Child Benefit - Avoiding a tax return

To make things a little simpler, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) allow you to have the Charge collected via your tax code.

This means the deductions of tax that your employer makes from you each pay period will be larger, but avoids the need for having to pay it to HMRC in one lump via the Self Assessment system. However, this does not negate the requirement for a tax return. It is merely an easier way to pay the Charge.

The only way you can avoid the requirement for a tax return if the High Income Child Benefit Charge applies to you, is to forfeit your Child Benefit and opt to no longer receive it. As it is your partner that receives it, they will have to do this - it cannot be done by you.

Unfortunately, as the 2012/13 tax year has already passed, you will need to complete a return for this year and also for 2013/14 as we are part-way through it. But moving forward, you should avoid the need for a return. Please note, opting out must be done by the recipient of the benefit.

If you would like any advice about Tax Credits or assistance with completing your tax return, please do not hesitate to contact your local TaxAssist Accountants office.

Date published 3 Jan 2014

This article is intended to inform rather than advise and is based on legislation and practice at the time. Taxpayer’s circumstances do vary and if you feel that the information provided is beneficial it is important that you contact us before implementation. If you take, or do not take action as a result of reading this article, before receiving our written endorsement, we will accept no responsibility for any financial loss incurred.