Child Benefit 2026: Why You Should Always Claim (Even on a High Income)

If you have children and you’re not claiming Child Benefit — even if you earn over £60,000 — you’re potentially losing over £800 a year in future State Pension. Here’s why you should always claim.

Current Rates (2026/27)

• Eldest or only child: £27.05 per week (£1,406.60/year)
• Each additional child: £17.90 per week (£930.80/year)

2026/27 rates took effect from 6 April 2026 and are shown above.

The High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC)

If either parent earns over £60,000, the HICBC starts to claw back Child Benefit through a tax charge. At £80,000, the charge equals 100% of the benefit — effectively cancelling it out.

But here’s the thing: you should claim anyway and opt out of receiving the money. Here’s why:

National Insurance Credits

The parent named on the Child Benefit claim receives Class 3 National Insurance credits automatically. These credits count toward your State Pension. You need 35 qualifying years for a full State Pension. Each missing year costs approximately £800+ per year in pension payments for the rest of your retirement.

If you’re a stay-at-home parent, working part-time below the NI threshold, or not working — these credits are essential. Without a Child Benefit claim, you get nothing.

How to Claim

Claim online at gov.uk/child-benefit or by post using form CH2. You can claim from the day your child is born. You can backdate up to 3 months.

If you’re affected by HICBC, tick the box to opt out of receiving payments but still receive the NI credits.

Common Mistakes

• Not claiming because your partner earns too much. Claim and opt out. The NI credits are worth more in the long run.
• Not claiming for a newborn. There’s no automatic registration. You must actively claim.
• Forgetting to update after separation. If you’ve separated, make sure the claim is in the name of the parent with care.

For a full family budget template that includes Child Benefit, UC, and all entitlements, see our Family Budget Planner.

Getting the Support You’re Entitled To

Many UK families miss out on benefits and support they’re entitled to simply because they don’t know they exist or think they won’t qualify. Use the free benefits calculator at entitledto.co.uk or turn2us.org.uk to check what you could be claiming. These calculators take about 10 minutes and are completely confidential.

If you’re struggling with debt, contact StepChange on 0800 138 1111 (free) or National Debtline on 0808 808 4000 (free). Both provide expert advice without judgement. Citizens Advice (0800 144 8848) can also help with benefit claims, debt, housing, and employment issues.

For a practical budget template designed for UK families, see our Family Budget Planner. And for the latest on benefit changes, our Universal Credit April 2026 guide has everything you need to know.