More than 6.9 million families who claim child benefit will start to see an increase in their payments.
HMRC is urging those who haven’t already to either use the app or go online to claim theirs as soon as possible.
Child benefit rates
Child Benefit is usually paid every 4 weeks and will automatically be paid into a bank account.
As of the 6th of April 2026, claimants will receive £27.05 per week – or £1,406.60 a year – for the eldest or only child, and £17.90 per week – or £930.80 a year – for each additional child, with no limit on how many children parents can claim for.
This is an annual increase of £52 and £33.80 respectively.
Need help deciding between Limited or Umbrella? We are happy to help- give Sophie a call on 01442 795 100 or email sophie.lewis@dolanaccountancy.com
Many missing out on child benefit in baby’s first year
According to latest figures, only 72% of families claimed child benefit in their baby’s first year.
This type of claim can only be backdated by up to 3 months from the date HMRC receives your claim, which means thousands of families are missing out.
To make a child benefit claim, parents will need to create an online HMRC account and will need the following:
- child’s birth or adoption certificate
- bank details
- National Insurance number for themselves and their partner (if they have one)
- child’s original birth or adoption certificate and passport or travel document, for children born outside the UK.
To find out more about contracting, please contact Jaime on 01442 795 100 or email jaime.thorpe@dolanaccountancy.com.
Trusted by over 1,000 contractors |