Understanding Child Benefits
From April 2025, Child Benefit increases to £26.05 for the eldest child and £17.25 for other children. Payments stop after a child turns 16 unless they continue in approved education or training. Parents must update HMRC by 31 August to avoid disruptions.
Qualifying for Child Benefits
Taxpayers entitled to Benefits should be aware that HMRC usually stops paying Child Benefits on the 31 August following a child’s 16th birthday. Under qualifying circumstances, Child Benefits can continue until a child reaches their 20th birthday if they stay in approved education or training. Confirming this to HMRC is essential, or payments will stop.
Approved Education and Training
Approved education must be full-time, with more than 12 hours per week of supervised study or course-related work experience. Approved education includes A levels, T levels, Scottish Highers, NVQs up to Level 3, home education (if started before 16 or after 16 with special educational needs), study programmes in England, and pre-apprenticeships. The course must begin before the child turns 19.
Restrictions on Child Benefits
Parents cannot claim Child Benefits if their child is:
- Studying for a university degree or BTEC Higher National Certificate (advanced course)
- On an apprenticeship (unless it’s a Foundation Apprenticeship in Wales)
- Undertaking a course with an employer’s agreement (e.g., to secure a job or gain skills for an existing job)
Approved Training Programmes
Approved training should be unpaid and can include:
- Wales: Foundation Apprenticeships, Traineeships, or the Jobs Growth Wales+ scheme
- Scotland: The No One Left Behind programme
- Northern Ireland: PEACEPLUS Youth Programme 3.2, Training for Success, or Skills for Life and Work
Courses that are part of a job contract are not approved.
HMRC Notifications
HMRC sends a letter in your child’s last year at school asking you to confirm their plans. The letters include a QR code which, when scanned, directs them straight to GOV.UK to update their claim quickly and easily online. This can also be done on the HMRC app.
Ensuring Continuation of Child Benefits
Parents have until 31 August 2025 to tell HMRC that their 16-year-old is continuing their education or training, and to continue receiving Benefits. No Child Benefits are payable after a young person reaches the age of 20 years.
Conclusion
By knowing the eligibility criteria, approved education and training programmes, and the process for updating HMRC, parents can ensure they continue to receive Child Benefits without interruption. This knowledge helps manage financial responsibilities effectively and ensures that eligible children receive the support they need. If you have any questions or need assistance, contacting HMRC for guidance is recommended.
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