HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is issuing a fresh call to action for families across the United Kingdom, highlighting that thousands could be missing out on significant financial support. The tax authority is specifically targeting households where the highest earner has an income below £80,000 per year, who may be entitled to claim Child Benefit.
What is Child Benefit and Who Can Claim?
Child Benefit is a regular payment from the government designed to help with the costs of raising a child. It is available to the parent or carer responsible for a child under the age of 16, or under 20 if they remain in approved full-time education or training. Crucially, only one person can claim the benefit for each child.
The current rates provide £26.05 per week for the eldest or only child, which adds up to £1,354.60 over a full year. For every additional child, families receive £17.25 per week. This means a household with two children – the most common family size – can get approximately £2,275 annually. For three children, the yearly total rises to around £3,172.
The High Income Threshold and State Pension Boost
Since April 2024, the rules have changed regarding who can receive the full benefit. The upper earnings limit for receiving any Child Benefit is now set at £80,000 per year. However, a taper system known as the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC) applies to individuals earning over £60,000 annually.
Beyond the immediate cash support, claiming Child Benefit carries a vital long-term advantage. It automatically builds up your National Insurance credits, which count towards your qualifying years for the full State Pension. This is a critical benefit that many may overlook if they opt out of receiving the payments due to the HICBC.
How to Claim and Upcoming Increases
HMRC is actively using its social media channels, including X, to prompt people to check their eligibility. One recent post urged: "Think you earn too much to receive Child Benefit payments? Check again to make sure you're not missing out on money." The authority directs people to use its online Child Benefit tax calculator.
Claims can be made just 48 hours after registering a child's birth or from when a child comes to live with you, and payments can be backdated for up to three months. Furthermore, the benefit is set for a welcome increase. From April 2026, rates will rise by 3.8%. The new weekly amounts will be:
- £27.05 for the eldest or only child (annual: £1,406.60).
- £17.90 for each additional child.
This means the annual value for two children will become £2,337.40, and £3,268.20 for three children. For families navigating the ongoing cost of living pressures, this money can provide a substantial and much-needed boost to household budgets.
