Child Benefit payments are expected to increase next month, giving families a financial boost.
Parents who get the benefit will notice an increase in their weekly payout starting in April 2025, according to confirmation from the government. In the UK, almost seven million families apply for Child Benefit.
With household spending, especially energy costs, rising along with child benefit rates, this boost comes at a perfect time for families struggling with the cost of living problem.
For their first child, families get a certain amount, and for each additional child, they get a little less. In contrast to other benefits like Child Tax Credits, parents are able to claim an unlimited number of children.
HMRC has confirmed that Child Benefit payments will rise from April 2025. Currently, parents receive £25.60 per week for their first child, but this will increase to £26.05. For each additional child, the weekly payment will go up from £16.95 to £17.25.
Parents or guardians are considered responsible for a child if they live with them or contribute at least the equivalent of the Child Benefit amount toward expenses like food, clothing, or pocket money. Special rules apply if the child is in hospital or under someone else’s care.
If a family structure changes due to separation or merging, eligibility rules may vary. Additionally, households earning above a certain threshold may have to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge.
Parents earning over £60,000 annually may be subject to a tax charge if they or their partner receive Child Benefit. They can either accept the benefit and pay the charge at the end of the tax year or opt out to avoid it.
Child Benefit is available to those responsible for a child under 16 or under 20 if they remain in approved education or training. Only one person can claim per child. Payments are typically made every four weeks on a Monday or Tuesday directly into the recipient’s bank account.
Parents can apply 48 hours after registering their child's birth or when the child starts living with them. Claims can be backdated by up to three months and are submitted online.
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