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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Lifestyle
Emma Gill

How much Child Benefit is increasing by and when the new changes come in

Child Benefit is set to increase this year, but perhaps don't get too excited by the amount.

The payment is made to people who are responsible for bringing up a child under 16 or a young person under 20, if they are still in full-time education or on certain approved training courses.

The only exception is if that person, or their partner, earns more than £50k a year, in which case they need to pay some back as income tax. And if they earn over £60k, they need to give it all back.

Paid every four weeks to parents - or weekly if they're a single parent or on other benefits like Income Support - it's a huge help for families who are increasingly struggling to make ends meet.

And with the cost of living rising dramatically right now, that's perhaps why parents are seemingly unimpressed with this year's figures.

At the moment they get £21.15 a week for the first child and £14 a week for any additional children.

The rises coming in April will increase those by 65p a week and 45p a week respectively.

After raising the issue on the M.E.N's Manchester Family page, with the rather sarcastic comment 'Just sitting here pondering what to splash out on when Child Benefit increases by 65p a week in April', dozens of parents responded with their suggestions.

"Yes such a hard decision," said Anne Leyland. "What a bloody joke!!"

"Whatever you do, don't go mad and spend it all in one shop," remarked Michelle Brownbill.

(PA)

And no guesses for what Sheila Hughes was referring to when she replied: "Chip in with friends for a cheese and wine party."

Diane Runner suggested buying a 50p mix, while Yvette Moffat said: "65 penny chews, your kids will love ya."

However, others replied saying you wouldn't get anywhere near that amount in the today's climate.

"Ha ha 5p chew these days," said Helen Bimendi, while Becky Walsh added: "Wouldn't get you 65 anymore."

Others were keen to point out that the rise - which will be introduced from the beginning of the new financial year in April - is indeed 'better than a kick in the teeth'.

"Whilst pondering, also ponder on what you would do if you didn't receive anything??" said Kate Corbett. "I know it's not a great deal....but surely it has to help some way?"

And Bev Cross said: "Think we should be grateful we get anything compared to some countries!."

The 3.1% increase brings the annual payment to £1,133 for the first child and £751 for each additional child.

Find out more about the Child Benefit payments on the government website here.

Are you concerned over the rise in the cost of living? Are you worried over fuel and other utility bills rising? Is it forcing you into debt? Let us know in the comments here.

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