Can a couple claim Child Benefit for their children and does one parent have to be the claimant?

24 Sept 2026, 15:20
Q A Reader Asker

Can a couple claim Child Benefit for their children and does one parent have to be the claimant?

A ClaimGuide Team Answered by

Yes, a couple can claim Child Benefit if they are responsible for bringing up a child under 16, or under 20 in approved education or training. Only one person can receive Child Benefit for each child, so you should agree which parent claims; claiming can also help protect National Insurance credits. If either partner has income above the relevant threshold, the High Income Child Benefit Charge may mean some or all of the benefit is repaid. Check the latest rules and apply through the official GOV.UK Child Benefit guidance.

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