Millions of families should now be seeing higher Child Benefit payments land in their bank accounts, after last week’s increase came into effect.
From 6 April, payments increased to £27.05 a week for the eldest or only child and £17.90 a week for each additional child, giving families up to £1,406 a year for their first child.
HM Revenue and Customs has confirmed that more than 6.9 million families receiving Child Benefit are now being paid at the new higher rates. Most payments arrive in bank accounts on a Monday or Tuesday.
With payments typically made every four weeks, many parents should now start to notice the increase in their latest or upcoming payment, depending on their payment cycle.
However, officials are warning that thousands of families could still be missing out entirely. Latest figures show only 72% of parents claim Child Benefit within their baby’s first year.
Because claims can only be backdated for three months, delaying an application could mean losing out on hundreds of pounds.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s chief customer officer, said: “Looking after a child can be expensive, especially a newborn. It takes a few minutes to claim Child Benefit via the app and doing so as soon as you can after your baby is born will ensure you don’t miss out on vital financial support.”
Earning over £60k? 💷
Check if you need to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge.
✅ Use the new digital service to pay through your salary if you’re not in Self Assessment.
✅ It’s quick and easy with the HMRC app or online. 📲Find out more here 👉… pic.twitter.com/QhrOrCBogX
— HM Revenue & Customs (@HMRCgovuk) April 12, 2026
Parents are being urged to check their bank accounts now to make sure they are receiving the correct amount, and to act quickly if they have not yet made a claim.
Most applications are now completed online or through the HMRC app, with around 85% of claims submitted digitally.
Experts at Money and Pensions Service also recommend checking eligibility using online tools, as some families may not realise they qualify.
Anna Sharkey from the Money and Pensions Service, said: “Use MoneyHelper’s free Benefits Calculator if you think you, or someone you know, might be eligible for Child Benefit. The calculator will show you all the benefits you’re eligible for.
“Other MoneyHelper tools for new parents include the Baby Cost Calculator to help you budget when having a baby, and the Baby Money Timeline which gives you key dates to help you plan your finances.
“Visit MoneyHelper.org.uk for free and impartial money guidance for everyday money management.”
Payments are made directly into bank accounts and can be managed or updated easily.
Parents should also be aware of the High Income Child Benefit Charge if one partner earns over £60,000, although claiming can still protect National Insurance credits even if payments are repaid.
Officials say families who previously opted out can quickly restart payments, ensuring they benefit from the higher rates now in place.