HMRC is making a surprise payment of £180 into Child Benefit claimants' bank accounts this Friday. The payment reflects the updated rates for the 2026-2027 tax year, introduced by the Labour government. Under the new rates, claimants receive £27.05 per week for their eldest or only child, and £17.90 per week for each additional child.
Over a standard four-week pay period, this means families with two children will receive £180. Claimants are advised to contact the Child Benefit Office if they believe they have been underpaid or overpaid.
Impact on Benefit Cap
Any Child Benefit payments count towards the benefit cap. However, even if affected by the cap, claimants will still receive the full Child Benefit amount, though other benefits may be reduced.
Payment Schedule and Options
Child Benefit is typically paid every four weeks on a Monday or Tuesday. Single parents or those receiving certain benefits like Universal Credit can opt for weekly payments. Payments can be made into any bank account except a Post Office card account or a Nationwide cashbuilder account (sort code 07 00 30) held in someone else's name. Only one account can be used for payments.
How to Extend Claims
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC's Chief Customer Officer, urged families to extend claims promptly: "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."
Child Benefit can continue for teenagers who are studying full-time in non-advanced education or on unpaid approved training courses.
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 pay this charge through their PAYE tax code using the HICBC digital service, or via Self Assessment.
