Child Benefit allowances are regular payments from the UK government to help parents and guardians with the cost of raising children. Unlike other benefits based on income alone, Child Benefit is available to most families, but the amount you keep can be affected by your income level.
The UK has set weekly rates for the eldest or only child and additional rates for each extra child. If you or your partner earn over a certain amount, you may need to pay back some or all of the Child Benefit through the High Income Child Benefit Charge.
Understanding how Child Benefit allowances work, how much you’re entitled to, and when you might need to repay some can help you manage your family finances and stay compliant with HMRC.
Before you claim Child Benefit, it’s important to understand how the allowances work and whether you’re eligible. The amount you receive depends on how many children you’re claiming for and your income level.
Knowing the rates, how to claim, and when you might need to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge helps you avoid unexpected tax bills and ensures you get the right support for your family.
Most parents or guardians in the UK can claim Child Benefit if they’re responsible for raising a child under 16, or under 20 if the child stays in approved education or training. You do not need to be working or on a low income to claim.
Only one person can get Child Benefit for each child, so if you live with a partner, you’ll need to decide who makes the claim.
Even if you or your partner earn over £50,000 and have to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge, it can still be worth claiming — you’ll protect your child’s National Insurance number and get credits towards your State Pension.
You can claim Child Benefit by filling in a Child Benefit Allowance claim form (CH2) and sending it to HMRC, along with your child’s birth certificate if they’re not already registered with HMRC. You can usually claim as soon as your child is born or comes to live with you.
If you already get Child Benefit for another child, you can add a new child to your existing claim online.
To make a claim, you’ll need:
Once your claim is processed, you’ll get monthly payments, usually into your bank account.
What is Child Benefit?
Child Benefit is a regular payment from the UK government to help with the cost of raising children. It’s paid monthly to parents or guardians responsible for a child under 16 (or under 20 if in approved education or training).
Who can claim Child Benefit?
Anyone responsible for a qualifying child can claim Child Benefit — whether you’re working, unemployed, or self-employed. Only one person can claim for each child.
How much is Child Benefit?
There’s a standard weekly rate for your eldest or only child, and a slightly lower rate for each additional child. The government usually reviews these rates each April.
When does Child Benefit stop?
Child Benefit usually stops on 31 August after your child turns 16, unless they continue in approved education or training. In that case, payments can continue until they turn 20.
What is the High Income Child Benefit Charge?
If you or your partner earn over £50,000 a year, you may have to pay back some or all of your Child Benefit through the High Income Child Benefit Charge.
How do I claim Child Benefit?
You claim Child Benefit by completing form CH2 and sending it to HMRC with your child’s birth certificate if needed. If you already get Child Benefit for another child, you can add a new child online.
Do I need to claim Child Benefit if I don’t want the money?
Even if you choose not to receive the payments (to avoid the High Income Charge), it’s often still worth claiming. This protects your child’s National Insurance record and can help you qualify for State Pension credits.
How is Child Benefit paid?
Child Benefit is usually paid every four weeks, directly into your bank or building society account.
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