As a parent, providing for your child’s well-being and upbringing is a top priority. In the United Kingdom, the government offers a range of benefits to support families with their childcare costs.
One of the most significant benefits is Child Benefit, a tax-free payment made to eligible parents or guardians to help with the expenses of raising a child. In this article, we will know details of child benefits, including how to claim them, the rates, and when does child benefit stop?
What is Child Benefit?
Child Benefit is a tax-free payment made by the UK government to eligible parents or guardians to help with the costs of raising a child. The benefit is paid every four weeks directly into the claimant’s bank account.
The amount of Child Benefit varies depending on the number of children in the household and the claimant’s income.
Who is eligible for Child Benefit?
To be eligible for Child Benefits, you must be responsible for bringing up a child and meet certain criteria. The following individuals are eligible to claim Child Benefit:
- Biological parents
- Adoptive parents
- Foster parents
- Guardians
- Step-parents (if they have custody of the child)
- Civil partners
How to claim Child Benefit
Claiming Child Benefits is a straightforward process. You can apply online, by phone, or by post. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Check if you are eligible or not: Before applying, check if you are eligible for Child Benefit. You can use the government’s Child Benefit calculator to determine your eligibility.
- required documents: You will need to provide proof of identity, proof of address, and proof of your child’s birth or adoption.
- Apply online: Visit the GOV.UK website and fill out the online application form. You will need to provide your personal and child’s details, as well as your National Insurance number.
- Apply by phone: You can also apply by phone by calling the Child Benefit helpline on 0300 200 3100.
- Apply by post: You can download and print the application form from the GOV.UK website and send it to the Child Benefit office.
Child Benefit rates
The amount of child benefits you receive depends on the number of children in your household and your income. For the 2024-25 tax year, the rates are as follows:
- For the eldest or only child: £25.60 per week
- For each additional child: £16.95 per week
There is no upper limit to the number of children you can claim for, but the amount of Child Benefit you receive will be reduced if your income exceeds certain thresholds.
When does Child Benefit stop?
Child Benefit stops when your child reaches the age of 16 unless they are in certain types of education or training. If your child is:
- In full-time education (e.g., at school, college, or university)
- In a registered childcare setting (e.g., nursery, playgroup, or after-school club)
- In a hospital or care home
- In a special school or residential care
- Under the age of 20 and in a training scheme (e.g., apprenticeship, vocational training, or work experience)
You can continue to claim Child Benefit for your child until they reach the age of 16 or 17 if they are in education or training.
High-Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC)
If you or your partner have an income above £60,000, you may be subject to the High-Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC). This charge is 1% of the total Child Benefit received for each £200 of income above £60,000. For example, if your income is £65,000, you will pay 1% of the Child Benefit for each £200 above £60,000, which is £1.50 per week.
Changes to Child Benefit in 2024
In the 2024-25 tax year, Child Benefit rates will increase by £83.20 for the eldest or only child and £54.60 for each additional child. Additionally, the High-Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC) threshold will increase to £80,000.
Moreover:
The following changes have been made to child benefits in the UK as of 2024:
- The income threshold for the high-income child benefit charge has been increased from £50,000 to £60,000. This means that families with a combined income of £60,000 or less will not have to pay the child benefit tax charge.
- The amount of child benefits paid to families has increased. The amount paid for the eldest or only child is £25.60 per week and £16.95 per week for each additional child.
- The government has announced plans to move to a child benefit system based on household income by April 2026.
Some more changes are:
- The Chancellor has also announced that families will no longer have to pay any of their child benefits back until they start earning £60,000 a year.
- The changes are expected to benefit around 170,000 families with children, with some families saving an average of £1,300 per year.
- The government has also increased the amount of child benefit paid to families, with the gain for someone earning £60,000 and having two children being £2,212 per year and £3,094 per year for someone with three children.
Important Dates
- April 2024: The new child benefit rates and thresholds come into effect.
- April 2026: The government plans to move to a child benefit system based on household income.
Conclusion
Child Benefits are essential support for families in the UK, helping to alleviate the financial burden of raising a child. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and rates, you can ensure that you receive the support you need to provide for your child’s well-being.
Remember to claim Child Benefit as soon as possible after your child’s birth or adoption, and keep your details up to date to avoid any delays or issues with your payments.
Some Questions
How do I claim Child Benefit?
You can claim Child Benefit online, by phone, or by post. Visit the GOV.UK website for more information.
What is the High-Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC)?
The HICBC is charged 1% of the total child benefit received for each £200 of income above £60,000.
When does Child Benefit stop?
Child Benefit stops when your child reaches the age of 16 unless they are in certain types of education or training.
Can I claim Child Benefits for multiple children?
Yes, there is no upper limit to the number of children you can claim for, but the amount of Child Benefit you receive will be reduced if your income exceeds certain thresholds.
How do I check my Child Benefit eligibility?
You can use the government’s Child Benefit calculator to determine your eligibility.
Can I claim Child Benefits if I am a single parent?
Yes, single parents are eligible to claim Child Benefit.
Can I claim Child Benefit if I am a foster parent?
Yes, foster parents are eligible to claim Child Benefits for the children in their care.
