A Step-by-Step Guide
aising children is a rewarding journey, but it can also bring financial challenges—especially during the early years. The good news is that the UK government offers Child Benefit, a regular payment to help families with the cost of raising children. If you’re unsure how to claim it or whether you’re eligible, this guide walks you through the process clearly and simply.
What Is Child Benefit?
Child Benefit is a tax-free payment made to parents or guardians responsible for a child under 16 (or under 20 if they’re in approved education or training). It’s usually paid every four weeks, directly into your bank account.
There are two Child Benefit rates:
- £25.60 per week for the eldest or only child
- £16.95 per week for each additional child
(Rates as of April 2024 — always check GOV.UK for the latest figures)
Over a year, that adds up to over £1,300 for one child—money that can make a real difference.
Who Can Claim?
You can claim Child Benefit if:
- You’re responsible for a child under 16 (or under 20 in full-time approved education or training)
- You live in the UK
- You have a UK bank or building society account
Only one person can receive Child Benefit for a child, even if both parents are involved in their care.
💡 Top Tip: Even if you choose not to receive the payment (due to the High Income Child Benefit Charge, explained below), it’s still worth registering your claim. This protects your entitlement to National Insurance credits, which help build up your State Pension.
How to Apply for Child Benefit
📝 Step 1: Register the Birth
Before you can claim, your child must be registered. In most areas of the UK, you’ll receive a birth certificate at the registration appointment, which you’ll need for your Child Benefit claim.
🌐 Step 2: Get a Child Benefit Form (CH2)
You can:
- Download and print the CH2 form from the GOV.UK website, or
- Call the Child Benefit helpline on 0300 200 3100 to ask for a paper form
If you’re claiming for more than one child, you’ll also need a CH2(CS) continuation sheet.
✉️ Step 3: Send Your Application by Post
Mail the completed form, along with your child’s original birth certificate (not a copy), to:
Child Benefit Office
HM Revenue and Customs
BX9 1AS
United Kingdom
They will return your child’s birth certificate after processing your claim.
When Will Payments Start?
Child Benefit can be backdated for up to 3 months, so don’t worry if you didn’t claim right away.
Once approved, payments are usually made every four weeks on a Monday or Tuesday, though you can sometimes request weekly payments if you’re a single parent or receiving certain benefits.
What If I Earn Over £50,000?
If you or your partner earn over £50,000 per year, you may have to pay back some or all of your Child Benefit through the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC).
- Earn £50,000–£60,000? You’ll pay back part of the benefit via your Self Assessment tax return.
- Earn over £60,000? You may have to pay it all back.
But here’s the key: you can still register for Child Benefit and choose not to receive the payments to avoid the tax charge. This ensures you still get National Insurance credits and your child is automatically issued a National Insurance number at 16.
Common Questions
Q: Can I claim Child Benefit online?
At the moment, new claims must be sent by post. However, you can manage your Child Benefit online once you’re registered.
Q: I’m fostering or adopting—can I claim?
Yes, if you’re the main person responsible for the child and no one else is already claiming Child Benefit for them.
Q: How long does it take to process?
Usually 6 to 12 weeks, but it may take longer if additional checks are needed.
Support If You’re Struggling
If you’re facing financial hardship, claiming Child Benefit can be one small step toward easing the pressure. You might also be eligible for:
- Universal Credit
- Free school meals
- Healthy Start vouchers (for young children or pregnancy)
- Local authority grants or hardship funds
Charities like Turn2Us, Citizens Advice, and StepChange can also help you explore your options without judgment.
Final Thoughts
Applying for Child Benefit might seem like a small task—but it’s an important one. It puts extra money in your pocket, helps protect your future State Pension, and opens doors to other types of support. Whether you’re a new parent, adopting, or just trying to get things sorted after a difficult patch, this is one step worth taking.
💬 If you have any questions about Child Benefit or need help with other aspects of budgeting or debt management, don’t hesitate to reach out or drop a comment below.
You deserve support—and you’re not alone.