Millions to see Child Benefit increase from April
Millions of families across the UK will see an increase in Child Benefit payments from next week, HM Revenue and Customs has confirmed.
From 6 April, parents will receive £27.05 per week for their eldest or only child and £17.90 for each additional child. This equates to £1,406.60 a year for the first child and £930.80 for others.
The increase represents an annual rise of £52 for the first child and £33.80 for each additional child.
HMRC said more than 6.9 million families currently claim Child Benefit, but warned that thousands of new parents are missing out by delaying applications.
Figures show only 72% of families claim the benefit within their child’s first year. Claims can only be backdated by up to three months, meaning late applications can result in lost payments.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said: “Looking after a child can be expensive and especially a newborn baby. It takes a few minutes to claim Child Benefit via the app and doing so as soon as you can after your baby is born will ensure you don’t miss out on vital financial support.”
HMRC said the quickest way to apply or manage payments is through its app or online service, with around 85% of claims now made digitally.
Child Benefit is usually paid every four weeks directly into a bank account. Parents can also use the app to update details, add children to a claim or track payments.
Anna Sharkey, from the Money and Pensions Service, said: “Use MoneyHelper’s free Benefits Calculator if you think you, or someone you know, might be eligible for Child Benefit. The calculator will show you all the benefits you’re eligible for.
“Other MoneyHelper tools for new parents include the Baby Cost Calculator to help you budget when having a baby, and the Baby Money Timeline which gives you key dates to help you plan your finances.
“Visit MoneyHelper.org.uk for free and impartial money guidance for everyday money management.”
Families where one parent earns more than £60,000 a year may be required to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge, although they can choose to do this through their PAYE tax code instead of a Self Assessment return.
Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.
Spotted something? Got a story? Email news (@) deeside.com
NEW: Add Deeside.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Latest News
