Millions of Families to Pocket Bigger Child Benefit from April
From next week, more than 6.9 million UK families claiming Child Benefit will see a pay rise, according to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). This increase means parents can expect more cash in their pockets to help with the cost of raising children.
How Much More Will You Get?
- The eldest or only child payment rises to £27.05 per week (£1,406.60 per year), up £52 annually.
- Each additional child now fetches £17.90 per week (£930.80 per year), an increase of £33.80.
- There’s no limit on how many children parents can claim for.
Don’t Miss Out – Claim Early
Despite millions claiming Child Benefit, only 72% of families apply in their baby’s first year. Remember, claims can only be backdated three months, so delaying could cost you.
Thousands of new parents are missing vital payments by putting off their claim. The fastest way to apply is through the free and secure HMRC app or online service.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, says: “Looking after a child can be expensive, especially a newborn. Claiming Child Benefit via the app takes just minutes and ensures you get the financial support you deserve.”
Manage Your Claim with Ease
Since April 2025, over 928,000 parents have used the HMRC app to:
- Make new claims
- Update circumstances
- Change bank details
- Add more children
- Print Proof of Entitlement
- Confirm children are continuing education
Payments are made every four weeks, automatically paid into your bank.
Know What You Need to Claim
To apply, parents will need:
- Child’s birth or adoption certificate
- Bank details
- National Insurance numbers for parents
- If child born abroad: birth certificate and passport or travel documents
Watch & Learn
HMRC’s YouTube video guides new parents on how to claim Child Benefit quickly.
Extra Help From MoneyHelper
Anna Sharkey from the Money and Pensions Service advises: “Try MoneyHelper’s free Benefits Calculator to check if you qualify for Child Benefit and other support. Use the Baby Cost Calculator and Baby Money Timeline to plan your finances.”
Visit MoneyHelper.org.uk for impartial money advice.
High Income Child Benefit Charge Warning
If you or your partner earn over £60,000, you might face the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC). Parents can use the HICBC PAYE digital service to pay via their tax code instead of Self Assessment.
Those opting out of payments can restart easily on the app or online, while still earning National Insurance credits.
Don’t delay – claim your Child Benefit now and bag the extra cash to help with those ever-rising costs!
