Can I claim Child Benefit while Im on maternity leave including if I receive Statutory Maternity Pay?

14 Oct 2026, 04:50
Q A Reader Asker

Can I claim Child Benefit while Im on maternity leave including if I receive Statutory Maternity Pay?

A ClaimGuide Team Answered by

Yes, you can usually claim Child Benefit while on maternity leave, and receiving Statutory Maternity Pay does not normally prevent a claim. Child Benefit is separate from maternity pay and is generally based on caring for a child and meeting the relevant residence rules, rather than being at work. If you or your partner’s adjusted net income is over £60,000, the High Income Child Benefit Charge may reduce the financial benefit or require some or all of it to be repaid through tax. Check the latest guidance and claim through GOV.UK, as your individual circumstances may affect the outcome.

This Q&A is editorial content produced by the ClaimGuide team. It does not guarantee any individual outcome.
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