HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is encouraging people across Scotland and the rest of the UK to check the range of financial support available to make sure they are not missing out on any savings or tax breaks over the coming months, which could help with the rising cost of living.
HMRC has listed the support available in a new dedicated section of the GOV.UK website to ensure people are not missing out and can easily find out if they are eligible with details on how to claim.
The new GOV.UK page pinpoints people to a one-stop shop of all the benefits, credits and allowances available to individuals and families, making it easier than ever for people to claim what they are entitled to.
HMRC financial support available
Child Benefit
Child Benefit can be claimed if someone is responsible for bringing up a child who is:
- Under 16
- Under 20 if they stay in approved education or training
Only one person can get Child Benefit for a child. It’s paid every four weeks and there’s no limit to how many children you can claim for.
Child Benefit payment rates for 2022/23
There are two weekly Child Benefit rates in place:
- Eldest or only child - £21.80
- Additional children - £14.45
Guardian's Allowance rates:
- Weekly rate for Guardian's Allowance - £18.55
Tax-Free Childcare
Working parents can get assistance of up to £500 every three months (up to £2,000 per year) for each of their children to help with the costs of childcare until the September after their 11th birthday. If a child is disabled, this goes up to £1,000 every three months until the September after their 16th birthday (up to £4,000 per year).
Marriage Tax Allowance
Marriage Tax Allowance allows individuals to transfer 10% (£1,260) of their personal tax allowance to a husband, wife or civil partner if they earn less than the personal tax allowance, which is usually £12,570.
Work-related expenses and uniform allowances
Tax relief can be claimed on money spent on things like work uniforms and clothing, tools, subscriptions or business travel.
It’s worth noting that the working from home allowance revised rules set out during the coronavirus pandemic no longer apply - find out more here.
The GOV.UK page also includes guidance for those on a low income wanting to make the most of their savings and help for those struggling to pay their tax bill.
Myrtle Lloyd, Director General Customer Services Group, HMRC, said: “We understand these are very difficult times for many so it’s vitally important we continue to highlight the range of support available.
“We’d encourage those who think they may be eligible for support to take a look and claim what they’re entitled to – it could make an important difference to household budgets at a time when it’s needed the most.”
Additional online tools and guidance are available to help people check if they are eligible for each service, as well as extra support to guide them through the application process.
Find out more on the GOV.UK website here.
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