Parents of teens reminded to extend Child Benefit claims online before deadline

Parents and guardians of teenagers aged 16 to 19 are being reminded by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to extend their Child Benefit claims by 31 August 2025 to avoid payments being stopped.

As students complete their GCSEs and make plans for the next stage of their education or training, HMRC is issuing 1.5 million letters between May and July. These letters prompt families to confirm online whether their child is continuing in full-time education or approved training, which is a requirement for ongoing Child Benefit eligibility.

“Child Benefit is an important boost to families. As soon as you know what your teenager is planning to do, extend your claim in minutes to guarantee your payments continue in September. Simply go to GOV.UK or the HMRC app to confirm today,” said Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services.

Simple Online Process via HMRC App or GOV.UK

Parents can extend their claims quickly and securely through the HMRC app or online at GOV.UK. The letters include a QR code that links directly to the digital service, enabling a straightforward user experience.

Last year, more than 870,000 parents successfully extended their Child Benefit for teens, with most completing the process online in just a few minutes.

If not extended, Child Benefit automatically stops on 31 August following a child’s 16th birthday, potentially leaving families without an important source of income.

Child Benefit Payment Rates and Eligibility

Currently, Child Benefit is worth:

• £26.05 per week (£1,354.60 annually) for the eldest or only child

• £17.25 per week (£897 annually) for each additional child

Parents may continue receiving the benefit if their teenager remains in non-advanced full-time education, such as A-levels, or undertakes unpaid approved training. However, eligibility does not extend to children taking part in courses that are part of a job contract.

High Income Child Benefit Charge and New Digital Service

Families where the claimant or their partner earns between £60,000 and £80,000 may be liable for the High Income Child Benefit Charge.

From summer 2025, under the Government’s Plan for Change, eligible employed parents can opt to pay the charge through their PAYE tax code, reducing the need to file a Self Assessment tax return. Those who prefer the traditional method may still use Self Assessment if they wish.

To estimate the charge, families can use the Child Benefit tax calculator available on GOV.UK.

Previously Opted Out? It’s Easy to Opt Back In

Families who previously opted out of receiving Child Benefit payments can restart their claims at any time via the HMRC app or GOV.UK. The online service also allows users to:

• View payment details

• Provide proof of their claim

• Add additional children

• Update their personal information

Don’t Forget Child Trust Funds

HMRC also reminds parents and teens that those turning 16 can now take control of their Child Trust Fund (CTF), with access to savings once they reach 18. CTFs were set up for children born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011 and may be worth thousands of pounds.

If unsure about the account provider, families can use a free online tool on GOV.UK to locate the fund.