What Age Does Child Benefit Stop?

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).

Standard Stopping Age

• Child Benefit stops on 31 August following your child’s 16th birthday if they leave approved education or training.

Continuation in Education or Training                   

• Child Benefit continues if your child stays in approved education or training beyond their 16th birthday.

• Approved education includes:

• Full-time education at school or college (e.g., A levels or equivalent).

• Home education, if it started before your child turned 16 or after 16 if they have special needs.

• Some types of unpaid training or work-based learning (e.g., Foundation Learning).

Informing HMRC

• You must notify HMRC if your child stays in or leaves approved education or training.

• You will receive a letter from HMRC in your child's last year at school, asking you to confirm their plans.

• Only the person who is claiming Child Benefit can update HMRC about their child’s plans.

Important Points

• One Claimant: Only one person can claim Child Benefit for a child.

• No Limit on Number of Children: There is no limit to how many children you can claim for.

• Regular Review: HMRC will periodically review your claim to ensure it remains accurate.

Steps to Continue Receiving Child Benefit

1. Receive Notification: Look out for the letter from HMRC in the last year of your child's schooling.

2. Confirm Plans: Respond to HMRC’s letter confirming whether your child will continue in approved education or training.

3. Update HMRC: If plans change, immediately inform HMRC to ensure you continue to receive Child Benefit without interruption.

Key Contact for Child Benefit

• HMRC Child Benefit Office:

• Phone: 0300 200 3100

• Online: Personal Tax Account

• Post: Child Benefit Office, PO Box 1, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE88 1AA

By understanding these details and ensuring timely communication with HMRC, you can manage your Child Benefit effectively, ensuring you receive the appropriate benefits for as long as you are eligible.