Can I get child tax credits?

Hi @Lisa1985
When you say he is coming to stay with you, do you mean he is moving in?

You may be able to claim Child Tax Credit if you’re responsible for children either:

• aged 16 or under - you can claim up until 31 August after their 16th birthday
• under 20 and in eligible education or training

You do not need to be working to claim Child Tax Credit. Only one household can get Child Tax Credit for a child so if his parents are claiming for him, then you wouldnt be able to.

It may be worth trying the benefits calculator here, but it would be useful to know what anyone else is claiming for him too. You could also look into Child Benefit if he is moving in with you permanently.

Goodness, I'm truly sorry to hear this @Lisa1985. What an absolutely awful situation for you to have been through. Are you getting any support yourself at the moment? 

Do have a look at the links provided above, as they should help give you some insight into what you could claim. If you would like further support or assistance with this, it might be worth giving our helpline team a call on 0808 800 3333 (free). Do keep us updated and we'll advise where we can.