HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is asking parents to check if they qualify for a “cash boost” through Child Benefit. Child Benefit can give extra support for many parents, offering additional income to cover various expenses related to childcare. It’s available to anyone responsible for a child under 16, or under 20 if in approved education.

However, some high-earning parents may have opted out of the benefit due to concerns about the High Income Child Benefit Charge. This charge specifically affects parents whose earnings surpass a set limit, which influences the amount they receive from Child Benefit.

Now, with changes following the 2023/24 tax year, the earning threshold before the charge applies has risen from £50,000 to £60,000 for 2024/25.

HMRC announced on X (formerly known as Twitter): “Opted out of Child Benefit payments because of the High Income Child Benefit Charge? The amount you or your partner can earn before paying the charge in now £60k, so you may be missing out on a cash boost.”

How much can I get from Child Benefit?

While Child Benefit is typically paid every four weeks, some parents could receive it weekly if they’re either single parents or receiving certain benefits such as Universal Credit.

There are two rates for Child Benefit depending on the child. Parents receive £26.05 weekly for the eldest or only child, and for each subsequent child, the weekly amount is £17.25.

What if I earn over the High Income threshold?

If you or your partner’s income surpasses £60,000 whilst receiving Child Benefit, you’ll be required to repay a portion of it when filing a self-assessed tax return. The amount you repay will depend on how much you earn above the £60,000 threshold.

For every additional £200 earned over £60,000, you’ll have to repay 1% of the maximum Child Benefit you claim. Consequently, once your earnings reach £80,000, you’ll be obliged to repay the entirety of the Child Benefit you’re entitled to.

If you’re currently claiming Child Benefit and are uncertain whether you’ll need to repay some or all of it, you can use the Child Benefit Tax Calculator here. Keep in mind that your adjusted net income will include taxable benefits received from your job – this could include perks such as medical insurance or a company car, so ensure these are accounted for.

You’ll also need to provide details of when your claim commenced or when it stopped if you opted out.

How to make a claim for Child Benefit

You can start a claim for Child Benefit 48 hours after your child’s birth has been registered or if a child has come to live with you. You can also backdate the claim up to three months from the date you submit it.

In a two-parent household, only one parent can submit a claim for Child Benefit. The parent who does so will receive National Insurance credits towards their State Pension, which can also help fill any gaps in their National Insurance contribution record if necessary.

Claims can be made online, through the post, or on the phone. Before making a claim you will need the following:

• your bank or building society details
• your partner’s National Insurance number (if you have a partner)
• your National Insurance number – if you have one
• your child’s birth or adoption certificate, if you have it

To make a claim online, all you need to do is head to GOV.UK here and follow the instructions. Otherwise, you can call HMRC directly by dialling 0300 200 3100.

If you want to claim through the post, you will need to print and fill in the Child Benefit form CH2, which can be found here, and send it to the address on the form.