Families across the UK who claim Child Benefit will receive a boost this month, thanks to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) adjusting payment dates to account for the upcoming bank holidays. As reported by Express.co.uk, some recipients will receive their payments earlier than expected, providing extra cash in their accounts just in time for the May holidays.
Changes to Payment Dates Due to Bank Holidays
Child Benefit is usually paid every four weeks, either on a Monday or Tuesday, with the payment amounts varying depending on the number of children a claimant has. The payment is £26.05 per week for the first child, and £17.25 per week for any additional children.
Due to May’s bank holidays, which fall on Monday, May 5, and Monday, May 26, HMRC is adjusting the usual payment schedule to ensure that families still receive their benefits without delay. If your payment is typically due on one of these Mondays, it will instead be issued three days earlier. Payments due on May 5 will be made on Friday, May 2, while payments due on May 26 will arrive on Friday, May 23.
Extra Cash for Families
The changes in payment timing come after an increase in the Child Benefit rates on April 7, which resulted in parents receiving a higher allowance. For parents with one child, this means an extra £42.48 annually, while families with two children are better off by £15.60 per year.
Typically, Child Benefit payments are made monthly, with parents claiming for one child receiving around £104.20 per month. Those with more children receive a bit more, with the second child allowance adding up to £69 per month.
HMRC’s Advice to Claimants
HMRC has reminded parents to keep track of their payment schedules, especially around public holidays. As they explained: “Child Benefit is usually paid every 4 weeks on a Monday or Tuesday. There are different payment dates if it’s due on a bank holiday. You can work out when you’re next going to get Child Benefit by counting 4 weeks forward from your last payment. Do not count forward if your payment was due on a bank holiday – the dates are different.”
If you believe your payment has been delayed due to the bank holiday, it’s recommended that you contact your bank for clarification on when your payment will be available. While HMRC ensures payments are processed on time, bank closures on public holidays can sometimes cause delays.
