Work tax credits

If you have children then you can get some money from the government to help with the costs of raising a family.

As well as child benefit, most parents are entitled to Child Tax Credits. Despite its name, this is money paid directly to whoever looks after the child. The amount you get will vary, and is based on your household income. You can earn over £50,000 a year and still get some money. Plus there is an extra amount if you use registered childcare.

To apply, you need to get a form from the Inland Revenue – phone them on 0845 300 3900, or you can apply on line.

The form takes a while to fill out and you will need to know how much you earned in the last tax year, but it is likely to be worth it: families with incomes of up to £50,000 will receive at least £545 in the 2003/04 tax year.

• Inland Revenue Tax Credits
  www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk/taxcredits
• Babyworld
  www.babyworld.co.uk/information/money/taxcredit.asp