Thousands of parents are missing out on weekly child benefit payments because they delay making a claim, the UK's tax authority, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), has warned. The allowance, worth £27.05 per week for the first child and £17.90 for subsequent children, can only be backdated for a maximum of three months from the date the claim is received.
Official data reveals that parents of nearly a third of eligible children do not submit a claim before their baby's first birthday. This delay means some families could be forfeiting hundreds of pounds in support, often amidst the demanding early weeks of parenthood.
To be eligible for child benefit, one parent must make a claim. This claim not only provides financial assistance but also awards National Insurance credits, which contribute towards the claimant's state pension. The necessary documentation includes the child's birth or adoption certificate, bank details, and the National Insurance numbers for both parents, if applicable.
Claims can be initiated as early as 48 hours after a baby's birth is registered. However, the crucial limitation is the three-month backdating period from the date HMRC receives the application. This means that failing to claim promptly can result in a permanent loss of potential entitlement.
In the year leading up to August 2025, over 6.8 million parents received child benefit. However, only 69% of these parents made their claim before their child turned one. This statistic suggests that a significant number of families may not be receiving the full amount of support they are entitled to.
HMRC noted that a portion of these non-claimants may have opted out due to the High Income Child Benefit Charge. This charge begins to reduce payments if one parent earns over £60,000 annually and ceases entirely if one parent's income reaches £80,000. Despite these restrictions, the potential for missed payments remains a concern for families who may be eligible for the full benefit.