Who can claim Child Benefit when parents share custody?

15 Sept 2026, 19:20
Q A Reader Asker

Who can claim Child Benefit when parents share custody?

A ClaimGuide Team Answered by

Only one person can receive Child Benefit for a child at any one time. If parents share custody, they should agree who will claim, usually the parent who has main responsibility for the child or provides most of their day-to-day care. If both parents claim and cannot agree, HMRC will contact them and decide entitlement based on the individual circumstances. The claimant may also receive National Insurance credits, so check the arrangements carefully and use the official GOV.UK Child Benefit guidance if you are unsure.

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