HMRC has begun sending out 2.5 million annual renewal packs to tax credit claimants for the next six weeks.

Recipients should check their details in the packs and report any changes to HMRC so they "don't miss out on money they are entitled to".

Possible circumstances that could affect tax credits payment and that customers should check include:

  • living arrangements
  • childcare
  • working hours
  • income (increase or decrease).

HMRC recognises that COVID-19 may have reduced a customer's working hours, so a customer will be treated as if they are working their normal hours until the furlough scheme closes.

If a customer does not receive their pack by 4 June 2021, they should get in touch with HMRC.

Applicants can log into gov.uk to check on the progress of their renewal.

HMRC also warned about scam artists who design their attacks to mimic Government initiatives. It said:

"If someone contacts a customer claiming to be from HMRC, asks for bank or other personal details, threatens arrest or demands that they transfer money, it might be a scam".

The renewal deadline for tax credits is 31 July 2021.

Talk to us about tax credits.