The short version: Child Benefit is a tax free payment for anyone responsible for bringing up a child under 16 (or under 20 if they’re in approved education or training). Only one person can claim per child.
How much is it?
You get a weekly amount for your first child and a smaller amount for each additional child. The exact figures change each tax year, so check gov.uk for current rates.
You also get National Insurance credits, which count towards your State Pension.
The catch for higher earners
If you or your partner earn above a certain threshold, you’ll have to pay some or all of it back through something called the High Income Child Benefit Charge. Earn enough and you’ll effectively repay the whole lot.
Even so, it can still be worth claiming. The NI credits are valuable, especially if you’re not working or have gaps in your record.
How do I claim?
Fill in a Child Benefit claim form and send it to the Child Benefit Office. You can choose to receive the payments or opt out of receiving them while still getting the NI credits.
Not sure whether it’s worth claiming in your situation? Ask us and we’ll help you decide.
