Child Benefit payments are set to rise from next week, providing a welcome financial boost for millions of families across the UK. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging parents and carers to use the free HMRC app to claim and manage their Child Benefit with ease.
From 7 April 2025, the updated Child Benefit rates will see parents receiving:
- £26.05 per week (£1,354.60 annually) for their eldest or only child
- £17.25 per week (£897 annually) for each additional child
These payments are usually made every four weeks and will be paid directly into a nominated bank account. Notably, there is no restriction on the number of children for whom Child Benefit can be claimed.
In the previous tax year, the rates were set at £25.60 per week for the first child and £16.95 for each subsequent child.
Streamlined Claims with HMRC App
Over 1.2 million parents have now submitted their Child Benefit claims using the HMRC’s digital platform since its launch in May 2023. The department reports that more than 87% of claims are now made online.
The HMRC app allows users to:
- Submit new claims
- Notify HMRC of changes in circumstances
- Amend personal or bank account details
- Add further children to an existing claim
- View or print proof of entitlement
- Confirm their child is continuing in full-time education or approved training
“A new function in the app means they get a notification once their claim is received and payment in as little as three days,” HMRC stated.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, added: “Extra pounds count and Child Benefit can give your household budget a boost. Claiming online or managing your Child Benefit payments via the HMRC app is quick and easy so if you haven’t already, go to GOV.UK to start your claim today.”
To make a Child Benefit claim, parents are required to provide:
- The child’s birth or adoption certificate
- Bank account details
- National Insurance number for both themselves and their partner (if applicable)
- For children born outside the UK: original birth or adoption certificate and passport or travel document
Claims may be backdated for a maximum of three months, which is why HMRC advises families to submit their applications promptly following the birth of their child.
High-Income Child Benefit Charge and Enhanced Online Tools
Households where an individual earns between £60,000 and £80,000 could be liable for the High Income Child Benefit Charge. To assist with planning, a digital tax calculator is available on GOV.UK, allowing families to estimate both the benefit they may receive and any potential charge.
In a bid to simplify the process, the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves, announced a new initiative in the Spring Statement.
Starting in summer 2025, eligible working parents will be able to pay the charge directly through their PAYE tax code, removing the requirement to complete a self-assessment tax return.
This upcoming digital service will be optional, allowing those who prefer to continue using Self Assessment to do so. Parents who had previously opted out of Child Benefit payments will also have the opportunity to reinstate them quickly and easily online or through the HMRC app.
Additional Benefits and Eligibility
Child Benefit recipients also gain National Insurance credits, which contribute towards their State Pension eligibility. Additionally, children are automatically issued a National Insurance number at age 16 when a Child Benefit claim is in place.
Eligibility for Child Benefit generally applies if:
- You are responsible for a child under 16 living in the UK
- You live with the child or contribute equivalent costs (e.g. food, clothing, pocket money)
Child Benefit can continue for young people under 20 if they remain in approved education or training. In certain cases, such as fostering or adopting a child or caring for a friend or relative’s child, you may still be entitled to claim, provided no financial support is being received from the local authority.
Only one person can claim Child Benefit per child. If more than one person is responsible for a child, an agreement must be reached, or HMRC will determine who receives it. In situations where a child has lost one or both parents, the Guardian’s Allowance may also be available.
For further guidance and updates on Child Benefit, parents are advised to visit GOV.UK or use the HMRC app.
