Before Tax credits were introduced on 6 April 2003 there was a different allowance available for parents and families which was badly publicised by HMRC.  If you did not claim this allowance you can still do so up until 31 January 2009.

You may be eligible for this allowance and have the ability to claim £529 allowance if:-

• You have a child born between 6 April 1986 and 5 April 2003
and
• The child lived with you for all or part of 2002/3 tax year
and
• You worked and paid tax for all or part of that tax year

If you answered yes to the above 3 questions and one of your children was born between 6 April 2002 and 5 April 2003 you may be able to claim £1048 allowance.

For more information click here