If you have children aged between 16 and 19 years old who are staying in full-time education or training, you’ll need to let HMRC know – otherwise, you could lose out on up to £1,354 a year in Child Benefit.
How to extend Child Benefit Claims
HMRC is contacting parents to remind them to confirm their child’s education or training plans by 31 August 2025. If your child is continuing in full-time non-advanced education or approved training, you must update your Child Benefit Claim – either online or via the HMRC app – to continue receiving payments.
You’ll receive a letter with a QR code that links directly to the digital service on GOV.UK. Alternatively, you can search ‘extend Child Benefit’ online and sign into your account.
If HMRC doesn’t hear from you by 31 August 2025, your Child Benefit payments will stop automatically. Parents can check eligibility on GOV.UK and must update HMRC when their child is no longer eligible.
Child Benefit Charge for High Income Parents
If you or your partner have chosen not to receive Child Benefit payments due to income thresholds, it’s still important to keep your claim up to date. The income threshold for the High Income Child Benefit Charge has recently changed – now applying to those earning between £60,000 and £80,000.
That means some families who previously opted out may not benefit from receiving payments again. Parents can use HMRC’s Child Benefit tax calculator to estimate how much they might receive and whether they’ll need to pay any charge. It’s quick and simple to update your claim or opt back in via the HMRC app or online.
How M+A Partners can help
If you have any queries, please get in touch with your usual contact at M+A Partners.