Thousands of parents are being urged to act before a critical deadline this month to keep receiving Child Benefit. Families who missed the August 31 cut-off to notify HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) that their 16 to 19 year old was continuing in approved education or training had their payments automatically stopped on September 1. However, parents and carers still have an opportunity to reinstate their claims and secure their full financial entitlement, as long as they act by November 30, 2026.
Since Child Benefit claims can be backdated for up to three months, meeting this precise deadline ensures families won't miss out on any money they're owed since the September cut-off. The benefit provides £27.05 weekly for the eldest or only child, and £17.90 for each additional child. With no cap on the number of children you can claim for, this money offers a vital financial lifeline for the more than seven million families currently receiving it.
Who qualifies for Child Benefit?
Child Benefit can be claimed by those responsible for children under 16, or under 20 if they remain in approved education or training. To be eligible, the child must usually live with you, or you must contribute at least the equivalent amount towards their upkeep. Remember that only one person may claim where two people are caring for the same child.
Approved education encompasses courses including A-Levels, NVQs, and home education. According to HMRC regulations, payments can also continue for young people who begin approved training, or those required to study at home due to illness or disability. However, university degrees or BTEC qualifications are strictly excluded. Once your child leaves their approved education or training, the payments will formally cease.
If your child is merely commencing the second year of a full-time, non-advanced education course, you needn't contact HMRC as your payments will continue automatically.
How to restart your claim
HMRC said: "There is still time to help your parent or carer employees receive the Child Benefit payments they are entitled to. Anyone who wants to continue receiving Child Benefit should act before 30 November 2026 to get their full entitlement."
Officials confirmed that while payments ceased automatically for those who missed the August deadline, claims can be easily reinstated. Parents and carers can update their information within minutes via the official HMRC app or online, eliminating the need to wait on hold to telephone HMRC directly.
However, higher earners should remain vigilant. Any parent or carer extending their Child Benefit claim faces potential charges if they or their partner earns above £60,000. In such cases, they'll be liable for the High-Income Child Benefit Charge, which can now be settled conveniently through their PAYE tax code.
