How Much Is Child Benefit in 2026/27?
Child Benefit is £27.05 a week for your eldest or only child and £17.90 for each additional child.
The rates
| Child | Weekly | Yearly |
|---|---|---|
| Eldest or only child | £27.05 | £1,406.60 |
| Each additional child | £17.90 | £930.80 |
Who can claim
You can claim if you are responsible for a child under 16, or under 20 if they stay in approved education or training. It is not means-tested, so you can claim whatever you earn, but higher earners may pay some back through tax.
The high income charge
If you or your partner earn over £60,000, you pay 1% of your Child Benefit back for every £200 over that, up to the full amount at £80,000. Use the Child Benefit charge calculator.
Why claim even if you will pay it back
Claiming gives you National Insurance credits towards your State Pension, which matters if you are not working. You can claim and choose not to receive the payments.
How to claim
Claim on GOV.UK or through the HMRC app. You can usually backdate a claim by three months.
This guide is general information, not financial or legal advice. Rates checked 8 October 2026 against GOV.UK.
Frequently asked questions
How much is Child Benefit for one child?
£27.05 a week, or £1,406.60 a year.
Do I get Child Benefit if I earn over £60,000?
You can still claim, but you pay back part through the High Income Child Benefit Charge, and all of it at £80,000.
Related
Figures are for the 2026/27 tax year from official sources and are estimates for guidance only, not financial or legal advice. Printed from ukanswers.co.uk.