The benefit is worth £26.05 a week for your first child, then £17.25 for any additional children – but parents need to be aware of certain rules
If you’re a parent or carer receiving Child Benefit, it’s important to know that payments for thousands of people may stop by May 31. Child Benefit is financial help given to those responsible for raising a child. But when your child leaves approved education or training, the payments can end quickly, depending on the timing.
With over seven million families currently receiving Child Benefit, many might not realise that these payments are not guaranteed forever. If you miss the deadline or your child’s situation changes, you could lose out on this helpful support.
What is Child Benefit and Who Can Claim?
Child Benefit is paid weekly to help parents or guardians with the cost of raising a child. The current payment rates are:
- £26.05 per week for your first child
- £17.25 for each additional child
You can claim if:
- You are responsible for a child under 16
- Or the child is under 20 and still in approved education or training
Approved education includes things like A-Levels, NVQs, and home education. However, it does not cover university degrees or BTEC courses.
To keep getting Child Benefit, the child must usually live with you, or you must pay at least the same amount as Child Benefit towards their care. Even adoptive parents, foster carers, or relatives looking after someone else’s child may be eligible.
Only one person can claim for a child, even if both parents or guardians are involved.
When Will Child Benefit Payments Stop?
Child Benefit payments stop when your child finishes approved education or training. The payments will end on the first of the following dates after they leave:
- February 28
- May 31
- August 31
- November 30
So, if your child has left their education or training recently, your last payment might be on May 31.
What High Earners Need to Know
If you or your partner earns more than £60,000 per year, you may have to pay back some or all of the Child Benefit. This is called the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC).
Here’s how it works:
- For every £200 you earn over £60,000, you repay 1% of your Child Benefit.
- If you earn over £80,000, you’ll have to repay the entire amount.
This is usually done through a self-assessment tax return. But a new digital system is expected by summer 2025, allowing families to repay the charge automatically via their PAYE tax code.
Should You Still Claim Child Benefit?
Yes, even if you don’t want to receive the money, you can still register for Child Benefit without getting the payments. This allows you to get National Insurance credits, which help with your State Pension in the future.
In April 2024, the income limit for paying the Child Benefit tax charge was increased from £50,000 to £60,000. HMRC also encouraged families to reconsider claiming if they had previously opted out and now earn less than £80,000, as they might be missing out on valuable support.
Child Benefit is a great way to get extra financial support while raising a child. But it’s important to stay updated on deadlines and changes. Payments may end on May 31 if your child has left education or training. High earners also need to watch out for tax charges, but the new limit gives more families a chance to benefit.
Whether you choose to receive the payments or not, registering still helps your future pension. So, don’t miss out check your status and update your details with HMRC today.
FAQ
How much is Child Benefit in 2025?
As of now, the weekly rates are £26.05 for the first child and £17.25 for each additional child.
Can I claim Child Benefit and not receive payments?
Yes, you can claim without getting the money to earn National Insurance credits for your State Pension. This is useful for high-income earners.
Who is eligible to claim Child Benefit?
Anyone responsible for a child under 16, or under 20 if still in approved education or training. This includes parents, adopters, foster carers, and relatives.
When do Child Benefit payments stop?
Child Benefit payments can stop on February 28, May 31, August 31, or November 30—whichever comes first after your child leaves approved education or training.
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