HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has published a full list of changes that Child Benefit claimants must report to avoid payment disruptions. The reminder comes after Child Benefit rates increased in April 2025, in line with the 3.8% inflation rate from September 2024.
Child Benefit is available to parents or guardians responsible for a child under 16, or under 20 if they are in approved education or training. Only one person can receive the benefit per child. HMRC warns that failing to report changes could result in underpayment or overpayment, which may need to be repaid.
Changes that must be reported include a child leaving education or training, which automatically stops the claim on 31 August after their 16th birthday. Other changes involve the claimant’s or child’s personal circumstances, such as a child obtaining a Gender Recognition Certificate—though HMRC will usually be notified automatically. If the child has not legally changed gender, no report is needed.
HMRC advises that only the person claiming Child Benefit can report changes. Claimants awaiting a response after reporting a change should check with HMRC on the expected reply time. The full list of reportable changes is available on the GOV.UK website.
