Increase in child benefit payments announced

Child Benefit rates increased from 6 April 2026, giving families a little more financial breathing room. Here's what you need to know about the current rates, who qualifies, and how to make or update your claim.

How much is Child Benefit in 2026/27?

From 6 April 2026, the weekly rate for an eldest or only child is £27.05, and £17.90 for each additional child. The annual totals are:

• One child: £1,406.60 per year
• Two children: £2,337.40 per year
• Three children: £3,268.20 per year

Payments are normally made every four weeks on a Monday or Tuesday. Single parents can request weekly payments instead.

Who can claim?

Child Benefit is paid to anyone responsible for a child under 16, or under 20 if they remain in approved full-time education or training. You do not need to be the biological parent — guardians, foster carers, and adoptive parents can all claim.

Only one person can claim per child.

Does your income affect your entitlement?

Child Benefit is not means tested — anyone responsible for a qualifying child can claim, regardless of income. However, if the highest earner in your household has an adjusted net income above £60,000, the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC) applies, clawing back 1% of the benefit for every £200 of income between £60,000 and £80,000. Above £80,000, the charge equals the full amount received. Importantly, it is still worth claiming even if you are subject to the charge. Claiming Child Benefit provides National Insurance credits to any parent or carer who is not working, and these credits count towards the 35 qualifying years needed for a full State Pension. You can claim but opt out of receiving the payments if you want to avoid the charge while keeping the NI credits.

How to claim

You can claim online through your HMRC account or on the HMRC app. A straightforward online claim can be processed quickly, with your first payment arriving in as little as three working days. Child Benefit can be backdated by up to three months, so it is worth claiming promptly after your child is born.

Through the HMRC app you can also view recent payment history, download proof of your claim, and update your bank details without needing to call.

If you live in Scotland

The Scottish Child Payment is a separate benefit administered by Social Security Scotland, paying £28.20 per week per eligible child under 16 from April 2026. It is paid on top of Child Benefit, not instead of it, and is available to families in receipt of Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or certain other qualifying benefits. Apply at mygov.scot.

Last updated: June 2026. Rates shown are for the 2026/27 tax year (6 April 2026 to 5 April 2027). For personal financial advice, speak to an independent financial adviser or visit gov.uk.