UK-wide
Child Benefit (CHB)
Last verified: 4 October 2026. We check the official source every night. How we verify.
A regular payment to help with the cost of bringing up a child. It is usually paid if you are responsible for a child under 16, or under 20 if they stay in approved education or training.
How much you could get
Figures below are for the 2026/27 tax year.
- Eldest or only child: £27.05 a week
- Each other child: £17.90 a week
Check the current amount on the official page.
Who can claim
You usually need to be responsible for a child who lives with you, and you or your partner must not have a very high income without opting out of the High Income Child Benefit Charge.
Eligibility conditions
These are the structured conditions Benefit Badger uses in the eligibility check. They are a guide, not a decision.
- You live in the UK.
- You are responsible for a child.
Check if Child Benefit may apply to you
It usually takes about 5 minutes. You do not need to create an account. This is guidance, not a government decision.
When it may not apply
You may have to pay a tax charge if you or your partner has income over the High Income Child Benefit threshold. You still often need to claim to protect National Insurance credits.
Where you live
Child Benefit is available UK-wide, but the claim route can still differ across nations.
Browse benefits in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, or the A–Z list.
Does Child Benefit affect Universal Credit?
Child Benefit is ignored as income for Universal Credit. You should still usually claim Child Benefit even if you get Universal Credit, including for National Insurance credits. The High Income Child Benefit Charge is a tax charge through HMRC, not a DWP deduction.
Child Tax Credit has ended for new claims. Help with children on a low income now sits in Universal Credit, with Scottish Child Payment extra if you live in Scotland.
How to claim
- Claim on GOV.UK even if your income is high. Child Benefit still often needs a claim to protect National Insurance credits. The High Income Child Benefit Charge is a tax issue, not a reason to skip the claim altogether. Official page
- Have the child’s birth details and your National Insurance number. HMRC’s online claim is the usual route. You will need the child’s name, date of birth and where they live.
- Choose who claims in a couple. Only one person can get Child Benefit for a child. The official page explains who should claim and how the tax charge is calculated.
- Report when a child leaves education or the household. Child Benefit can continue under 20 in approved education or training. Changes must be reported through the official HMRC service.
Official sources
- Child Benefit — GOV.UK (primary source)
Related benefits
See all children and pregnancy benefits.
What else you might claim
Source: HM Revenue & Customs. This page is guidance from an independent service, not a government decision. Only the relevant government department can confirm eligibility and make a payment.
Check if this may apply to you
It usually takes about 5 minutes. You do not need to create an account. This is guidance, not a government decision.