Going back to work after maternity leave?...

[xPinkAngelx]

Im due back at work in a couple of months, I was working full time but want to return as part time. I would like to know if i have to work 16hours to still receive benefits or can i work less than 16hours without my benefits changing? I've tried looking on the net but cant seem to find a straight forward answer!

Also, would i be able to get help with childcare costs?

Thanks x

[redcrx]

try the online tax credits application and put in a few variations to get an idea.

http://taxcredits.hmr...ify/DIQHousehold.aspx

[bednobs]

i think it will depend entirely on how much you get paid, you might (for example) earn £1000 per hour (ok,ok so it's not likely) and someone who gets paid 16 k a week might have trouble claiming benefits

[ann_h]

You must work 16 hours or more to qualify to claim working tax credits. Under 16 hours you have to claim Income support. You claim/get child tax credits either way.
It depends on your income and housing costs whether you will be better off with one or the other.
You only get childcare costs contribution as part of Working tax credit claim I think.

direct.gov is the official site
x

[micmak]

Years ago my wife had to leave her job when she became pregnant. She asked about returning to work after the child was born. No maternity leave back in those days. No pay either. If I was an employer I would not employ a woman of child bearing age. Smaller employers cannot afford this. Larger employers ie Supermarkets, manufacturers etc put their prices up to accommodate this.,

[xPinkAngelx]

mickmak - If I was an employer I would not employ a woman of child bearing age - wouldn't this be discrimination!

thanks everyone. looks like ill have to go back and do 16hours ascitizens advice told me a couple of months ago i cant get income support as not a single parent!

[Nosha123]

if you are capable of working - then surely you should work - to pay for your own upkeep (and that of your baby)... or should society be expected to pay for it all instead?

[xPinkAngelx]

where have i said i dont want to work?... read the question - i said i want to work part time.