Parents urged to report if 16-year-olds are staying on in education

Parents with a teenager who is 16-years-old and continuing in full time education are being reminded to let HM Revenue and Customs know so they continue to receive child benefit.

HMRC’s Director of Benefits and Credits, Steve Lamey, said: “At this time of year, families decide whether a child will continue in education or training once they have seen their GCSE results.

“If their child is staying on full-time, they need to let us know the full details as soon as possible so that their child benefit doesn’t stop on 30 August.”

Parents will receive a reminder and form in the post from HMRC, asking them to provide HMRC with the following information: 

• details of the course and qualification,
• its start and end dates,
• the name and address of the school or college.

Parents can also make the necessary changes online at www.hmrc.gov.uk/childbenefit/change-circs.htm or by phoning the Child Benefit Helpline on 0845 302 1444.