The new financial year starts on April 6 in the UK - which brings about a whole host of payment changes for those receiving benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Those on Child Benefit payments will see an increase, with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) recently confirming changes from April 11, 2022.
This is an increase of 65p and 45p respectively per week and means the new, regular four-weekly payments will be £87.20 for an eldest or only child and £56.00 for any additional children.
Over the next financial year, this means parents will receive an additional £33.80 and £23.40 respectively.
Here are the changes to Child Benefit and Guardian's Allowance payments in full:
Child Benefit payment rates for 2022/23
There are two Child Benefit rates in place.
Current rates per week
- Eldest or only child - £21.15
- Additional children - £14.00
New rates per week - from April 2022
- Eldest or only child - £21.80
- Additional children - £14.45
Guardian's Allowance rates from April
The new weekly rate for Guardian's Allowance will be £18.55 - an increase of 55p on the current 2021/22 rate of £18.00.
How is Child Benefit and Guardian's Allowance paid?
The payments come through every four weeks on a Monday or a Tuesday and the claimant will also be awarded National Insurance credits which can count towards their State Pension.
What age do Child Benefit payments stop?
Child Benefit can be claimed for any child below 16 or under 20 if they stay in approved education or training.
What if your circumstances change?
Any changes in circumstances which may affect a claimant’s eligibility must be reported to the Child Benefit office immediately.
What else you need to know
There is no limit on how many children can be claimed for, but only one person can receive Child Benefit.
HMRC have also announced the new allowances for Working Tax Credits and Child Tax Credits - see the new threshold rates on GOV.UK here.
