How Much is Child Benefit?

Child Benefit is a tax-free payment provided by the UK government to help families with the costs of raising children. It is available to anyone responsible for a child, regardless of income, although high earners may be subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC). This article provides a comprehensive overview of how much Child Benefit you can receive, how to apply, and factors affecting the payment amounts.

As of the 2024/25 tax year, the weekly rates for Child Benefit are:

• Eldest or Only Child: £25.60 per week

• Additional Children: £16.95 per week for each additional child

Example Child Benefit Calculation

If you have three children, your weekly Child Benefit payment would be calculated as follows:

• £25.60 for the eldest child

• £16.95 for the second child

• £16.95 for the third child

Total weekly Child Benefit: £59.50

High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC)

If you or your partner earns more than £50,000 a year, you may have to pay back some or all of your Child Benefit in the form of the High Income Child Benefit Charge. This charge is calculated based on your adjusted net income and is payable through the Self Assessment tax return system.

• Earnings Between £50,000 and £60,000: You will repay 1% of your Child Benefit for every £100 of income over £50,000.

• Earnings Over £60,000: You will repay all of your Child Benefit through the HICBC.

How to Claim Child Benefit

To claim Child Benefit, you need to complete and send in a Child Benefit claim form (CH2). You can download this form from the UK government website or request one by phone.

1. Fill in the Form: Provide your details and information about the child or children you are claiming for.

2. Submit the Form: Send the completed form to the Child Benefit Office, along with any required documents (such as birth certificates).

Factors Affecting Child Benefit Payments

Several factors can influence your Child Benefit payments:

• Change in Circumstances: If your family circumstances change, such as if your child leaves education or training, you must inform the Child Benefit Office to ensure your payments are adjusted accordingly.

• Backdating: Child Benefit can be backdated for up to three months from the date of your claim. If you delay claiming, you might miss out on some payments.

• Shared Care: If you share care of your child with someone else, only one person can claim Child Benefit. You must decide who will claim if the child spends an equal amount of time with both carers.

Benefits of Claiming Child Benefit

Even if you or your partner earns over £50,000, it can still be beneficial to claim Child Benefit:

• National Insurance Credits: Claiming Child Benefit can help protect your entitlement to State Pension, as it provides National Insurance credits if you are not working or earning enough to pay National Insurance contributions.

• Child’s National Insurance Number: Your child will automatically receive their National Insurance number just before they turn 16 if you claim Child Benefit.

Conclusion

Child Benefit is a valuable support for families in the UK, providing financial assistance for the costs of raising children. Understanding the rates, application process, and potential impacts of the High Income Child Benefit Charge is crucial for making the most of this benefit. If you have any changes in circumstances, ensure you inform the Child Benefit Office promptly to avoid overpayments or underpayments.