You can usually claim Child Benefit if you’re responsible for a child under 16, or under 20 if they remain in approved education or training. Apply through the official GOV.UK Child Benefit service, or use form CH2 if you cannot claim online; you can claim from the day after the child is born, but payments may be backdated only for a limited period. Claiming can also help protect National Insurance credits for the person caring for the child. If your income is higher, the High Income Child Benefit Charge may apply, so check the latest GOV.UK guidance for the 2026 rules.