New parents urged to claim Child Benefit for their baby now

22 May 2026

One in three new parents are missing out on Child Benefit payments in their baby's first year, according to HMRC's figures.

The tax authority is urging parents who welcomed a baby this spring to claim now via the HMRC app or online at GOV.UK.

HMRC's data shows that while more than 6.8 million parents received Child Benefit in the year to August 2025, only 68.8% of them claimed the crucial government support before their baby's first birthday.

It says that more than 140,000 babies were born between April and June last year and while many parents are enjoying new beginnings this spring, the latest statistics show thousands of families could be missing out on much-needed cash by delaying their claim.

Child Benefit is worth £27.05 per week - or £1,406.60 a year - for the eldest or only child and £17.90 per week - or £930.80 a year - for each additional child, with no limit as to how many children parents can claim for.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC's Chief Customer Officer, said: 'Spring is a wonderful time to welcome a baby and claiming Child Benefit as soon as possible means your family can benefit from much-needed financial support.

'It is quick and easy to claim Child Benefit via the HMRC app at a time that suits you.'