Babies cost money – and as any cash-strapped parent knows, they don’t get any cheaper as they grow up. If you’re bringing up a family in the UK, you can claim around £1,000 a year for your first child, and more than £600 for each of your other children. 

What is Child Benefit?

Child Benefit is a tax-free payment that you can claim for your child. It is usually paid every four weeks but in some cases can be paid weekly, and there are separate rates for each child. The payment can be claimed by anyone who qualifies, whatever their income or savings. 

Who can get Child Benefit?

You may be able to claim Child Benefit if any of the following apply:

• Your child is under 16
• Your child is over 16 and in relevant education or training
• Your child is 16 or 17, has left relevant education or training and is registered for work, education or training with an approved body

You can claim Child Benefit even if your child doesn’t live with you. However, if they live with someone else, you can only claim Child Benefit if:

• You pay towards the upkeep of your child
• What you pay is at least the same as the amount of Child Benefit you get for your child

• The person bringing up your child is not claiming Child Benefit for them

You can also claim Child Benefit for a child even if you’re not their parent, but you have to be responsible for them to qualify. 

How much Child Benefit will you get?

There are two separate amounts, with a higher amount for your eldest (or only) child. You get £20.30 a week for your oldest child and £13.40 a week for each of your other children. 

How is Child Benefit paid?

Child Benefit can be paid into any bank, building society, or National Savings & Investments (NS&I) account that accepts Direct Payment. It’s usually paid every four weeks, but it can be paid weekly if you’re getting Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income related Employment and Support Allowance or if you’re a single parent. 

Content supplied by Direct.gov.uk.  Last reviewed 17/08/10.

For more about Child Benefit and to find out how to claim, visit www.direct.gov.uk.