Did you know that if you work – whether you’re working for someone or self-employed – you may be entitled to a benefit called working tax credit to help you make ends meet? And, people who are on a low income and are also responsible for at least one child under the age of 16 (or 20, if they’re in approved education or training) may currently claim child tax credit for each qualifying child.

People who are on a low income and are also responsible for at least one child under the age of 16 (or 20, if they’re in approved education or training) may currently claim Child Tax Credit for each qualifying child. You don’t have to be working to claim Child Tax Credit, and any money you get won’t affect your Child Benefit.

The amount you’ll get depends on your circumstances, including how much you earn and how many children you’re claiming for. If your child is disabled and receives Disability Living Allowance or Personal Independence Payment, or if they’re certified blind, you may get extra money.

Like many other benefits, working out what you’re entitled to with Child Tax Credit can be complicated. To get an idea of how much you could be getting, use this tax credits calculator or take a look at these tax credits entitlement tables. If you want to apply for Child Tax Credit, call the Tax Credit Helpline on 0345 300 3900.

Meanwhile, if you’re working and on a low income, you may also be entitled to Working Tax Credit, which includes some help towards childcare.