Over 1.2 million parents have already claimed their Child Benefit using the digital service, with more than 87% of claims now being made online
Parents and carers across the UK will see a boost in their Child Benefit payments starting next week, according to the latest announcement from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). From 7 April 2025, families can expect an increase in the amount they receive for their children, with the eldest or only child receiving £26.05 per week (£1,354.60 a year) and each additional child receiving £17.25 per week (£897 a year). These payments are typically made every four weeks and are automatically deposited into a bank account.
HMRC is encouraging parents to manage their Child Benefit claims through the HMRC app, which has seen significant uptake since its launch. Over 1.2 million parents have already claimed their Child Benefit using the digital service, with more than 87% of claims now being made online. The app offers a convenient and efficient way for parents to manage their benefits, providing notifications once a claim is received and payments processed in as little as three days.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, highlighted the importance of Child Benefit in supporting family budgets. “Extra pounds count and Child Benefit can give your household budget a boost,” she said. “Claiming online or managing your Child Benefit payments via the HMRC app is quick and easy, so if you haven’t already, go to GOV.UK to start your claim today.”
The HMRC app has been used over six million times in the past year for various purposes, including making new claims, updating changes in circumstances, amending personal or bank details, adding additional children to a claim, viewing or printing Proof of Entitlement to Child Benefit, and informing HMRC about children continuing in full-time, non-advanced education or approved training.
Parents are advised to claim Child Benefit as soon as possible after their baby is born, as claims can only be backdated up to three months. To make a claim, parents need to create an online HMRC account and provide the child’s birth or adoption certificate, bank details, and National Insurance numbers for themselves and their partner, if applicable. For children born outside the UK, an original birth or adoption certificate and passport or travel document are also required.
HMRC has released a new YouTube video to guide new parents through the claiming process, making it easier for them to navigate the system and ensure they receive the support they are entitled to.
However, families with a higher income may need to consider the High Income Child Benefit Charge. If either the claimant or their partner has an individual income between £60,000 and £80,000, the higher earner will be subject to this charge. The online Child Benefit tax calculator can help estimate the amount of benefit received and the potential charge.
In a recent announcement during the Spring Statement, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves unveiled a new service aimed at simplifying the process for eligible employed parents liable to the High Income Child Benefit Charge. From the summer, families will have the option to report their Child Benefit payments and pay the charge directly through their PAYE tax code, eliminating the need to file a Self Assessment tax return. This new digital service will be optional, allowing those who prefer to continue with Self Assessment to do so.
Families who have previously opted out of Child Benefit payments can easily restart their claims online or via the HMRC app. Even if they choose to opt out of receiving payments, individuals living in a household subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge will still receive National Insurance credits if they claim Child Benefit. These credits are crucial for future eligibility for the State Pension, especially for those not in paid employment or not receiving National Insurance credits through other means.
Claiming Child Benefit also ensures that children automatically receive their National Insurance number when they turn 16. The Child Benefit award notice, which can be downloaded and printed from the HMRC app or GOV.UK, serves as proof of entitlement and can be used to access other benefits and services.
HMRC will communicate the launch of the new digital service directly to affected parents, with further details and guidance available on GOV.UK. The Child Benefit rates for the 2024 to 2025 tax year were £25.60 a week for the first or only child and £16.95 for each additional child.
With these changes and enhancements, HMRC aims to make the claiming process more accessible and efficient, ensuring that families receive the support they need while simplifying administrative procedures
