Child Benefit


If you’ve just given birth, or adopted a baby, you’re able to claim Child Benefit

Child Benefit is a tax-free payment to help you care for your child which parents can claim for every new child, no matter how much you earn or what National Insurance contributions you have paid.

And if this is your second baby (or more!), you’ll be glad to know you can claim Child Benefit for each child from birth until they’re at least 16 years old.

What you need to qualify for Child Benefit


Every mother or father can claim Child Benefit for their child, as long as they are resident in the UK, and not subject to immigration control.

What it's worth


For 2009/10 you’ll receive £20.00 a week for your first child, and £13.20 a week for each of your other eligible children.

However, for a new child it’s important that you start claiming Child Benefit within three months of your baby’s birth or adoption, otherwise you may lose some of it.

How to claim Child Benefit

  • If you haven’t already got one, you’ll need to call the Child Benefit helpline on 0845 302 1444 to request a Child Benefit claim pack. If it’s easier you can also claim Child Benefit online.
  • Fill in the forms and send them, along with your baby’s original birth certificate, to the Child Benefit Office. Your baby’s birth certificate will be given to you free when you register the birth, and will be returned to you once your Child Benefit claim is sorted out.
  • Your benefit will then be paid directly into your bank or building society account. Or, if you request it, you’ll be sent a cheque which you can cash at a Post Office® branch.

It is usually paid every four weeks in arrears, although if you’re a single parent or your family has a low income, you can choose to be paid weekly if it’s more convenient.

The trigger for your child’s Child Trust Fund (CTF) voucher

Shortly after you’ve registered for Child Benefit, you’ll receive your child’s £250 Child Trust Fund voucher by post – there’s no need to make a separate claim.