How do I claim child benefit?

Child benefit claims by new parents can now be made online.  

For the first time since child benefit was launched in 1977, paper forms will no longer need to be posted by new parents to claim child benefit. Claims can now be easily made using HM Revenue and Custom’s (HMRC) online service from 48 hours after you’ve registered the birth of your child, or a child comes to live with you. 

As well as the claims process being quick and simple, the new online service will also reduce the wait for your first child benefit payment. New parents used to have to wait around 16 weeks for their first payment, but they could now see payments in as little as three days. 

Child benefit is usually paid every 4 weeks at the following rates (2024/25): 

	Rate (weekly)	Rate (4-weekly)	Rate (annually)
Eldest or only child	£25.60	£102.40	£1,331.20
Additional children	£16.95 per child	£67.80	£881.40

The person making the claim for child benefit will get National Insurance credits towards their state pension, so if one person is not working it may be better for them to make the claim. 

While the online process is online, the eligibility and rules around child benefit can be complicated. If you use an accountant, discuss with them whether you may be subject to the high income child benefit charge. Once you or your partner have individual income over £60,000 and someone is receiving child benefit for a child living with you then you may have to pay the charge. 

If you are part of a separated or blended family, your entitlement may be different. 

Tips for applying for child benefit

1. Ensure you have all the documents you need: 

• The child’s birth or adoption certificate 
• Your bank or building society details 
• Your National Insurance number 
• Your partners’ National Insurance number (if applicable) 

2. If the child’s birth was registered outside the UK you’ll need to send the original birth or adoption certificate and the child’s passport or travel document they used to enter the UK to support your application. 

If you’re unable to claim online, you can still claim by post or telephone. 

Date published 8 Jan 2024 | Last updated 12 Apr 2024

This article is intended to inform rather than advise and is based on legislation and practice at the time. Taxpayer’s circumstances do vary and if you feel that the information provided is beneficial it is important that you contact us before implementation. If you take, or do not take action as a result of reading this article, before receiving our written endorsement, we will accept no responsibility for any financial loss incurred.

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