DMBM555420 - Debt and return pursuit: tax credits overpayments: household breakdown cases: setting the household breakdown signal on IDMS

The majority of this manual will be archived on 30 Apr 2024. If there is content within this manual you use regularly, email hmrcmanualsteam@hmrc.gov.uk to let us know.

Setting the household breakdown signal

When the TCO is notified of a HHBD, NTC is updated with the date of the actual breakdown and the HHBD signal is set on the household record. Since 10 October 2011 the HHBD signal automatically flows across to IDMS.

If a couple have a joint overpayment in IDMS and subsequently split up, the HHBD signal will not be set on TC core. This is because the claim was originally ceased or terminated for reasons other than a HHBD.

If you come across examples of this you should set the ‘Household Breakdown’ indicator on IDMS Household Designatory Data.

Since 28 Feb 2012 campaign IDMS99 letters for joint debts only contain the name and NINO of the person we are writing to. This change applies to all joint debts not only cases where the HHBD signal is set.

You should be alert to the possibility of a HHBD at all times and not divulge any information relating to a former partner.