HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has issued an important reminder to parents receiving Child Benefit, particularly those with children approaching the end of compulsory education.
The warning relates to teenagers over the age of 16 who plan to continue in approved education or training. According to HMRC, parents may need to confirm their child’s education status to avoid Child Benefit payments stopping automatically later this year.
Child Benefit provides regular financial support to millions of families across the UK. However, eligibility rules can change once a child reaches age 16, making it important for parents to update their information with HMRC when required.
Reminder
HMRC recently shared guidance urging parents not to ignore letters or online notifications regarding Child Benefit eligibility.
In a message posted on X, formerly Twitter, HMRC said:
“Parents – don’t miss out this summer. If your child is over 16 and staying in education or approved training, your Child Benefit can continue, but you need to act. Check and extend your claim using the HMRC app or online now.”
Parents may receive a letter during their child’s final school year asking them to confirm future education or training plans. If HMRC does not receive updated information, Child Benefit payments could stop automatically.
Rules
Child Benefit usually ends on August 31 on or after a child’s 16th birthday if:
- They leave education or training
- Parents do not inform HMRC that the child is continuing eligible education or training
- The child enters a type of education that does not qualify for Child Benefit
Families can continue receiving Child Benefit until a child turns 20 if the teenager remains in approved education or training.
The child must:
- Be accepted onto the course before turning 19
- Not receive Universal Credit
- Meet approved education or training requirements
Education
HMRC states that Child Benefit can continue for children in full-time non-advanced education.
According to Gov.uk, full-time education means more than 12 hours per week of supervised study or course-related work experience.
If a child has an illness or disability, fewer hours may still qualify where appropriate.
Eligible education includes:
| Approved Education Types |
|---|
| A levels |
| T levels |
| GCSEs |
| Scottish Highers |
| NVQs up to level 3 |
| Home education |
| Study programmes in England |
| Pre-apprenticeships |
These courses are generally classified as non-advanced education.
Restrictions
Certain courses and training programmes do not qualify for Child Benefit.
Parents cannot receive Child Benefit if a child is enrolled in:
| Non-Eligible Courses |
|---|
| University degree |
| Higher National Certificate (HNC) |
| Higher National Diploma (HND) |
| Pre-degree course |
| Higher education certificate |
Similarly, some forms of training are excluded, including:
- Apprenticeships
- Courses linked to employment contracts
HMRC advises parents to check eligibility carefully before assuming payments will continue.
Payments
Child Benefit is generally paid every four weeks, usually on a Monday or Tuesday.
Some families may qualify for weekly payments instead, including:
- Single parents
- Individuals receiving certain benefits such as Income Support
Current Child Benefit weekly rates are:
| Child Benefit Rate | Weekly Amount |
|---|---|
| Eldest or only child | £27.05 |
| Additional children | £17.90 |
Only one person can claim Child Benefit for a child. Claims can usually be made 48 hours after registering a birth or when a child begins living with the claimant.
Payments can also be backdated for up to three months from the date of application.
Credits
In addition to direct payments, Child Benefit claims can help protect future State Pension entitlement.
Gov.uk explains that the person claiming Child Benefit receives National Insurance credits. These credits can help fill gaps in a National Insurance record for individuals who are not working or earning enough to pay contributions.
For couples living together, only one person can receive the higher Child Benefit rate for the eldest child in the household. If both parents claim the higher rate incorrectly, HMRC may require repayment of some benefits.
Outlook
HMRC is encouraging parents of teenagers over 16 to review their Child Benefit status before payments stop automatically later this year. Families whose children are continuing approved education or training may still qualify for support until age 20, but updated information must be provided to HMRC.
Parents can confirm or extend claims using the HMRC app or through the official Gov.uk website. Checking eligibility early may help avoid payment interruptions during the transition from school to further education or training.
FAQs
When can Child Benefit stop?
It may stop after August 31 following age 16.
Can Child Benefit continue after age 16?
Yes, for approved education or training.
What is the weekly rate for one child?
The weekly rate is £27.05.
Do apprenticeships qualify for Child Benefit?
No, apprenticeships are not eligible.
