A problem that prevented certain child benefit payments from arriving on time has affected about 500,000 people.

Around 500,000 persons were impacted by the approximately 30% of child benefit payments that were supposed to be made on Monday.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has expressed regret and stated that it is attempting to find a quick solution.

An HMRC spokesperson said: “We’re sorry that some customers’ child benefit payments have not arrived as scheduled and we are working urgently to resolve the issue.

“The issues that caused payment problems today will not impact payments scheduled for tomorrow.”

Child benefit is usually paid every four weeks on a Monday or a Tuesday.

Some people may receive the benefit weekly, for example if they are a single parent or receiving certain other benefits, such as universal credit.

HMRC also placed a statement on X, formerly Twitter, which said: “We’re sorry that some customers’ Child Benefit payments have not arrived as scheduled and we are working urgently to resolve the issue.

“There’s no need for customers to call us and we will provide updates here as soon as they are available.”

As of August 2023, 6.91 million families were in receipt of child benefit payments.

The weekly child benefit allowance is generally £25.60 for an eldest or only child and £16.95 per child for additional children.

people may be eligible for child benefit if they are responsible for a child under 16 and live in the UK.