The UK Government has officially confirmed a child benefit increase starting May 2025, providing direct relief to over 7 million families across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This change applies to both the first and second child payment rates, and the updated amounts are already in effect for the May 2025 payment cycle.
The uk child benefit increase updated amounts for 1st and 2nd children reflects the government’s commitment to supporting families during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and rising childcare expenses. Payments are now higher than they’ve been in nearly a decade, with no additional application needed for current claimants.
New Child Benefit Rates for 2025
From April 6, 2025 (reflected in May 2025 payments), the following child benefit 2025 rates apply:
| Child Position | Previous Rate (2024–25) | New Rate (2025–26) |
|---|---|---|
| First or Only Child | £24.00 per week | £25.60 per week |
| Additional Children | £15.90 per week | £16.95 per week |
That means a family with two children will now receive:
£25.60 (1st child) + £16.95 (2nd child) = £42.55 weekly, or £170.20 every 4 weeks
These new amounts are now active and are being deposited directly into bank accounts registered with HMRC as part of the hmrc family payment update.
Who Is Eligible for Child Benefit?
You may claim the child benefit uk 2025 if:
You live in the UK
You’re responsible for a child under 16 (or under 20 if in full-time education/training)
The child lives with you or you contribute significantly to their costs
You or your partner earn less than £60,000 per year (above this, the High-Income Child Benefit Charge may apply)
You do not need to be a UK citizen to claim, but you must have legal residency and meet habitual residence conditions. Only one parent or guardian can claim per child.
How and When Are Payments Made?
Child Benefit is paid every four weeks, directly into your nominated bank account. The updated first and second child payment rates started being reflected in deposits made from May 6, 2025, onwards.
| Payment Frequency | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Standard | Every 4 weeks (Monday or Tuesday) |
| Weekly (option) | Available for single parents or those on Income Support/Universal Credit |
If you’ve recently had a child or adopted, you can claim online via GOV.UK. Most claims are processed within 6–10 weeks, and back payments will include the new rate if the child qualifies from April 6, 2025 onward.
High-Income Child Benefit Tax Charge (HICBC) – Still Applies
If you or your partner earns more than £60,000 per year, you will still be subject to the High-Income Child Benefit Charge, even under the new hmrc family payment update:
1% of benefit repaid for every £100 earned over £60,000
100% repaid if income exceeds £80,000
You may opt out of receiving payments and still get National Insurance credits
This ensures families aren’t overpaid if they don’t qualify financially, while still preserving eligibility for state pension credits.
What the Child Benefit Increase Means for Families
This child benefit 2025 rates update provides immediate relief to working families, single parents, and caregivers managing rising food, energy, and education expenses.
Positive Impacts:
£83 more per year for first child
£54 more per year for second child
Helps offset nursery, school meal, and uniform costs
Reduces reliance on food banks and short-term credit
Promotes financial stability for low- and middle-income households
The uk child benefit increase updated amounts for 1st and 2nd children is especially beneficial for families who are also receiving Universal Credit or Housing Benefit.
FAQs
What is the new weekly child benefit rate in 2025?
From April 6, 2025:
First child: £25.60 per week
Second and subsequent children: £16.95 per week
These are the new child benefit 2025 rates now in effect.
When will I receive the increased payment?
Payments reflecting the increased rates began in May 2025, with the first full-month benefit cycle completed by May 27, 2025.
Will I get this automatically or do I need to reapply?
No reapplication is needed. The increase is automatically applied to all current claimants.
What if my income is over £60,000?
You can still claim, but you’ll need to pay the High-Income Child Benefit Charge. Or you may choose to opt out of payments and avoid repayment.
Can I claim for a child over 16?
Yes, if the child is in approved full-time education or training, you can continue receiving the benefit until they turn 20.
Click here to know more.