Citizens Advice has recently seen an increase in clients who have incorrectly had their tax credit award stopped due to errors by HM Revenue & Customs contractor Concentrix. Thousands of people who have had their tax credits cut by Concentrix and more than 70% of those who’ve appealed have had payments restored. Speaking on this issue, Victoria Cheston of Newton Aycliffe Citizens Advice said: ‘’If your tax credits were wrongly stopped by Concentrix, you may be able to claim compensation on top of receiving any backdated payments. I would encourage anyone who thinks this might be an issue to get help immediately’’ If you believe your tax credits were wrongly stopped you need to go through HMRC’s appeals process first, you’ve 30 days from being notified of changes, unless there are exceptional circumstances (e.g, being in hospital), however you can also ask for compensation if you believe your tax credits were stopped erroneously. You can contact HMRC’s tax credit office by phoning 0345 300 3900 or using its web chat service. Should you need any help to appeal or to ask for compensation then call into your local Citizens Advice office. Newton Aycliffe CAB opening times: Tuesday 10am – 4pm, Wednesday & Friday 10am – 1pm.