A wave of financial support is hitting UK bank accounts this month as families receiving Child Benefit may experience payments arriving sooner than anticipated.
This shift stems from recent adjustments made by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) regarding benefit rates. The upcoming Easter holidays are also playing a role, accelerating some payments to ensure families aren’t left waiting over the long weekend.
Child Benefit is designed to assist parents and guardians raising children under 16 or those between 16 and 20 who are still pursuing approved education or training. It offers a regular allowance—typically delivered every four weeks—along with valuable National Insurance credits that contribute toward an individual’s future State Pension.
The updated rates, effective April 7th, outline the following weekly amounts:
- First or only child: £26.05
- Each additional child: £17.25
These changes bring financial advantages to families; parents with a single child will enjoy an extra £42.48 annually, while those supporting two children will see a boost of £15.60 per year.
Typically, Child Benefit is distributed every four weeks on either a Monday or Tuesday. This translates to approximately £104.20 per month for families with one child and £69 per month for each additional child they receive the benefit for.
While only one individual can claim benefits for a given child, there’s no limit to the number of children you can be eligible to claim for. Payment schedules are subject to change when they coincide with public holidays.
With two bank holidays occurring in April – Good Friday (April 18th) and Easter Monday (April 21st)—families should note potential alterations to their payment dates. Specifically, those expecting a payment on the usual date of Monday, April 21st will receive it four days earlier, on Thursday, April 17th.
According to HMRC, “You can work out when you’re next going to get Child Benefit by counting four weeks forward from your last payment. Do not count forward if your payment was due on a bank holiday – the dates are different.”
They further advise: “Your payment might be delayed if the bank is closed for a public holiday on the day HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) pays you. Check with your bank for the date you’ll get your payment.”
To facilitate smooth financial planning during this Easter period, parents are encouraged to be mindful of these potential shifts in payment schedules. Should concerns arise regarding possible delays, direct contact with their banking institution is recommended to confirm processing timelines.
