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Eligibility · Child Benefit

Am I eligible for Child Benefit?

In short. Child Benefit can be claimed for any child under 16 (or under 20 in approved education/training) by the person responsible for them. Higher-rate earners (£60,000+) repay some via the High Income Child Benefit Charge; at £80,000+ income, the full amount is repaid. Claiming (even at zero payment) still records NI credits towards the State Pension for years when the child is under 12.

Child Benefit is paid to the responsible adult, regardless of income. Since 6 April 2024 the income threshold for the High Income Child Benefit Charge has been £60,000 (was £50,000), with full repayment by £80,000 (was £60,000).

Last reviewed:

·Amount: £26.05/week eldest/only child, £17.25/week per additional child (2025/26)

You likely qualify if…

  • Your child is under 16, or under 20 in approved education / training
  • You're responsible for the child (don't have to be the parent)
  • You and the child live in the UK (with some exceptions)
  • Only one person can claim per child — usually the main carer

You likely don't if…

  • The child is in paid work for more than 24 hours/week or claims certain benefits in their own right
  • Your immigration status restricts access to public funds

How to check and claim

  1. 01Child Benefit claims can only be backdated 3 months, so the practical claim window is within 3 months of the birth or other qualifying event
  2. 02Applications are made online at gov.uk/child-benefit or via paper form CH2
  3. 03The application form includes a 'don't pay me' option — claiming with this ticked still records NI credits towards the State Pension for years when the child is under 12

FAQ

What is the High Income Child Benefit Charge?
If you or your partner have an 'adjusted net income' over £60,000, you pay back 1% of Child Benefit for every £200 above £60,000. At £80,000+ income, you pay it all back. You still claim (for NI credits) but pay the charge through Self Assessment.
Why claim if I'll just pay it back?
Tick the 'no payment' option. You'll still get NI credits towards your State Pension for any year your child is under 12. Without claiming, you can miss valuable qualifying years.
Can grandparents claim?
No, but a non-working grandparent looking after a child under 12 can apply for 'Specified Adult Childcare credits' to transfer the NI credit from the claiming parent.
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