How to claim child benefits

by Aitch, posted in Income Tax

An application to claim child benefits can usually be made 48 hours after you have registered the birth of your child, or once a child comes to live with you. An application for child benefit can be backdated for up to 3 months. 

An application for child benefit is usually made online either using the government gateway. If you are unable to complete a claim online, it is also possible to claim child benefit by completing the Child Benefit form CH2 and sending it to the Child Benefit Office. The address is on the form. If a claim is being made for more than 2 children, complete the additional child CH2(CS) form and send it with your CH2. It is also possible to contact HMRC to make a claim by phone if the online or postal routes are not available. Making an application through the government gateway will usually be the fastest way to make a claim.

Child benefit is also usually payable for children who come to the UK. However, there are a number of rules which must be met in order to claim. HMRC must be notified without delay if a child receiving child benefit moves permanently abroad.

The child benefit rates for the only or eldest child in a family is currently £26.05 a week and the weekly rate for all other children is £17.25. These rates will increase to £27.05 and £17.90 respectively from April 2026.

Source:HM Revenue & Customs | 23-02-2026
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Aitch
I'm Aitch, the Founder and CEO of CIGMA Accounting Ltd. As a Chartered Management Accountant and as a CIMA member, I've spent more than 16 years helping businesses, entrepreneurs, landlords, and individuals with tax planning, accounting, and HMRC compliance. As a chartered accountant in London, I'm passionate about making complex tax matters easier to understand and helping clients make confident financial decisions. Over the years, I've advised start-ups, SMEs, established companies, and high-net-worth individuals across a wide range of tax and accounting matters. My expertise includes Corporation Tax, Self-Assessment, Capital Gains Tax, Inheritance Tax planning, R&D tax relief, capital allowances, international tax, and resolving complex HMRC compliance issues. Whether clients need a business accountant, tax accountant, or strategic tax advisor, my focus is always on delivering practical advice that creates long-term value. One of my specialist areas is Making Tax Digital (MTD). I've worked extensively with businesses preparing HMRC's digital reporting requirements, helping them move to cloud accounting, improve financial processes, and adopt technology that makes compliance more efficient. I regularly speak at Making Tax Digital roadshows, industry events, and educational sessions in collaboration with Zoho Books, sharing practical insights into digital accounting, tax legislation, and the future of the profession. Many business owners looking for the best accounting firm in London are not simply searching for an accountant they're looking for trusted advice, responsive support, and long-term value. That's the approach I've taken in building CIGMA Accounting. My team and I work closely with businesses across London and the UK, providing accounting services, tax advisory, bookkeeping, payroll, VAT, company accounts, and strategic tax planning tailored to each client's goals. Through this website, I share practical guidance on UK taxation, Making Tax Digital, HMRC updates, Corporation Tax, Self-Assessment, and business finance. My aim is to provide reliable, straightforward information that helps business owners understand changing regulations, reduce compliance risks, and make informed financial decisions with confidence.
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