Check UK Eligibility 🇬🇧
🇬🇧 UK Family · Updated June 2026

👶 Child Benefit

Child Benefit is a regular payment from the government for parents and carers responsible for children under 16 (or under 20 in approved education or training). The 2024/25 rates are £25.60/week for the first child and £16.95/week for each additional child — paid every 4 weeks.

£25.60–£16.95/week per child
Benefit amount
Family
Category

Do you qualify?

You can claim if you're responsible for a child under 16 (or under 20 in approved education or training) and you live in the UK. There is no minimum income requirement — but higher earners may have to repay some or all of it through the High Income Child Benefit Charge.

Child ageUnder 16, or under 20 if in approved full-time education or training (not higher education).
ResponsibilityYou must be responsible for the child — they live with you or you contribute at least the same amount as Child Benefit toward their care.
ResidencyMust live in the UK. Some exceptions for Crown servants abroad.
IncomeNo income limit to claim, but high earners (£60,000+) may repay through tax.
ImmigrationSubject to immigration control affects eligibility — most with settled or pre-settled status qualify.

How much you could get

Child Benefit is paid every 4 weeks, usually on a Monday or Tuesday. For 2024/25: eldest or only child: £25.60/week (£1,331.20/year). Additional children: £16.95/week (£881.40/year) each. If you or your partner earn over £60,000, you'll pay back some or all through self-assessment tax.

How to apply — step by step

1

Apply as soon as your child is born or comes to live with you

Child Benefit can be backdated up to 3 months. Don't delay — apply online or using the CH2 paper form available at gov.uk.

2

Apply online via your Government Gateway account

Go to gov.uk/child-benefit/how-to-claim. You'll need your National Insurance number and your child's birth certificate details.

3

Set up a bank account for payments

Payments go directly into your bank account every 4 weeks. Ensure your bank details are correct on the claim form.

4

Check if the High Income Charge applies to you

If you or your partner earns over £60,000, register for Self Assessment at gov.uk — you'll repay Child Benefit through your tax return. You can still claim and bank it — just repay at year-end.

5

Keep your details updated

Tell HMRC if your child's circumstances change — leaving education, your income changes significantly, or you move abroad.

Apply on GOV.UK →

Need help while you wait for a decision?

Frequently asked questions

Can I claim Child Benefit if I'm not the biological parent?
Yes. You can claim if you're responsible for the child — including step-parents, grandparents, foster carers, and other relatives. The key test is that the child lives with you or you're contributing at least as much as the Child Benefit amount toward their care.
What is the High Income Child Benefit Charge?
If you or your partner earns over £60,000 per year, you pay back Child Benefit through a tax charge. You pay 1% back for every £200 earned over £60,000. At £80,000 income, you repay 100%. You can choose not to receive the payment but should still make a claim to protect your National Insurance record.
Will claiming Child Benefit affect my National Insurance record?
Yes — positively. Claiming Child Benefit (even if you opt out of the payment) protects your National Insurance record while you're caring for children under 12. This counts toward your State Pension. This is particularly important for parents who are not working.
What happens when my child turns 16?
Child Benefit stops automatically when your child turns 16 unless they continue in approved education or training. If they do, tell the Child Benefit Office — payments can continue until age 20.
Can both parents claim Child Benefit?
No. Only one person can claim Child Benefit for each child. If you separate, you need to agree who will claim. It should be the main carer.