Child Benefit
This is paid to a person who is responsible for:
- a child or young person aged 0 – 15
- a young person aged 16 to 18 (in some cases 19), who is in ‘relevant’ full-time education or training.
Relevant education or training includes:
- GCSEs
- A levels
- NVQ level 1, 2 or 3
- BTEC National Diploma, National Certificate or 1st Diploma
- Entry to Employment (e2e)
- Unwaged Apprenticeships
(To see the complete list of ‘relevant’ education or training, visit www.hmrc.gov.uk/childbenefit )
When does Child Benefit stop?
Child Benefit stops on the Monday following 31 August, after your 16th birthday unless your parents have told the Child Benefit service that you’re staying on in full-time education or approved training.
If you’re 16 or 17 and not in education, training or employment, your parents can apply to receive extended Child Benefit for 20 weeks from the date you left full time education or training. To qualify, you must be ‘registered’ with Connexions.
How do I register with Connexions?
Visit your local Connexions Centre to discuss your plans with a Personal Adviser. They will ‘register’ that you are seeking Connexions’ help in finding a job or training place. This allows your parents to apply for extended Child Benefit.
It’s your parents' responsibility to apply - there’s a time limit of three months from the date you leave school, college or approved training. Your parents should tell the Child Benefit Office when you start a job or training.
Can Child Benefit restart?
If you return to full-time ‘relevant’ education before you’re 19, Child Benefit can start again. For more information see the Child Benefit section on www.hmrc.gov.uk/childbenefit
Can young parents claim Child Benefit?
Yes. You can claim Child Benefit for each child you are responsible for. If you’re a young parent and you’re working 16 hours or more a week, you can also apply for Working Tax Credit.
