Tax Credit Victory

2.03.40pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 5th Aug 2005

Graham Oakes today learned that he had won his battle with the Inland Revenue over Family Tax Credit.

Graham & his wife Louise had been overpaid by the Inland Revenue along with thousands of families across Britain. Many families suffered immense hardship when the Inland Revenue demanded the money back. In the run up to the General Election the Government briefed television broadcasters, including GMTV, that they would not be demanding the money back where it was the Inland Revenue's fault, they did not inform their officials.

Graham commented "We had completed our forms correctly but our circumstances changed. We informed the Inland Revenue but they did not change the amount they were paying us and the first I learnt of the overpayment was when they sent me a repayment demand. "

"I spoke to the Inland Revenue who told me I would have to repay the money. They were not willing to confirm it could be clawed back from future benefits, despite the statement made by the Minister and said I might have to repay it in full."

"However I requested an appeal form and wrote making my case. Now after several months, they have written informing me that I will not be asked to pay back the money and will refund any repayments I may have made."

"In my case this is good news but I know there are many families in South Dorset where these errors have caused major hardship and stress, particularly for single parents. Any family who has been overpaid due to an error by the Inland Revenue should appeal. If they have already repaid the money then they should write and ask for a refund."