Parents warned child benefit could stop if they don't act ahead of looming deadline
Parents warned child benefit could stop if they don't act ahead of looming deadline
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is warning parents that they need to take action to avoid missing out on Child Benefits which could be worth thousands of pounds each year
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is currently issuing reminders to parents of teenagers aged 16 to 19 ahead of a key deadline in August. If they fail to update their Child Benefit claim by this date, payments will cease automatically.
The cut-off point for updating the online account to maintain the benefit is August 31, 2025. This update is crucial for parents whose teens are pursuing further education or training. For all the latest money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here .
Parents can swiftly and conveniently extend their claim using the HMRC app or by visiting GOV.UK online. The reminder letters also feature a useful QR code that directs parents straight to the digital service on GOV.UK.
Child Benefit stands at £26.05 weekly for the eldest or an only child, totalling £1,354.60 annually, and £17.25 per week for each additional child, amounting to £897 yearly. Last year saw over 870,000 parents renew their Child Benefit claims for their teenagers, with most confirmations done quickly online or through the HMRC app.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC's Director General for Customer Services, commented: "Child Benefit is an important boost to families. As soon as you know what your teenager is planning to do, extend your claim in minutes to guarantee your payments continue in September. Simply go to GOV.UK or the HMRC app to confirm today," reports the Daily Record.
Children who are engaged in full-time studies in approved non-advanced education are eligible for continued Child Benefit payments.
Child Benefit will continue to be provided for children enrolled in certain unpaid approved training courses.
If a child decides not to pursue further education or training, parents can simply notify HMRC online or via the app, and payments will be adjusted accordingly.
If either the claimant or their partner earns between £60,000 and £80,000, the higher earner will be subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge.
For families in this income bracket, the online Child Benefit tax calculator can provide an estimate of the benefit they will receive and the potential charge.
As part of the UK Government's Plan for Change, starting this summer, families will have the option to pay the charge directly through their PAYE tax code using a new digital service, eliminating the need to file a Self Assessment tax return. This new service aims to reduce bureaucracy for eligible employed parents liable to the High Income Child Benefit Charge, although those who prefer to pay the charge through their Self Assessment can continue to do so.
Families who have previously opted out of Child Benefit payments can choose to opt back in and restart their payments quickly and easily online or via the HMRC app.
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Upon turning 16, teenagers can take control of their Child Trust Fund savings account, which could potentially be worth thousands of pounds. They can withdraw the money once they turn 18.
Child Trust Funds were established for every child born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011.
Teenagers or their parents and guardians who are aware of their Child Trust Fund provider can get in touch with them directly. If they're unsure about the whereabouts of their account, a free online tool on GOV.UK can help locate their Child Trust Fund provider.
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