Just one week to extend Child Benefit for teens

HMRC is reminding parents of teenagers staying in education or training that they have until the 31^st of August 2026 to extend their Child Benefit.

Reminder letters were sent out in May 2026, prompting parents to go online to confirm whether their teenager is staying in full-time education or approved training after their GCSEs.

More than 372,000 parents have already extended their Child Benefit payment digitally ahead of the deadline.

What you need to know about Child Benefit

• Child Benefit is worth £27.05 a week – or £1,406.60 a year – for the eldest or only child. You then receive £17.90 a week for each additional child.
• You do not need to wait for your letter to extend Child Benefit.
• Parents only need to act if their teenager is starting a new course or qualifying training in September. Those already partway through a course previously notified to HMRC do not need to contact HMRC.

• Full-time education means more than an average of 12 hours a week of supervised study or course-related work experience. This includes home schooling. If a child has an illness or disability, they may be able to do fewer hours where this is appropriate for them.
• Child Benefit cannot be claimed if a teenager’s course is part of a job contract.

Vital Source of Support

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said, “Exam results season is a big moment for teenagers deciding their next steps, and it’s the perfect time for parents to confirm those plans with us.

“Child Benefit is a vital source of support for many families, and we don’t want anyone to miss out. It only takes a few minutes using the HMRC app or GOV.UK, so make sure you’re receiving the payments you’re entitled to.”

Parents can quickly and easily extend their claim using the HMRC app or through GOV.UK.

For more information, please get in touch with Jaime on 01442 795 100 or email jaime.thorpe@dolanaccountancy.com