HMRC customers in the North West encouraged to check out financial support available to them

CUSTOMERS in the North West are being encouraged to check online for the range of financial support available from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to help with living costs. HMRC has listed the support available in 1 place to ensure people are not missing out and can easily find out online if they are eligible and how to claim. The new Gov.UK page pinpoints people to a one-stop shop of all the benefits, credits and allowances available to individuals and families, making it easier than ever for people to claim what they are entitled to. This includes:-

Child Benefit

· Child Benefit can be claimed if someone is responsible for bringing up a child who is under 16.

· Under 20 if they stay in approved education or training; only 1 person can get Child Benefit for a child. It's paid every 4 weeks and there's no limit to how many children you can claim for.

Tax Free Childcare... Working parents can get assistance of up to ₤500 every 3 months (up to ₤2,000 a year) for each of their children to help with the costs of childcare until the September after their 11th birthday. If a child is disabled, this goes up to ₤1,000 every 3 months until the September after their 16th birthday (up to ₤4,000 a year).

Marriage Allowance allows individuals to transfer 10% (₤1,260) of their personal tax allowance to a husband, wife or civil partner if they earn less than the personal tax allowance, which is usually ₤12,570.

Work related expenses and uniform allowances.

Tax relief can be claimed on money spent on things like:- work uniform and clothing, tools, subscriptions or business travel.

The Gov.UK page also includes guidance for those on a low income wanting to make the most of their savings and help for those struggling to pay their tax bill.

Myrtle Lloyd, Director General Customer Services Group, HMRC:- "We understand these are very difficult times for many so it's vitally important we continue to highlight the range of support available. We'd encourage those who think they may be eligible for support to take a look and claim what they're entitled to; it could make an important difference to household budgets at a time when it's needed the most."

Additional online tools and guidance are available to help customers check if they are eligible for each service; as well as extra support to guide them through the application process.

Liverpool businessman posthumously honoured

A businessman who inspired generations of entrepreneurs is to be posthumously honoured in a special ceremony at Liverpool Town Hall, on Wednesday, 13 April 2022. John Haynes, who passed away in December 2020, was the founder of the Liverpool based International Coaching Academy. His career began at the Hygena factory, in Kirkby, as a cabinet maker, and he went on to work at:- Royal Sun Alliance, where he became Regional Director. In 1998, he set up the International Coaching Academy, which was launched at Sir Paul McCartney's LIPA with a specially written musical called:- 'Life Changes.' He became one of the world's leading business consultants and motivational speakers, helping people reach their full potential using pioneering leadership and management methods. He will be posthumously awarded the title of Citizen of Honour, at Liverpool Town Hall, in recognition of his hugely influential contribution to the business community of the City, and beyond. The John Haynes Foundation has been set up in his memory to inspire others to continue his work.

Lord Mayor, Cllr Mary Rasmussen, said:- "John Haynes was a true inspiration for many people and I am delighted that we are honouring him. He loved Liverpool and never missed an opportunity to promote it, no matter where in the world he was. It is fantastic that The John Haynes Foundation continues to honour his legacy, supporting people of all ages and from all walks of life to transform and enhance their lives and careers."

Hilda Yarker, Chair of the John Haynes Foundation, said:- "John Haynes was one of the most high profile, respected business leaders across the Liverpool City Region and beyond. Since John passed away in December 2020 his legacy continues through The John Haynes Foundation and all those who were influenced by his teachings. Along with John's family, the Patrons, and Trustees of the foundation we are delighted to see John posthumously awarded the Liverpool City Council Citizen of Honour Award. This is a fitting tribute to a man whose impact will continue to be felt for generations to come. The people whose lives he touched and those he mentored will continue his work and influence others to 'fly with the eagles.'"