Tax credit claim and separation

[Bella73]

I am going through separation so have had to move out of the family home leaving my 2 boys with dad. My husband has no family so there was no alternative. Can I put a claim in for tax credit even if my children can't live with me temporarily because of the separation. As soon as I can find somewhere to rent they can come and live with me, but im currently residing in my nephews play room. I cannot financially survive without tax credit or housing benefit, I have never claimed benefits before this.
Any advice in this sad situation would be welcome

[friedgreentomato]

no unlike child benefit the children need to be living with you to claim tax credits.

[bednobs]

how many hours are you working? it makes a difference as to whether you can claim wtc. I'm pretty sure you can't get tax credits if the children don't live with you - after all you don't have their expenses to take care of.

[firewatch]

Dont try it you will be penalised in future. Go to your local councils housing advice team and they may be able toadvise you about benefits etc