Tax Credits backdating

[tali1]

i have heard the WTC /Family credit any changes they will backdate for only 1 month.I am in process of new DLA for my son (which can be backdated 3 months).However , someone told me that as long as you inform HMRC WITHIN 1 month of any change, they will backdate to when the actual change occured
Anyone clarify?
Thx

[bednobs]

isn't that just another way of saying the same thing?

[douglas9401]

We had ours backdated to January this year. It was due to a mistake on their part so that might have some bearing but very welcome nonetheless.
Good luck with your situation.

[tali1]

Hey ?/Errr.....no subtle differences- (that's why WITHIN was in capitals) - because "Within 1 month" means backdated 3 months rather than 1 month .

[bednobs]

i seriously dont get how within 1 month means 3 months! if you are informing of a change within 1 month, and thjey backdate it to the date of the change, thats less than a month

[themas]

The normal rule is (as from this April) that claims can only be backdated 1 month. However, if you are waiting to hear about a decision on a disability claim such as DLA then the backdate can be longer if you notify Tax Credits within 1 month of getting the decision.

There are different circumstances. The above applies if you are starting a new claim for Working Tax Credit, but generally relates to the claimant or partner making the DLA claim for him or herself. Something similar applies if you are currently claiming & a child who is already on the claim (i.e. you are getting Child Tax credit) is the person for whom the DLA claim is made. However, you do need to check the exact requirements with the Helpline. There is no harm in ringing them now & explaining the situation. They should be able to tell you what will happen if DLA is awarded.