Child Benefit is a financial support provided by the UK government to families with children.
It can help with the costs of raising children, such as food, clothing, and education.
While it’s not a substantial amount to cover all expenses, it can provide a welcome financial boost.
How Much is Child Benefit?
Child Benefit is paid at a weekly rate. For the first child, you’ll receive £25.60 per week, and for any additional children, it’s £16.95 per week.
These rates are for the 2023/2024 tax year.
To calculate the monthly amount, you can multiply the weekly rate by 4.33 (the average number of weeks in a month).
So, for your first child, it would be approximately £110.77 per month, and for each additional child, it would be around £73.52 per month.
It’s important to note that these are approximate figures, as the exact amount you receive might vary slightly depending on the specific month.
Who is Eligible for Child Benefit?
You can claim Child Benefit if you’re responsible for a child under 16 (or under 20 if they’re still in full-time education or training).
Only one person can claim Child Benefit for a child, so you’ll need to decide who will claim it if both parents are eligible.
When is Child Benefit Paid?
Child Benefit is usually paid every four weeks. The exact payment date depends on when you first claimed the benefit.
You can check your payment date on your Child Benefit award notice or online through your Government Gateway account.
Can I Claim Child Benefit if I Work?
Yes, you can claim Child Benefit even if you work. There’s no income threshold for claiming Child Benefit.
However, it’s worth noting the High Income Child Benefit Charge, which we’ll discuss later.
How Do I Claim Child Benefit?
You can claim Child Benefit online through the Government Gateway or by completing a paper form.
You’ll need to provide information about yourself, your child, and your bank details.
What Happens if My Circumstances Change?
You need to inform the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) of any changes to your circumstances, such as a change of address, a new child, or a child leaving education.
You can do this online or by phone.
High Income Child Benefit Charge
If either you or your partner has an income over £50,000, you might need to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge.
This is a tax charge based on your income.
You can choose to stop receiving Child Benefit payments to avoid this charge, but it’s important to consider the impact on your State Pension, as Child Benefit contributions build up National Insurance credits.
Child Benefit and Universal Credit
If you’re claiming Universal Credit, the amount of Child Benefit you receive will affect your Universal Credit payment.
The government will reduce your Universal Credit by a percentage of your Child Benefit.
Can I Get Child Benefit if I’m Self-Employed?
Yes, you can claim Child Benefit if you’re self-employed.
You’ll need to provide information about your self-employment when you make your claim.
How Long Can I Claim Child Benefit?
You can claim Child Benefit until your child is 16 or 20 if they’re still in full-time education or training.