can't find this scenario written about online, though I'm sure it's a common one.  I am a single parent claiming CTC and WTC.  I'm looking to relocate so know I'll have to move to UC once I do.  But, before I move I'll have to give 2-3 months notice on my current work to be sure that employment wouldn't stop me from moving and then can't guarantee how long it would take before the house sale would go though, I know it may even fall through.  Depending on whether I can get enough hours of short-term work in that interim period I may fall below the threshold for claiming working hours so would have to stop claiming WTC in that event.  My question is, as I'd already be claiming CTC, would I have to claim UC at that point, or could I continue to claim just the CTC without the WTC, in the hope that my hours may increase enough to reclaim WTC before relocating, as I have no idea how long I might be in that situation for?  I just don't know if my tax credit claim overall can be held open because I already claim CTC, or if my working hours falling below the threshold would mean irrespective of CTC, I'd have to move over to UC and could not claim CTC any longer if my hours went too low?

calcotti

You only have to claim UC if you move to a local authority and want to change help with rent.

If you cease to be eligible for WTC your CTC will continue and if you subsequently become eligible for WTC again it will be added back.

the_pink_panther_2

calcotti said:

You only have to claim UC if you move to a local authority and want to change help with rent.

If you cease to be eligible for WTC your CTC will continue and if you subsequently become eligible for WTC again it will be added back.

Thanks for that.  I would be moving to a new local authority but I would be buying, rather than renting.  Does that mean that I could keep CTC and, depending on hours, WTC too?

poppy12345

the_pink_panther_2 said:

calcotti said:

You only have to claim UC if you move to a local authority and want to change help with rent.

If you cease to be eligible for WTC your CTC will continue and if you subsequently become eligible for WTC again it will be added back.

Thanks for that.  I would be moving to a new local authority but I would be buying, rather than renting.  Does that mean that I could keep CTC and, depending on hours, WTC too?

Yes, that's correct because you won't be claiming for help with any rent.

the_pink_panther_2

Thank you.  That's really helpful.

calcotti

Be aware that the government intention is that everyone will have their Tax Credits closed by the end of 2024 (but it remains to be seen if this target is met).

the_pink_panther_2

calcotti said:

Be aware that the government intention is that everyone will have their Tax Credits closed by the end of 2024 (but it remains to be seen if this target is met).

Thanks. Yes, unfortunately I'm aware.