Thousands of new parents could be missing out on more than £1,400 a year because they have not claimed Child Benefit - and many do not realise the clock is ticking.
New figures from HM Revenue and Customs reveal that more than 30% of parents fail to claim Child Benefit during their baby’s first year.
That means huge numbers of families could be losing out on vital support at a time when household bills, childcare costs and everyday expenses are soaring.
HMRC is now urging parents who welcomed a baby this spring to act quickly and submit a claim online or through the HMRC app.
The warning comes as more than 6.8 million families across the UK already receive the payments - worth up to £1,406.60 a year for a first child.
Parents can also receive £930.80 a year for each additional child, with no limit on how many children can be included in a claim.
But there is a catch many families do not know about.
Child Benefit can only be backdated for three months, meaning parents who delay too long could permanently lose money they were entitled to.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said: “Spring is a wonderful time to welcome a baby and claiming Child Benefit as soon as possible means your family can benefit from much-needed financial support.
“It is quick and easy to claim Child Benefit via the HMRC app at a time that suits you.”
📢 Parents - don’t miss out this summer! 🌞
If your child is over 16 and staying in education or approved training, your Child Benefit can continue - but you need to act. 🚨
Check and extend your claim now using the HMRC app or online now. 👇https://t.co/se9CKHarEv
Cymraeg… pic.twitter.com/qNbyu7502s— HM Revenue & Customs (@HMRCgovuk) May 15, 2026
Parents can apply just 48 hours after registering their baby’s birth.
To make a claim, families need their child’s birth or adoption certificate, bank details and National Insurance numbers.
Experts say many parents wrongly assume Child Benefit is only for low-income households - but millions still qualify even if one parent earns over £60,000.
Although higher earners may have to repay some of the money through the High Income Child Benefit Charge, claiming is still considered important because it protects National Insurance credits linked to the State Pension.
Failing to claim could also affect future entitlements.
Parents who claim Child Benefit automatically ensure their child receives a National Insurance number at age 16, while the award notice can also help families access other benefits and support.
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HMRC says most payments are made automatically every four weeks directly into a bank account once a claim has been approved.
The team has also released guidance videos online explaining how parents can apply digitally in minutes.
For many families struggling with rising living costs, experts say checking eligibility now could make a significant difference before valuable payments are lost for good.
Have you checked you're eligible? Let us know in the comments.
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