You are not a citizen until you are sworn in. If you are denied because of failure to pass the English or the civics test, you will be automatically rescheduled within 90 days. If you are not approved for some other reason, you may be given time to overcome the problem.
For 2009, the American Opportunity Credit--which is a variation of the Hope Credit--will be allowed for 4 years. For years before and after the new credit is allowed, the Hope credit is supposed to be for 2 years.
Child Benefit and tax credits. Child Benefit and tax credits can be a big boost to the family budget. You need to claim for each of them, theyâre not paid automatically. Make sure you claim - within one month from babyâs birth for tax credits and three months for Child Benefit. Both of these benefits can help your family finances stay MoneyFit, but governments can change the amounts, or eligibility criteria, so it's probably best not to rely on them too much.