Parents and guardians have just two weeks left to inform HMRC of their child's plans after turning 16, or risk losing Child Benefit payments. The reminder comes as thousands of teenagers receive their exam results and decide their next steps, including staying in education, starting an apprenticeship, or entering training.
Child Benefit normally ends on August 31 after a child turns 16. However, payments can continue if the teenager remains in approved education or training. Parents must notify HMRC of these plans to ensure payments continue without interruption.
How much is Child Benefit worth?
Child Benefit increased by 3.8% in April 2026. Families can now receive £27.05 a week for their first or only child and £17.90 a week for each additional child. For a family with two children, the weekly payment is £44.95. Over a year, that works out at £1,406.60 for one child, with a further £930.80 available for each additional child.
The payments can provide an important source of financial support, particularly as household costs continue to put pressure on budgets.
Check eligibility and backdate claims
HMRC has reminded families not to assume they are automatically excluded from Child Benefit because of their earnings. The income threshold for the High Income Child Benefit Charge increased from £50,000 to £60,000, meaning some households may now be eligible for more support.
Families can use the online Child Benefit tax calculator to check how much they could receive and find out how to claim. Claims can be backdated by up to 12 weeks, so parents who have not yet applied may still recover missed payments. More information is available on the government website.
HMRC urges prompt action
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."
Parents should check what their teenager intends to do after their 16th birthday and update HMRC as soon as possible. Failing to report a change in circumstances could result in Child Benefit payments stopping when the child remains eligible.
