HMRC is sending a valuable perk worth up to £2,337 to UK households earning under £80,000 through Child Benefit payments. The benefit provides a significant financial boost for families across the country.
Child Benefit Payment Rates
Child Benefit is currently worth £27.05 per week for the eldest or only child, which amounts to £1,406.60 per year. For each additional child, families receive £17.90 per week, equating to an extra £930.80 annually. These rates reflect a 3.8% uplift implemented in April.
For example, a family with two children can receive a total of £2,337.40 per year. The benefit can continue for teenagers who are studying full-time in non-advanced education or undertaking unpaid approved training courses.
Claiming and Managing Child Benefit
Last year, 874,000 parents extended their Child Benefit claim, with more than half using the online service or the HMRC app. Parents can view payment information, proof of entitlement, and add children through the app.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC's Chief Customer Officer, said: "Child Benefit is a real financial boost for families, so if your teenager already knows they're staying in education or training after their GCSEs or National 5s, you don't need to wait for our letter. You can extend your Child Benefit claim today in minutes via the HMRC app or online at GOV.UK."
High Income Child Benefit Charge
If a claimant or their partner has an individual income between £60,000 and £80,000, the higher earner may be liable for the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC). Parents can use the Child Benefit tax calculator on GOV.UK for an estimate and pay the charge through their PAYE tax code using the HICBC digital service or through Self Assessment.
Eligibility Criteria
Full-time education is defined as more than an average of 12 hours per week of supervised study or course-related work experience, including home schooling. Child Benefit cannot be claimed if a teenager's course is part of a job contract. If a child has an illness or disability, they may be able to do fewer hours where appropriate.
