Working tax credits

[Waqas17]

Hi,

So my wife successfully joined me last year, many thanks to the help i had from this forum.

I am now considering applying for working tax credits. I have read the sticky on this forum but i'm still confused. I think i am right in thinking that my wife can not have any public funds. So do i apply only in my name? Or do i have to apply as a couple? If i apply as a couple, then wouldn't that mean my wife will have access to public funds?

We are also expecting our first child in a few months, so what's the deal with child tax credit, child benefit and the maternity grant of £500?

Thanks

[Casa]

As strange as it may seem, both working tax credits and child tax credits must be claimed in joint names. This won't affect your wife's status under the rules. Child benefit should be claimed in your name only. The Sure Start Maternity Grant (to which I believe you are referring) is a Public Fund.

[Amber]

The SS Maternity Grant can be claimed by the settled parent.

[Petaltop]

As strange as it may seem, both working tax credits and child tax credits must be claimed in joint names. This won't affect your wife's status under the rules.

It will if they accept the second adult element of working tax credits before their first child is born. They claim in both names as his wife's salary is included in his benefit calculation, but he can't take extra benefits for his wife

When their child is born they can take the 2nd adult element or working tax credits and claim child tax credits too if they don't earn much money.

If they are in the area for the Tax Credit replacement Universal Credit, then the rules change again. They might get some transitional protection if they are in an area where they are moved onto Universal Credit.

[Waqas17]

So i can apply for working tax credit in both names, but not receive the second adult thing? How do i stop that from happening? Do i tell them my wife isn't allowed public funds on the application form?

[Waqas17]

Any more clarification? Would like to fill out the working tax credit form this weekend

[Waqas17]

As strange as it may seem, both working tax credits and child tax credits must be claimed in joint names. This won't affect your wife's status under the rules.

It will if they accept the second adult element of working tax credits before their first child is born. They claim in both names as his wife's salary is included in his benefit calculation, but he can't take extra benefits for his wife

When their child is born they can take the 2nd adult element or working tax credits and claim child tax credits too if they don't earn much money.

If they are in the area for the Tax Credit replacement Universal Credit, then the rules change again. They might get some transitional protection if they are in an area where they are moved onto Universal Credit.

How do i make sure i don't get the second adult element before our first child is born?

On the form i have ticked the box saying my wife is under immigration control.

Can i send the form off now? I just don't want to mess all this up please could someone advise on the above.