His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has issued an early warning to thousands of UK parents as they risk having their child benefit suspended.
Parents of children who have turned 16 and are continuing their studies must notify HMRC in order to continue receiving child benefit payments.
Parents Urged to Notify HMRC to Continue Child Benefit Payments
Parents may still qualify for Child Benefit payments until August, 31st after their child reaches the age of 16. Alternatively, the benefit can be extended until they reach the age of 20 if they remain in education or training.
When the child turns 16, HMRC will send you a letter inquiring about their education or training plans.
HMRC states: “If you fail to update your details in time, you may still be able to claim Child Benefit, but your payments might be late.”
Child Benefit payments stop on 31 August after a child turns 16, but parents may still be able to extend their claim if their child is enrolled in an approved education or training programme.
Parents are also offered the option to update their Child Benefit record online through the HMRC website or app. Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC's Director General for Customer Services, stated: “Child Benefit can provide financial support to families, so make sure you don't miss out if your teenager is still eligible.
“You can quickly and easily extend your claim online or via the HMRC app.”
HMRC Highlights Crucial Updates to Report for Child Benefit Recipients
Parents who qualify for child benefit payments can receive up to £102.40 every four weeks for their first or only child and £67.80 every four weeks, for each additional child.
This implies that a household with two qualifying children would get £2,212.60 a year in child benefit payments. If your child is aged between 18 and 20, and is pursuing approved education or training, you are required to complete the CH297 form.
The benefit cap will apply to all of your Child Benefit payments. Your other benefits may be lowered if you are subject to the cap, but you will still receive your full Child Benefit payments.
If there are any changes in your situation or your Child's remember to inform HMRC to avoid any disruptions in your payments.
If you have changed location and forgot to update your information, you might end up missing out on your benefits.
You should also let the authorities know if there are any changes to your immigration status or if you no longer have the right to stay in the UK.
If you already have a pre-settled status, you must notify the authorities if your relationship status changes. If you begin a relationship or if you are sentenced to prison for over eight weeks.
If the parents of the children pass away or change their name or gender, you must also notify HMRC.
Make sure to inform HMRC of any updates regarding your child's situation.