Ever the optimist, I'm wondering if it's worth appealing against a tax credit overpayment I have?
Back in August 2007 I recieved a demand to pay overpayments from 2004-5/2005-6. That was the first notification and everything had always seemed OK ... wage amounts always correct etc.
I asked them to look into it (20 Aug 2007) and have today received a letter for the 2005-6 part saying they've completed their enquiry and enclose a new award to confirm the decision they made on 18 June 2007.
Just over £2500 to pay.
There is nothing about the 2004-5 overpayment so I don't know what to expect there (it was about the same amount I think)
I'm wondering ... Can they really leave it a year or two to suddenly demand payments when they have sent no notification previously?
Will my ex have to pay half - he's claiming loudly to his solicitor that the relationship was over in April 2005, when it finished in April 2007 ... wondering if he's trying to wriggle out of something LOL!
Can any outstanding amount be payed in installments (preferably small as I'm not working at the moment) ???
Yes it is worth appealing. If nothing else it buys you some time whilst TCC try to get an amnesty on non-claimant fault overpayments. But you also have a chance of winning your appeal.
Do you know how the overpayments came about? If not that is your first task. I suggest you start by accessing data on you that tax credits hold - see the main website and steps to find out how to do a SARN. Also follow the steps to contact HMRC and say you are disputing repaying the overpayment and contact your MP.
I would think that your ex is trying to step away from the overpayment and imply it's all yours or was wrongly claimed (again this would make you liable). For a joint claim you are jointly and severely liable - which means HMRC can go after both of you for the full amount, but they are only supposed to take the full amount once. They will go after easiest recovery so start disputing and make sure that your ex is the softer target. And make sure HMRC are clear that your ex was with you at the time of the overpayment.
Post again or try the contacts on the main web site if you need help.
I'm going to go back over things, check it all and contact them. Will also try to find out if the ex is trying to wriggle out of paying ... I'm begining to wonder!
Hi ... is it really worth appealing?
Posted - 03/03/2008 : 12:23:22
