HMRC has confirmed that child benefit payments have been delayed, leaving thousands of parents out of pocket. The tax authority is aware of issues with the system responsible for transferring funds directly to bank accounts and is currently working to resolve the problem.
Child benefit provides a crucial income supplement for families, with payments of £25.60 per week for an eldest or only child and £16.95 per week for any additional children. According to the latest data, over 7.65 million households claim this benefit. However, payments do not occur on the same day for all recipients. Typically, child benefit is paid every four weeks on a Monday or Tuesday, but single parents and those receiving certain other benefits, such as Universal Credit, can opt for weekly payments.
Thousands of parents took to social media this morning (3 June) to report that they had not received their expected payments.
One parent posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Can we at least be informed when child benefit will be paid for the ones now in overdraft due to bills!” Another wrote: “Child benefit hasn’t gone in. Seeing some kids unable to get to school because of no bus fare and others with no money for food. Miss that one tiny payment, and we’re all f****.” A further comment read: “My child benefit hasn’t gone in today! When will we get it?”
An HMRC spokesperson stated: “We are aware some customers’ child benefit payments have not arrived and we are working to resolve the issue.”
It remains unclear how many households are affected by the delay, but HMRC has been inundated with complaints from frustrated parents on social media. Many parents responded to a poll by Martin Lewis, founder of MoneySavingExpert.com, with around 80% reporting they had experienced the delay. Lewis posted on X: “It’s early, but currently, it looks like 80% of people expecting child benefit payments this morning haven’t got it.”
Parents who have not received their payments are advised to contact HMRC on 0300 200 3100 for further information on when they might expect their money.
Understanding Child Benefit
Child benefit is designed to help parents cover the costs of childcare. Payments are made at two rates: £25.60 per week for the eldest or only child, and £16.95 per week for each additional child. Typically, payments are made every four weeks on a Monday or Tuesday, though some parents may receive them weekly.
In addition to the financial support, claiming child benefit for a child under 12 also entitles parents to National Insurance (NI) credits, which count towards their State Pension. These credits are essential as 35 NIC years are required to receive a full new State Pension.
Eligibility for child benefit is based on living with and financially supporting a child. However, this changes if the child goes into hospital or care, or starts living with someone else.
Since 2013, high earners have been required to repay some or all of their child benefit through the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC). The threshold for repayment has recently increased from £50,000 to £60,000, and the threshold for full repayment has risen from £60,000 to £80,000. It is the individual’s responsibility to pay this charge, and failing to do so can result in a significant bill.