When Does Child Benefit Stop

Child Benefit is a financial lifeline for many families in the UK, helping to cover the everyday costs of raising children. But it's not always clear how long this support continues. The stopping point depends on your child’s age, what they do after school, and how promptly you inform HMRC. This guide explains when Child Benefit stops, who it affects, how it works in practice, and what your next steps should be.

What is Child Benefit?

Child Benefit is a regular payment made to parents or guardians to help with the costs of raising children. You can usually claim it if you are responsible for a child under 16, or under 20 if they stay in approved education or training. The benefit is not income-based, but those earning over £60,000 may have to pay a tax charge.

As of April 2025, the weekly Child Benefit rates are:

• £25.60 for the eldest or only child

• £16.95 for each additional child

These payments are made every four weeks directly into your bank account.

When does it stop? The key ages and scenarios

The default stopping point for Child Benefit is 31 August after your child turns 16. However, this is only automatic if your child leaves approved education or training. If they continue with eligible education or training, you must inform HMRC to keep receiving payments.

Here’s a breakdown of key scenarios:

1. If your child leaves education at 16
Child Benefit will stop on 31 August following their 16th birthday unless you tell HMRC they are continuing in approved education or training. This includes A-levels, Scottish Highers, NVQs up to level 3, T Levels, or certain types of apprenticeships and traineeships.

2. If your child stays in approved education or training
You can continue receiving Child Benefit until your child turns 20, as long as the course remains eligible. You’ll need to confirm the course details with HMRC each academic year or whenever there’s a change.

3. If your child goes into paid work or higher education
If they leave education to start full-time work or move on to university, payments will stop. Higher education (like degrees or foundation degrees) is not classed as approved for Child Benefit purposes.

4. If your child joins the armed forces or a job with training
These paths usually count as leaving education. Child Benefit would normally stop unless the training is part of a government-approved scheme.

Who needs to notify HMRC and how?

It’s your responsibility to inform HMRC when your child leaves education or training. Failing to do so could mean you’re overpaid, and you might need to repay the money later. HMRC usually sends out a letter as your child approaches 16 asking for updates about their future plans.

You can update your details online via your Government Gateway account or by calling the Child Benefit helpline.

Can Child Benefit be extended temporarily?

In some cases, yes. If your child finishes approved education or training and then enrols in another course within three months, you may still receive Child Benefit during that gap. This is known as the extension period.

For example, if your child finishes college in June and starts a new eligible course in September, you may be entitled to continued payments over the summer.

Pros and cons of Child Benefit beyond age 16

Pros:

• Financial support during a crucial education period

• Protects your National Insurance credits

• Helps with the cost of living if your child remains in full-time education

Cons:

• Payments stop without notice if you forget to inform HMRC

• May trigger High Income Child Benefit Charge if your income exceeds £60,000

• Higher education does not qualify, even if your child remains financially dependent

What if my circumstances change?

You must report changes like:

• Your child leaving or switching education or training

• Your child starting work

• Your child getting married or entering a civil partnership

• Your household income rising above £60,000

These changes can affect whether you qualify or how much tax you might owe through the High Income Child Benefit Charge.

Real-world examples

Example 1:
Emma’s son turned 16 in May 2025. He finishes GCSEs in June and starts A-levels in September. Because he’s continuing in approved education, Emma tells HMRC, and her Child Benefit continues.

Example 2:
James’s daughter turns 16 in February and gets a full-time job in June. She’s not continuing education, so James’s Child Benefit stops on 31 August that year.

Are there any alternatives?

If Child Benefit stops, you might still be eligible for:

• Universal Credit (if your income is low)

• Help with childcare through Tax-Free Childcare or UC childcare elements

• Support from local councils for young people in further education or training

Check the GOV.UK website or speak to a financial adviser for tailored support.

Tips to stay on track

• Keep an eye out for HMRC’s education notification letter around your child’s 16th birthday

• Use the online service to confirm education plans quickly

• Track your income if you’re close to the £60,000 threshold

• Report any changes as soon as possible to avoid overpayments

• Don’t assume Child Benefit will stop or continue on its own – always confirm

Final thoughts

Child Benefit offers valuable support during the years your child is growing up. But as they approach 16, it’s important to understand when and why payments might stop. Keeping HMRC up to date with your child’s education status ensures you get what you’re entitled to and avoid any repayment headaches later on. Stay proactive, stay informed, and you can make the most of this long-running UK benefit.