Parents of 16 to 19-year-olds have until August 31 to notify HMRC whether their child will continue in non-advanced approved education or training, or risk losing Child Benefit payments. The deadline applies to families whose teenager is remaining in approved education or training, and payments will cease automatically for anyone who fails to respond in time.
HMRC confirmed that more than 372,000 parents have already extended their Child Benefit payment digitally ahead of the cut-off date. The extension can be completed within minutes using the HMRC app or on GOV.UK, and those who have received a letter from HMRC can also scan the QR code to access the digital service directly.
Child Benefit amounts and eligibility
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. The benefit remains payable for youngsters undertaking full-time, non-advanced education, encompassing A levels, T levels, Scottish Highers, NVQs up to level 3, and certain recognised training programmes.
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 GOV.UK, so make sure you're receiving the payments you're entitled to."
What happens if circumstances change
Parents whose child's circumstances alter, such as leaving education or commencing a paid apprenticeship, must notify HMRC immediately to prevent overpayment. This requirement applies throughout the claim period, not just at the initial deadline.
Additionally, should a Child Benefit claimant or their partner possess an individual adjusted net income exceeding £60,000, the higher earner may be liable to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC). This charge affects families where the higher earner's income crosses the threshold, and it must be declared separately.
How to take action before the deadline
Parents can extend their claim within minutes via the HMRC app or on GOV.UK. Those who have received a letter from HMRC can also scan the QR code to access the digital service directly. The process is designed to be quick, with HMRC emphasising that it takes only a few minutes to complete.
Payments will cease automatically for anyone who has failed to respond by the August 31 deadline. HMRC's warning comes as exam results season prompts many teenagers to decide their next steps, making it the perfect time for parents to confirm those plans with the department.
