Child Benefit Rates UK
Child Benefit is a tax-free payment available to most parents and guardians in the UK. It is paid every four weeks and helps with the cost of raising children.
This fully updated 2026 guide explains the current rates, payment dates, income rules, and how the High Income Child Benefit Charge affects what you receive.
1. Child Benefit Rates UK 2026 (Weekly Amounts)
The 2026 Child Benefit rates are:
- £25.60 per week for the first child
- £16.95 per week for each additional child
These rates apply whether your child is your biological child, adopted child, stepchild, or if you are the legal guardian.
Monthly (4-weekly) payment amounts:
- First child: £102.40 every 4 weeks
- Each additional child: £67.80 every 4 weeks
Example:
If you have two children, you receive £170.20 every 4 weeks.
2. Who Is Eligible for Child Benefit in 2026?
You can claim Child Benefit if:
- You are responsible for a child under 16
- Or a young person under 20 in approved education or training
- You live in the UK (with some exceptions)
Only one person per household can receive Child Benefit for a child.
3. High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC) – 2026 Rules
If you or your partner earns:
- Over £50,000 per year – you may need to repay some Child Benefit
- Over £60,000 per year – you may need to repay all of it
This is done through the tax return system.
Example:
If you earn £55,000 → You repay around 50% of the Child Benefit you received.
If you earn £65,000 → You repay 100% of it.
Important:
It is still worth registering for Child Benefit even if you repay it because it gives:
- National Insurance credits (towards State Pension)
- Automatic registration for your child’s National Insurance number
4. How Child Benefit Is Paid
Payments are usually made:
- Every four weeks
- Every Monday or Tuesday
Single parents and low-income families may be eligible for weekly payments.
Payments go directly into your bank account.
5. How to Claim Child Benefit in 2026
You can claim:
- Online using your Government Gateway account
- By filling out form CH2 (newborns)
You should claim as soon as your child is born, adopted, or moves in with you.
6. Child Benefit for Babies (2026)
You can apply once:
- Your baby has been registered
- You have a birth certificate
Payments are backdated up to 3 months, so apply early.
7. Child Benefit for Children in Education (2026)
Child Benefit can continue until your child is 20 if they stay in full-time education such as:
- A-levels
- T-levels
- BTEC
- Apprenticeships (not always eligible)
- Home education (if approved)
Child Benefit stops if they begin:
- Full-time employment
- University
- Training not approved by HMRC
8. What Happens If Your Relationship or Income Changes?
You must update HMRC if:
- Your income crosses the £50,000 threshold
- Your child leaves education
- Your child moves out
- You separate or move in with a new partner
- You no longer qualify as the responsible adult
Failure to update HMRC may lead to overpayment bills or penalties.
9. Total Annual Child Benefit (2026)
| Number of Children | Annual Amount |
|---|---|
| 1 child | £1,331.20 |
| 2 children | £2,012.80 |
| 3 children | £2,694.40 |
(Amounts before any income-based repayments.)
10. Related UK Cost Guides
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