In a significant move to support families across the United Kingdom, the government has announced an increase in Child Benefit payments starting April 7, 2025. Delivered through HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), this update will boost the weekly payments for each child, helping parents cope with the rising cost of living.
Alongside this financial increase, the government is streamlining the process of claiming and managing Child Benefit using the HMRC mobile app and online platforms. With millions of families already utilizing these services, the enhancements in both payment and accessibility are welcome developments for UK households.
Quick Summary Of UK Govt Confirmed Child Benefits
| Key Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Start Date | April 7, 2025 |
| First Child Weekly Payment | £26.05 per week (£1,354.60 annually) |
| Additional Child Weekly Payment | £17.25 per week (£897 annually) |
| Payment Frequency | Every four weeks |
| Eligibility | UK residents with legal parental responsibility for a child under 16 (or 20 in education) |
| Claim Method | Online via HMRC app or GOV.UK Child Benefit |
| High Income Threshold | Income over £60,000 subject to HICBC |
| Backdating Claims | Up to 3 months |
| National Insurance Credits | Available even if payments are opted out |
Understanding Child Benefit: What Is It?
Child Benefit is a government-funded payment designed to help families with the cost of raising children. It is available to individuals who are responsible for a child under the age of 16, or under 20 if the child stays in approved education or training.
The benefit is not means-tested for initial eligibility, meaning anyone with legal parental responsibility can apply, regardless of income. However, higher-income earners may have to repay some or all of the benefit through the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC).
New Child Benefit Rates Starting April 2025
From 7 April 2025, the Child Benefit payments will increase to reflect inflation and to support parents in an evolving economic climate.
Updated Weekly Rates:
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£26.05 per week for the eldest or only child (up from £24.00)
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£17.25 per week for each additional child (up from £15.90)
This brings the annual support for one child to £1,354.60, and £897 for each sibling.
How Payments Work:
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Paid every 4 weeks directly into the claimant’s bank account
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There is no limit to the number of children you can claim for
Digital Claiming Made Simple: HMRC App and Online Portal
Since launching its digital services in May 2023, HMRC has processed over 1.2 million claims online. An impressive 87% of all new Child Benefit claims are now submitted digitally. The process is faster, more secure, and allows real-time updates on claim status.
Services Available via HMRC App:
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Submit a new claim
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Add more children to existing claims
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Update banking or personal details
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Notify HMRC if your child remains in full-time education or training
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Download proof of entitlement for other benefit applications or childcare providers
With over 6 million uses in the past year, the app is rapidly becoming the go-to tool for benefit management in the UK.
How to Apply for Child Benefit in 2025
To make a claim, follow these steps:
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
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Child’s birth or adoption certificate
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Your (and partner’s) National Insurance numbers
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Your bank account details
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For children born outside the UK: original birth/adoption certificate and a passport or travel document
Step 2: Choose Application Method
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Online via the Child Benefit service on GOV.UK
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HMRC mobile app (available on Apple and Android)
Step 3: Submit and Monitor Claim
Once submitted, you can check the status of your claim and receive updates directly on your app or via email.
Backdating Claims
Claims can be backdated by up to 3 months, so it’s recommended to apply as soon as your child is born or adopted.
New Option for High Income Families in Summer 2025
Families where one parent earns more than £60,000 are required to repay some or all of their Child Benefit through the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC). Currently, this is done through the annual Self Assessment process.
What’s Changing?
From summer 2025, a new PAYE (Pay As You Earn) option will be available. Eligible employed parents can have the HICBC automatically deducted from their salary through their tax code, removing the need to file a separate Self Assessment tax return.
This change is part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change initiative aimed at reducing administrative burdens for working families.
Why You Should Claim Even If You Don’t Want the Payments
Some higher-income families previously opted out of receiving Child Benefit to avoid the HICBC. However, even if you don’t receive the money, making a claim is still highly beneficial.
Advantages of Claiming Without Payments:
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You still receive National Insurance credits, which count toward your State Pension eligibility
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Your child will automatically receive a National Insurance number at age 16
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You can opt back in anytime using the HMRC app or website
Helping Families Navigate Parenthood
With the 2025 increase in payments and improved digital access, Child Benefit continues to play a vital role in supporting families. The UK Government’s efforts to streamline systems and ensure ease of access reflect a broader commitment to helping parents raise children with fewer financial and bureaucratic hurdles.
Official Resources
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Download HMRC App – Apple Store
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When will the new Child Benefit rates take effect?
The new rates start from 7 April 2025. Payments will reflect the updated weekly amount from this date onward.
2. How much will I receive for my children?
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£26.05 per week for your eldest or only child
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£17.25 per week for each additional child
3. How often are payments made?
Payments are deposited every 4 weeks into the claimant’s nominated bank account.
4. Can I claim online?
Yes. You can use either the HMRC mobile app or the GOV.UK online portal to claim, track, or manage your benefits.
5. What documents do I need to apply?
You will need:
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Child’s birth or adoption certificate
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National Insurance numbers
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Bank account information
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For children born abroad, a passport or travel document
6. What if I earn over £60,000?
You may be subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge. You can estimate your repayment on the GOV.UK website. Starting summer 2025, employed parents can pay this charge directly through PAYE.
7. Can I receive National Insurance credits without payments?
Yes. Even if you opt out of receiving payments, you will still receive NI credits as long as you register a valid claim.
Conclusion
The UK Government’s 2025 update to the Child Benefit scheme not only increases the financial support available to families but also makes it easier to claim and manage these benefits through digital tools. Whether you’re a first-time parent or a seasoned claimant, the enhanced rates and simplified access aim to make parenting a little less stressful.
Take advantage of this support by submitting your claim early, managing it through the HMRC app, and staying informed about your eligibility. Every pound makes a difference—and with these improvements, families can focus more on raising their children and less on navigating bureaucracy.
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