HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has issued an urgent alert to UK parents with more than one child, warning that many may be missing out on up to £930 a year or more in unclaimed Child Benefit payments. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on June 26, 2026, HMRC reminded eligible parents that they can claim the tax-free benefit for each of their children.
What Is Child Benefit?
Child Benefit is a government payment designed to help parents or guardians with the costs of raising children. It is tax-free and paid every four weeks. For the first child, the benefit is worth approximately £1,406 per year, or £27.05 per week. For each additional child, parents can receive just over £930 per year, or £17.90 per week. There is no limit on the number of children for whom you can claim, though only one person may claim per child if two individuals share care.
HMRC's Urgent Reminder
The HMRC post stated: "Have more than one child? Claim Child Benefit now and you could receive: £27.05/week for your eldest child [and] £17.90/week for each additional child. You'll also get National Insurance credits to protect your State Pension - even if you're not currently working. Claim via the HMRC app or online now."
Additional Benefits and Eligibility
In addition to the cash payments, claiming Child Benefit provides National Insurance credits that help protect your State Pension entitlement. This is particularly important for parents who are not currently working or have gaps in their employment history. Higher earners should be aware that they may need to repay some or all of their Child Benefit through the High Income Child Benefit Charge.
High Income Child Benefit Charge
If you or your partner earn more than £60,000 per year, you must repay 1% of your Child Benefit for every £200 earned above this threshold. Once earnings exceed £80,000, the entire amount of Child Benefit received must be repaid. The income threshold was raised from £50,000 to £60,000 in April 2024, which may have made more families eligible for full payments.
How to Claim
Parents can claim Child Benefit via the HMRC app or online. HMRC urges all eligible families to check their entitlement, especially those with multiple children, as the combined annual benefit can be significant. For example, a family with three children could receive over £3,200 per year.
