Step-by-Step Guide: Claiming Child Benefit in the UK

When you’re balancing parenting and money, it can be very difficult to understand government benefit and assistance systems. This is where Child Benefit comes into picture. It is a crucial source of financial assistance for families in the UK. It is a payment intended to lessen the burden of having children. 

Whether you’re a first-time parent or simply updating your circumstances, knowing how to correctly apply ensures you won’t miss out on valuable support.

This tutorial walks you through each stage of the benefit claim process. From eligibility checks to receiving your first payment, we provide detailed instructions and examples that simplify each step. 

What Is Child Benefit?

Parents of children under 16 (or under 20 if they continue their education or training) receive this government payment.  The benefit is paid monthly and is not dependent on income.

Key Details:

• Payment Frequency: Monthly (or weekly upon request)
• Eligibility: Must be responsible for a child under the qualifying age
• Amount (as of current rates):
  • £26.05 per week for the eldest or only child
  • £17.25 per week for additional children

Who Can Receive This Benefit? Eligibility Check:

In general, you must fulfill the following requirements in order to be eligible for the benefit:

• Residency: You have to be a resident of the United Kingdom.
• Responsibility for the Child: You must be responsible for a child who is:
  • Under 16 years old, or
  • Under 20 years old and in approved education or training.
• Relationship to the Child: You usually need to be the parent or someone who has taken on parental responsibility for the child.
• Not Earning Above the High Income Child Benefit Charge Threshold: If you or your partner earn more than a certain amount — currently £60,000 a year (though this could change) — you might have to pay back some or all of the benefit through your tax return.

Also read: Top 5 Benefits for Low-Income Households in the UK

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you apply, make sure you tick all the right boxes.

You can apply if:

• You are responsible for a child under 16 (or 20 in full-time approved education/training)
  
• You are a UK resident and have the right to reside legally
  
• You’re not already claiming for the same child
  

Important Notes:

• Only one person can claim for a child
  
• You do not need to be the biological parent
  
• Foster parents and guardians can also apply
  

Example:

Emma cares for her niece full-time, and even though she’s not the child’s mother, she’s still eligible to claim this benefit.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

To keep things moving smoothly, make sure you’ve got all the necessary paperwork ready before you start your application.

You’ll need:

• Your National Insurance number
  
• Your child’s birth or adoption certificate
  
• Your bank or building society account details
  
• If applicable, your partner’s National Insurance number
  

Step 3: Apply for the Benefit

How to Apply Online

Applying online is the faster and more convenient method.

Steps:

1. Create or sign in to your Government Gateway account.
   
2. Go to the Child Benefit application section.
   
3. Fill out the online CH2 form.
   
4. Provide your:
   
   • National Insurance number
     
   • Child’s birth/adoption certificate (may need to post this separately)
     
   • Bank account details
     
   • Partner’s National Insurance number (if applicable)
     
5. Submit the form and follow instructions for any additional document uploads or postal submissions.
   

Tip: You can still apply online if your child was born outside the UK, but extra documents may be needed.

How to Apply By Post

For those who prefer a traditional method:

Steps:

1. Download the CH2 form here: Child Benefit Claim Form (CH2)
   
2. Print and complete the form manually.
   
3. Attach your child’s original birth or adoption certificate. Post it to the Child Benefit Office with your child’s original birth certificate

Important: Use tracked or recorded delivery for safety when sending original documents.

Processing Time:

• Usually within 6 to 12 weeks of application
  
• May take longer if your child was born outside the UK
  

Step 4: Understand the High-Income Child Benefit Tax Charge

If either you or your partner earns over £50,000 annually, you may be required to pay back some or all of the the benefit through a tax charge.

What You Need to Do:

• Register for Self Assessment
  
• Complete a tax return each year
  
• Choose to opt-out of payments if the charge cancels out the benefit
  

Example:

David earns £55,000 a year. He chooses to continue receiving the benefit but files a Self Assessment each year to repay the appropriate amount via tax.

Step 5: Manage Your Payments

Once approved, you’ll receive payments directly into your nominated bank account.

Tips to Manage Payments Effectively:

• Set reminders for when your benefit is due
  
• Regularly check your bank statement to confirm receipt
  
• Notify the Child Benefit Office of any changes in circumstance
  

Step 6: Report Changes Promptly

Keep all your information up to date so you don’t get paid too much or too little.

Notify HMRC if:

• Your child leaves full-time education or training
  
• You or your child move abroad
  
• You start or stop living with a partner
  
• You become unemployed or change jobs
  

Step 7: Dealing with Disputes or Delays

Sometimes claims get delayed or disputed. Here’s what you can do:

If Your Claim Is Delayed:

• Wait the standard processing time (6–12 weeks)
  
• Call the Child Benefit helpline if it exceeds the timeframe
  

If You’re Denied:

• Request a mandatory reconsideration
  
• Provide any additional documentation
  
• Appeal to the tribunal if necessary
  

Claiming for More Than One Child

If you have more than one child, you can claim for all of them in one go.

How It Works:

• First child: Full rate
  
• Subsequent children: Lower rate
  
• Use the Additional Child form (CH2A) if claiming for more children later

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure a smooth claiming experience:

• Forgetting to send the original birth certificate
  
• Using outdated forms
  
• Incorrect bank details
  
• Delaying the claim (you can backdate for up to 3 months only)

Reasons for Filing a Child Benefit Claim Even If You Don’t Need the Money

Some parents opt out of payments due to the tax charge but still fill out the application. Why?

Reasons to Apply Anyway:

• Earn National Insurance credits toward your State Pension
  
• Avoid gaps in your contribution record
  
• Keep track of your child’s status with HMRC

Best Practices for Claiming UK Benefits

To make the most of the broader UK Benefits system, follow these practices:

• Always keep copies of submitted forms
  
• Use tracked post for original documents
  
• Create a secure digital folder for scanned copies
  
• Register for Government Gateway to manage benefits online
  
• Set calendar reminders for renewal or updates

Before You Apply: A Few Things to Keep in Mind

• Earning Over £60,000?
  If you or your partner brings in more than £60,000 a year, there’s something called the High Income Child Benefit Charge you need to know about. Basically, it means you might have to pay back some — or even all — of the benefit through your tax return. It can catch people off guard, so it’s good to be aware of it before you apply.
• Keep HMRC in the Loop
  Life happens — and when things change, HMRC needs to be in the loop. Maybe you’ve moved, your relationship status has changed, your child’s finished school or training, or someone else is now claiming for them. Whatever it is, keeping your details up to date helps make sure your payments stay on track.
• Don’t Wait Too Long to Claim
  If your child has just been born or recently started living with you, try to apply as soon as you can. Payments can usually only be backdated by up to three months — so the sooner you apply, the better.
• Even If You’re Not Taking the Money, Still Make the Claim
  Some higher earners opt out of receiving Child Benefit payments to avoid the charge. But it’s still a good idea to fill out the form — that way, you’ll get National Insurance credits, which help build up your state pension. It’s a small step now that can make a big difference later.
• You Might Be Eligible for More Help
  Sometimes, claiming Child Benefit can unlock other types of support too — like tax credits or Universal Credit. It’s definitely worth taking a moment to see what else you might be eligible for.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Delays in Processing: If you haven’t heard back about your claim within the expected timeframe, contact HMRC. You can find their contact details on the GOV.UK website.
• Incorrect Payment Amounts: If you believe the amount of benefit you are receiving is incorrect, contact HMRC to query this.

Also read: A Simple Guide to Applying for Universal Credit in the UK

Final Checklist Before You Apply

• Confirm your eligibility
  
• Gather all required documentation
  
• Choose your preferred method of application (online/post)
  
• Understand tax implications
  
• Have your bank details ready
  
• Know what changes to report in the future
  

Conclusion

Claiming Child Benefit doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of prep and knowing what to look out for, you can get the support you’re entitled to and plan your family’s finances with more confidence.

Whether you’re a new parent or revisiting your entitlement, taking the time to follow these steps is worth every effort.

Ready to take control of your finances and access all the UK Benefits your family is entitled to? Go ahead and apply today— your child deserves that support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

I’m not working — can I still claim?

Yes. Child Benefit is not income-based, so unemployed parents can still claim.

Can I claim if my child was born abroad?

Yes, but the process may take longer. Ensure you have translated documents if necessary.

What happens if my partner and I both apply?

Only one claim per child is allowed. HMRC will contact you to determine who should receive the benefit.