HMRC Child Benefit claims could stop unless parents act

HM Revenue and Customs has warned that Child Benefit will automatically end on 31 August after a child turns 16, unless families confirm their teenager is staying in education or approved training.

Around 1.5 million parents are set to receive reminder letters in the coming weeks, but officials say there’s no need to wait.

The online service to extend claims is already open, meaning parents who know their child’s plans can update their details now via GOV.UK or the HMRC app.

Child Benefit is currently worth £27.05 a week for the eldest or only child -more than £1,400 a year – making it a significant source of support for many households.

Myrtle Lloyd, Chief Customer Officer at HMRC, said: “Child Benefit is a real financial boost for families, so if your teenager already knows they’re staying in education or training after their GCSEs or National 5s, you don’t need to wait for our letter.

“You can extend your Child Benefit claim today in minutes via the HMRC app or online at GOV.UK.”

The rules apply to teenagers staying in full-time non-advanced education or unpaid training, but payments will stop automatically if no update is made.

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Around 1.5 million letters will be sent to parents of 16-19-year-olds from late April 2026.

Letters are expected to arrive from May 8, but parents do not need to wait for their letter.

For many families, the message is simple: check now, or risk missing out.