Claiming tax credits just before going on to UC full service

I think I read something about Tax Credit claims not being accepted in the 2 weeks before an area goes full service? Cant find anything now - anyone have the details? We go to full service on 25/7/18.

Thanks

Hi JoW

HMRC’s Benefits & Credits Consultation Group stated in an e-mail in January that:

• If the claimant lives in a postcode area which will become a UC Full Service area within 3 weeks;
The adviser asks the customer if they want to make a new claim for tax credits over the phone. If the customer answers “yes” they will be transferred to an adviser who will capture the new claim over the phone.  This process is in place because if a claim pack is received after an area becomes a UC Full Service area the customer is prevented from claiming tax credits.  Please note the timescale for issuing a tax credit claim pack is up to 2 weeks. If the claimant answers “no” a claim pack can still be sent but they will be advised that if it is received on or after the date their postcode becomes a UC Full Service area the claim will be rejected. 

As mentioned in CPAG handbook page 1468 and January e-bulletin https://cpag-mail.org.uk/5MI-5FI75-9CL4WEK95/cr.aspx but not easily found in HMRC staff guidance so TC Helpline staff may take some persuading this is the case - the power to take a claim by phone is in TC(Claims & Notifications) Regs, Reg5(2).

Mark

Thanks for this