By Chandraketu Tripathi · Updated April 2026 · Fact-checked Benefits · April 2026Child Benefit increased from 7 April 2026 as part of the annual benefit uprating. The new rates represent a 3.8% increase in line with September 2025 CPI inflation. Here is everything parents need to know about Child Benefit in 2026 — including the rates, the high income charge and how to claim.
Who Can Claim Child Benefit?Child Benefit is available to anyone responsible for a child under 16 (or under 20 if they are in approved education or training). There is no means test — you can claim regardless of your income. However, if you or your partner earns over £60,000 per year, you must pay some or all of it back through the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC). High Income Child Benefit Charge — £60,000 ThresholdIf the highest earner in your household earns between £60,000 and £80,000 per year, you repay 1% of Child Benefit for every £200 earned above £60,000. At £80,000 or above, you repay 100% — meaning you effectively receive nothing. This charge was reformed in April 2024, raising the threshold from £50,000 to £60,000. The change is now in its third year.
💡 Even if you earn over £80,000 and repay all the Child Benefit through the tax charge, it is still worth claiming. Each week you claim builds a National Insurance credit — protecting your State Pension entitlement if you are not working. Claim and opt to pay back via Self Assessment rather than not claiming at all. Child Benefit and National Insurance CreditsFor parents not working or earning below the NI threshold, claiming Child Benefit for a child under 12 automatically generates National Insurance credits — protecting your State Pension entitlement. This is one of the most valuable but overlooked aspects of Child Benefit. Parents who did not claim — or who opted out — may have gaps in their NI record that could reduce their State Pension. ⭐ OUR VERDICT Child Benefit is worth claiming for almost every family with children — even those on higher incomes. The NI credit benefit alone can be worth thousands in State Pension income over a retirement. If you opted out due to the high income charge, reconsider — especially if your income has changed or if you are the lower earner who would benefit from NI credits. Claim via HMRC's Child Benefit portal at gov.uk/child-benefit. Frequently Asked QuestionsHow much is Child Benefit in 2026? From 7 April 2026, Child Benefit is £27.05 per week for the first or only child, and £17.90 per week for each additional child. This represents a 3.8% increase from the previous year. What is the Child Benefit high income charge? The High Income Child Benefit Charge applies if the highest earner in your household earns more than £60,000 per year. You repay 1% of Child Benefit for every £200 earned above £60,000, reaching 100% repayment at £80,000. This is paid via Self Assessment. Can I claim Child Benefit if I earn over £80,000? Yes — you can still claim and then repay through Self Assessment. It is worth doing to protect your National Insurance record, which affects your State Pension entitlement. Alternatively, you can opt out of receiving payments while keeping your NI credits. How do I claim Child Benefit? Claim Child Benefit online at gov.uk/child-benefit. You need your child's birth certificate and your bank details. Most claims are processed within 3 weeks. You should claim as soon as possible after your child is born — Child Benefit can only be backdated for up to 3 months. |
Child Benefit 2026: New Rates, High Income Charge & How to Claim
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