Child Benefit in the UK: Complete Guide for New Residents

What Is Child Benefit?

Child Benefit is a monthly payment from the government to help with the cost of raising children. It is available to most families with children under 16 (or under 20 in approved education/training).

How Much Do You Get?

Payments are made every 4 weeks (or weekly for single parents).

Who Can Claim?

• Parents or guardians responsible for a child under 16
• One person claims per child (usually the main caregiver)
• You do not need to be working to claim
• You do not need to be a British citizen
• EU settled status holders can claim

High Income Child Benefit Charge

If you or your partner earns over £60,000 per year, you may need to pay back some or all of the benefit through the tax system. This is called the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC).

• One parent earns over £60,000: full charge applies
• Between £50,000 and £60,000: partial charge applies

How to Apply

1. Go to gov.uk/child-benefit
2. Fill in the CH2 claim form
3. Send it to HMRC (by post or online)
4. You need your National Insurance number, child's birth certificate, and bank details

Effect on Other Benefits

• Claiming Child Benefit helps you build up National Insurance credits for your state pension
• It can affect other benefits if you are on a low income
• Always check the impact on your specific situation

Key Points for New Residents

• You can claim as soon as you are legally resident in the UK
• You need a UK bank account for payments
• You need a National Insurance number (or be applying for one)
• Payments continue until the child is 16 (or 20 if in approved education)