HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is set to increase Child Benefit payments for parents with children born after 2010. For the tax year ending 5 April 2027, the Child Benefit rate will rise to £27.05 per week for the first or only child, and £17.90 per week for each additional child.
This reflects a 3.84% increase from the previous rate of £26.05 per week for the first child, and a 3.77% rise from £17.25 per week for younger siblings in the prior tax year ending 5 April 2026.
HMRC encourages eligible parents and carers to claim Child Benefit online or via the HMRC app. Parents of children under 16—or under 20 if in approved full-time education or training—can benefit from this scheme. Over one million families currently claim these payments.
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In addition to the financial support, claimants also receive National Insurance (NI) credits, which contribute toward their State Pension. Generally, individuals need at least 35 years of NI credits to qualify for the full State Pension. This advantage is particularly beneficial for parents who do not work or earn less than £125 per week, as NI credits can help fill gaps in their work record.
Eligibility to claim Child Benefit requires being responsible for the child. The child’s age must be under 16, or under 20 if they remain in approved full-time education or training. Claimants' income, savings, or investments do not affect eligibility.
While families living abroad usually cannot claim Child Benefit, certain exceptions apply. Receiving Child Benefit does not reduce other benefits unless the Benefit Cap is in place. The Benefit Cap mostly affects those receiving Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit.
Parents are advised to ensure their claims are up to date to take full advantage of the increased rates and National Insurance credit benefits.