HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) recently issued an important reminder to eligible households not to overlook the possibility of claiming up to £1,331 a year in child benefit for newborn babies. It is even possible to receive the first payment in just three days.
Newborn Child Benefit
Child Benefit is a government initiative intended to help parents or guardians who have children under the age of 16, or up to the age of 20 if they are in accredited education or training. The allowance pays £25.60 per week for the first child and £16.95 for each additional child.
The HMRC pointed this out in a recent update on social networks: ‘Have a new baby? Don't miss out on up to £1,331 a year in child benefit. Apply online to receive your first payment in just three days.’
👶 Got a newborn?
Don't miss out on up to £1,331 a year with Child Benefit.
Apply online to get your first payment in as little as three days.
⬇️— HM Revenue & Customs (@HMRCgovuk) April 28, 2024
The recent changes to the child benefit rules mean that more high-income families can now claim child benefit. Income thresholds at which you are required to repay child benefit have been increased from £50,000 to £60,000 per year.
If a member of the household earns more than £60,000, the rate of benefit repayment is 1% for every £200 earned over that limit. For those earning more than £80,000, all child benefit must be repaid, reducing the benefit to zero. Previously, the threshold for full repayment was £60,000.
Eligibility for Child Benefit
Child Benefit is only payable to one individual for one child. You would normally be entitled to Child Benefit if you are caring for a child under 16 and living in the UK.
Generally speaking, you are responsible for a child if:
- You live with them
- You’re paying at least the same amount as Child Benefit (or the equivalent in kind) towards looking after them - for example on food, clothes or pocket money
If Your Child is 16 or Over
Basically, you are always entitled to child benefit if your child is under 20 and in approved education or training.
In this case, you can claim continued child benefit for 20 weeks if a 16 or 17-year-old leaves education or training and registers with either of the two organisations:
- A Government-sponsored careers service
- The armed services
Child benefit can also be claimed if you have adopted a child, as well as in certain situations where you are looking after the child of a friend or relative. Please contact the Child Benefit Office to find out more.
