UK-wideClosed to new claims
Child Tax Credit (CTC)
Last verified: 4 October 2026. We check the official source every night. How we verify.
Child Tax Credit has ended for new claims. It was an HMRC payment for people responsible for children. Universal Credit and Child Benefit are the usual current routes.
How much you could get
There is no current rate for a new claim. Child Benefit rates are listed on the Child Benefit page, which is a different payment.
Check the current amount on the official page.
Who can claim
You cannot make a new Child Tax Credit claim. Child Benefit is separate and still exists. Help with children on a low income is usually through Universal Credit, plus Scottish Child Payment if you live in Scotland.
When it may not apply
New claims are closed. If you still have a tax credit award, HMRC’s move-to-Universal-Credit process applies. Do not ignore those letters.
Where you live
Child Tax Credit was a UK-wide payment. New claims are closed.
Browse benefits in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, or the A–Z list.
What replaced Child Tax Credit?
Universal Credit replaced Child Tax Credit for new claims. Child Benefit still exists and is separate. If you live in Scotland and get a qualifying benefit, also check Scottish Child Payment.
How to claim
- Child Tax Credit is closed to new claims. Child Tax Credit was replaced by Universal Credit for most people. You cannot make a new claim for it. Read GOV.UK on tax credits ending and what to do instead. Official page
- If you still have a tax credit award, follow HMRC’s current instructions. Remaining awards are being moved. Only the letters and GOV.UK pages from HMRC describe your deadline and what happens to childcare or disability elements.
- Check Universal Credit before tax credits stop. There can be rules about when to claim UC so you are not left without payment. GOV.UK’s “move to Universal Credit” guidance is the one to follow.
- Do not use a paid “tax credit renewal” website. HMRC does not charge for this. Benefit Badger cannot renew or restore a tax credit claim.
Official sources
- Child Tax Credit — GOV.UK (primary source)
- Universal Credit — GOV.UK
Replaces and replaced by
Child Tax Credit has been replaced by Universal Credit.
Related benefits
See all children and pregnancy benefits.
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.