Look at your income
Resolving debt problems should always begin with
looking at ways of increasing your income.
Benefits and tax credits
Are you claiming the correct benefits and at the correct amount?
Many people do not claim benefits to which they are entitled.
Remember there are different types of benefits. Some are based
upon national insurance contributions, some are based on your income
and capital, and others that are based upon your personal care
and mobility needs. From 6 October 2003, people aged 60 or over
may be able to claim pension credit. See benefits for older people
for more information.
It is always worth getting your benefits checked by an adviser
to make sure the claim is correct, up to date and you are receiving
everything to which you are entitled.
Some people miss out on benefits because they wrongly assume they
cannot claim anything when they are working. Many benefits can
be paid if you are working and your income is low enough.
Help with benefits can be obtained from your local Citizens Advice
Bureau or independent advice centre.
If you are working you may be able to claim working tax credit,
and if you are responsible for a child you may be able to claim
child tax credit ? see factsheet 13 - tax credits.
The Inland Revenue
has a telephone helpline - 0845 300 3900 (0845 300 3909 if you
have speech or hearing difficulties. You can also check your
entitlement and claim online, www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk
Tax Allowances
Anyone paying income tax and bringing up a child
aged under 16 can claim a children's tax credit. This is a form
of tax relief
and is available to employed or self-employed persons.
Contact your local tax office for more information or phone the
children's tax credit helpline on 0845 300 1036.
Tax Codes
Always check if your tax code is correct for your circumstances
- you can obtain further information from your CAB or Inland Revenue
office.
All of this will help you to maximise your income and minimise
your costs. |
