HMRC: Parents reminded of an important deadline as GCSE results roll out this week

As GCSE results roll out this week, parents across the UK are being reminded of an important deadline.

They have just one week left to inform HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) if their 16-year-old is planning to continue their education or training.

This is crucial for those wishing to continue receiving Child Benefit payments.

Child Benefit payments traditionally cease on 31 August after a child turns 16.

However, there’s a provision for parents to extend their claim if their child is continuing in approved education or training.

This includes a range of educational pathways such as A levels, International Baccalaureate, home education (under specific conditions), T levels, NVQs up to level 3, and traineeships in England.

Additionally, for those in Wales, the benefit continues for children studying on unpaid approved training courses like Foundation Apprenticeships, Traineeships, or the Jobs Growth Wales+ scheme.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, emphasised the importance of this benefit, stating, “Child Benefit can provide financial support to families, so make sure you don’t miss out if your teenager is still eligible.”

“You can quickly and easily extend your claim online or via the HMRC app, just search ‘Child Benefit when your child turns 16’ on GOV.UK.”

Updating the Child Benefit record has been made straightforward for parents.

They can either use the online service available on GOV.UK or opt for the HMRC app to communicate their child’s future plans.

In a recent initiative to simplify the process, HMRC sent out letters to parents which included a QR code.

On scanning, this code directs them straight to GOV.UK, allowing them to update their claim online. Any modifications made are instantly reflected in their Child Benefit claim.

For those looking to use HMRC’s online services, it’s essential to have a Government Gateway user ID and password.

Registration on GOV.UK requires their National Insurance number or postcode and two forms of ID.