Sussex Parents Urged to Extend Child Benefit Claims Before August Deadline

Parents across Sussex are being reminded to extend their Child Benefit claims if their teenager is staying in education or training from September.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) says claims must be updated by 31 August, otherwise payments will automatically stop.

With GCSE results out this week, families who know their teenager’s next steps are encouraged to renew now via the HMRC app or online.

More than half a million parents have already extended their claims, with a record 67% choosing the quick digital option.

Child Benefit is currently worth £26.05 per week (£1,354.60 a year) for the eldest or only child, and £17.25 per week (£897 a year) for each additional child.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said:

“Teenagers can be expensive and Child Benefit is an important source of income for your household.

"As soon as you know what your teen is doing in September, don’t miss out. You can extend your claim in minutes through the HMRC app or online.”

Payments can continue for young people in full-time non-advanced education, approved training, and – from September – those who are home educated or unable to attend college due to illness or disability.

More details and a full list of approved courses are available at GOV.UK.