How to Claim Family Allowance (Child Benefit) in the UK?

March 18, 2025

Family Allowance, officially known as Child Benefit, is a payment from the UK government to help parents or guardians with the cost of raising children. It’s available to most families, but certain income thresholds and tax implications apply.

Who Can Claim Child Benefit?

You can claim Child Benefit if you are responsible for a child who is under 16 years old (or under 20 if they are in approved education or training).

How Much Is Child Benefit?

As of April 2024, the rates are:

The weekly amount is £25.60 for the eldest or only child.
£16.95 per week for additional children.

Payments are made every four weeks, but single parents or those receiving certain benefits can opt for weekly payments.

How to Apply for Child Benefit

Complete the CH2 form – Download it from the HMRC website or request a paper form.
Provide the child’s birth or adoption certificate – This confirms your eligibility.
Send the form to HMRC – Post it to the address on the form. If you are registering a birth in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, you might be able to apply at the same time.
Wait for confirmation – It usually takes up to 12 weeks to process a claim.

High-Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC)

If you or your partner earn over £60,000 per year, you may have to pay back some or all of the (HICBC) through a tax charge. For incomes above £80,000, the charge cancels out the benefit entirely. You can still claim to protect your National Insurance record but opt out of receiving payments.

Why Should You Claim Even If You Earn Over £80,000?

Claiming but opting out of payments ensures you:

Get National Insurance credits towards your State Pension.
Avoid delays if your circumstances change and you later need the benefit.

Changes in Circumstances

Inform HMRC if:

Your child turns 16 and leaves education.
Your income changes significantly.
You move abroad.

Final Thoughts

Child Benefit is a valuable support for families, even if you don’t receive the payments due to income thresholds. Ensure you claim on time and keep HMRC updated about any changes. For more details, visit the Gov.uk website or seek professional tax advice if your income exceeds the threshold.