Parents with 16 to 19-year-olds who are continuing in non-advanced approved education or training have until 31 August to extend their Child Benefit claim. Failure to do so will result in payments stopping automatically, according to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
This Thursday, 20 August, marks GCSE results day, a key date for many teenagers deciding their future plans. For families whose child will continue in eligible education or training, Child Benefit can continue if parents act before the deadline.
HMRC's Chief Customer Officer, Myrtle Lloyd, stated that Child Benefit is a vital support for many families and encouraged parents to confirm their plans. Extending a claim can be done quickly using the HMRC app or GOV.UK. Over 372,000 parents have already extended their payments digitally.
Child Benefit can be worth up to £1,406.60 a year for the eldest or only child, and up to £930.80 annually for each additional child. Eligible education includes A levels, T levels, Scottish Highers, and NVQs up to level 3, as well as certain approved training schemes.
Parents whose child's plans change, such as leaving education or starting a paid apprenticeship, must inform HMRC immediately to prevent overpayments. Additionally, if a Child Benefit claimant or their partner has an individual adjusted net income exceeding £60,000, they may be subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC).