HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has confirmed that some UK households claiming Child Benefit will experience payment changes in July, with potential delays for those in Northern Ireland due to a bank holiday. The standard Child Benefit payment of £108.20 every four weeks may be disrupted for claimants expecting payments on Monday, July 13, or Tuesday, July 14, because of the Battle of the Boyne (Orangeman's Day) bank holiday on Monday, July 13.
Payment Delay Details for Northern Ireland
HMRC stated that while July payments will be sent on the scheduled day, processing times may be affected by bank closures. Households due to be paid on Monday, July 13, can expect payments from Tuesday, July 14, while those expecting payment on Tuesday, July 14, may receive it on Wednesday, July 15. HMRC noted that payments can take up to three working days to clear, and bank holidays during this period may cause delays. The exact date varies by bank, as some credit payments sooner.
No Impact for Other UK Regions
This delay only affects Child Benefit claimants in Northern Ireland. Claimants in England, Scotland, and Wales will receive payments on their usual dates. HMRC advises that Child Benefit is typically paid every four weeks on a Monday or Tuesday, with different dates if due on a bank holiday. Claimants can calculate their next payment by counting four weeks forward from their last payment, but should not do so if the last payment was due on a bank holiday.
2026/27 Payment Rate Increase
As of April 6, 2026, Child Benefit rates increased by 3.8% for the 2026/27 tax year, adding £1 per week for the first child and 65p per week for each subsequent child. Weekly rates are now £27.05 for the eldest child and £17.90 for additional children, amounting to £108.20 every four weeks for one child and an extra £71.90 for additional children. Over a year, this totals £1,406.60 for the eldest child and £930.80 for each additional child, with no cap on the number of children.
Government Statement on Uplift
James Murray, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, confirmed the 3.8% increase, stating: “The Tax Credits Act 2002 and Social Security Administration Act 1992 place a statutory duty on His Majesty’s Treasury to review the rates of child benefit each year in line with the general level of prices... I have decided to increase child benefit rates in line with the consumer prices index for the year to September 2025, which is 3.8%.” Guardian’s allowance also increased by the same rate to £22.95 per week.
Eligibility and Claiming
Child Benefit is available to parents or guardians responsible for a child under 16, or under 20 if in approved education or training. Payments are made every four weeks by HMRC.
