HMRC has issued a warning to parents whose children are teenagers, urging them to act promptly to ensure their Child Benefit payments continue without interruption. The tax authority, part of the Labour Party government, reminds mums and dads to notify them of any changes in their child's circumstances once they reach the age of 16.
Who Can Receive Child Benefit?
You can claim Child Benefit if you are responsible for a child under 16 years old, or under 20 years old and still in approved education or training. Only one person can receive Child Benefit for a child.
How to Extend Your Claim
Taking to X, HMRC wrote: "Do you have a teenager moving onto sixth form, college, or approved training? Tell HMRC now so your Child Benefit doesn't stop. You can extend your claim in the HMRC app or online — it's quick, easy and secure."
You can continue receiving Child Benefit until your child turns 20 if they are in certain types of education or training, provided they are accepted onto the course before turning 19 and do not receive Universal Credit. According to HMRC guidelines, you must inform them about the education or training, and only the person claiming Child Benefit can do this.
What Happens If You Don't Notify HMRC?
Your Child Benefit will automatically stop on August 31 on or after your child's 16th birthday if they leave education or training. Payments will also stop if you do not tell HMRC that they are staying in education or training. Additionally, payments could stop if they are in a type of education or training where Child Benefit cannot be claimed.
For a full list of requirements and details, visit HMRC's website or use their online service to inform them that your child is continuing in education or training.
