What You Need To Know About Child Benefit

Millions of parents in the UK claim Child Benefit every year.  Child Benefit is a payment that you can claim for your child or children and it is paid either weekly or every four weeks.

Different rates of Child Benefit apply to each child and anyone who is eligible can claim the benefit.  It is not affected by your income, savings or assets.

Our guide tells you everything you need to know about child benefit.

Who is eligible for Child Benefit?

If you are responsible for bringing up a child you can normally claim Child Benefit for them.  This is the case even if you are not their parent or if the child does not live with you.

You can normally claim Child Benefit even if your son or daughter does not live with you, as long as:

• You pay something towards their upkeep
• The amount that you pay is at least equal to the amount of Child Benefit
• The person that your child lives with is not already claiming Child Benefit for them

If you and someone else claim Child Benefit for the same child, only one of you will be entitled to receive it.

When do Child Benefit payments stop?

Child Benefit payments usually stop when your child reaches 16.  However, if they remain in education or training that counts for Child Benefit it will continue until they are aged 20.

Only certain types of education and training count for Child Benefit purposes.  For example, a university degree does not count.

How much Child Benefit will you get?

Currently, you receive £20.30 per week for your oldest/only child.  If you have other children you will receive £13.40 a week for each of these.

How is Child Benefit paid?

Child Benefit is normally paid every four weeks into your bank or building society account.  If you receive income support, income based Jobseeker’s Allowance or some other benefits you may qualify to receive your Child Benefit weekly.

Do you pay tax on your Child Benefit?

No.  Child Benefit payments are tax-free.