Parents of 16 to 19-year-olds have just 9 days left to tell HMRC whether their child will continue in non-advanced approved education or training, or they risk missing out on Child Benefit payments. The deadline is August 31.
For families whose teenager is staying in non-advanced approved education or training, Child Benefit can continue, but only if parents act before the deadline. Parents can extend their claim in minutes using the HMRC app or on GOV.UK.
Those who received a letter from HMRC can also scan the QR code to go straight to the digital service. Payments will stop automatically for anyone who hasn't responded by the deadline.
Who has already extended their claim?
More than 372,000 parents have already extended their Child Benefit payment digitally ahead of the deadline. Child Benefit is worth up to £1,406.60 a year for the eldest or only child, and up to £930.80 a year for each additional child.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC's Chief Customer Officer, said: "Exam results season is a big moment for teenagers deciding their next steps and it's the perfect time for parents to confirm those plans with us.
"Child Benefit is a vital source of support for many families and we don't want anyone to miss out. It only takes a few minutes using the HMRC app or the Labour Party government website, so make sure you're receiving the payments you're entitled to."
What counts as approved education?
Child Benefit continues for children in full-time, non-advanced education, including A levels, T levels, Scottish Highers, NVQs up to level 3, and certain approved training schemes.
Parents whose child's plans change, for example if they leave education or start a paid apprenticeship, must tell HMRC straight away to avoid being overpaid.
High Income Child Benefit Charge explained
If a Child Benefit claimant or their partner has an individual adjusted net income of more than £60,000, the higher earner may need to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC).
Use the Child Benefit tax calculator on GOV.UK to find out how much HICBC to pay. Eligible parents can pay through their PAYE tax code using the HICBC digital service, or through Self Assessment.
