Deadline looms for parents to update child benefit for 16-year-olds

Photo: beeboys - stock.adobe.com

It is quick and easy to update child benefit records via GOV.UK; alternatively, parents or carers can return the 297b form sent to them by HMRC

Parents and carers have until 31 August 2021 to confirm whether their teenagers are staying in full-time education or training beyond 16.

Teenagers recently received their GSCE results and many are now considering their future. If they decide to continue their full-time education or training, parents or carers will be eligible to continue receiving child benefit payments for their child.

HMRC has sent reminder letters to families receiving child benefit for their child in the last year of school or home education. If their child is staying in education beyond age 16, parents or carers must notify HMRC by the end of August, or their child benefit will be stopped.

Child benefit records can be updated via GOV.UK. Alternatively, parents or carers can return the 297b form sent to them by HMRC.

Child benefit is paid to eligible parents or carers who are responsible for a child under 16, or under 20 if they are in full-time non-advanced education or approved training.

Parents or carers receiving Child Benefit and who also have an income over £50,000 (or their partner does), may have to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge via an annual Self Assessment tax return. 

From 30 November, HMRC will stop making payments of child benefit, guardians sllowance and tax credits, into Post Office card accounts, which are closing. Recipients of child benefit and tax credits who use this account to receive their payments, will need to notify HMRC of their new bank, building society or credit union account details. Contact HMRC’s helpline (0345 300 3900) or use your personal tax account.

To find out how to open a bank account, visit Citizens Advice.