High Income Child Benefit Charge - 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.

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 5 Dec 2012

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.