Thousands of parents in the UK are being reminded to act quickly as the deadline to extend child benefit payments approaches. Families could miss out on more than £1,354 per year if they do not update HMRC before August 31.
What Happened
Child benefit is automatically paid until a child turns 16. After that, payments stop unless parents notify HMRC that their child is continuing in education or training. To keep receiving the benefit, families must apply for an extension before the August 31 deadline.
HMRC confirmed that reminder letters were sent in May and July, but parents who did not receive one can still apply online using their Government Gateway account or the official HMRC app.
Who Is Eligible
Parents can continue to claim child benefit if their child is:
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Between 16 and 19 years old
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In full-time education, such as A-levels, T Levels, Scottish Highers, or NVQs up to level 3
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In home education (if started before 16, or later with special educational needs)
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Enrolled in a study programme in England
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In a pre-apprenticeship course
Parents are not eligible if the child is pursuing a university degree, a paid apprenticeship, or job-related training.
Background and Timeline
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May–July 2025: HMRC issued reminder letters to parents.
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August 31, 2025: Final deadline for parents to update HMRC and extend their payments.
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If approved, child benefit can continue until the child turns 19, giving families up to an extra three years of support worth £4,063.80.
The benefit is worth:
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£26.05 per week (£1,354.60 annually) for the eldest or only child
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£17.25 per week (£897 annually) for each additional child
Payments are made automatically every four weeks into the parent’s bank account.
Public and Social Media Reaction
The approaching deadline has sparked discussion among UK parents on forums and social media. Many are urging others not to overlook the reminder, pointing out that the support can ease financial pressures, especially during the ongoing cost-of-living challenges. Campaigners have also highlighted that not claiming could mean missing out on National Insurance credits, which help parents build towards their state pension.
Official Statement and What Happens Next
HMRC is reminding parents that the responsibility lies with them to confirm their child’s continued education. In addition, the government has announced a crackdown on fraudulent claims, with Cabinet Office Minister Georgia Gould stating:
“This government is putting a stop to people claiming benefits when they aren’t eligible to do so. From September, we’ll have ten times as many investigators saving hundreds of millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money.”
Parents are encouraged to check their eligibility, apply online, and avoid missing out on thousands of pounds of support.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
