Child Benefit in the UK is usually paid every four weeks, typically on a Monday or Tuesday, resulting in 13 payments per year rather than 12 monthly payments. This means your payment date shifts slightly earlier every month, and one month in the year you receive two payments. The benefit is paid to the person responsible for raising the child and is tax-free. There is an option to receive Child Benefit weekly instead of every four weeks if you are a single parent or receive certain income benefits like Universal Credit or Income Support. The benefit rates as of 2025 are £26.05 per week for the eldest or only child and £17.25 per week for each subsequent child. Child Benefit can be claimed for children under 16 or those under 20 if they remain in approved education or training. You should claim as soon after the child's birth or arrival as possible because claims can only be backdated for up to three months. The Child Benefit benefit payments are made directly into a bank, building society, or post office account. You receive National Insurance credits while claiming Child Benefit, which count toward your State Pension. In summary, Child Benefit payments come every four weeks, but weekly payments are possible under specific conditions, providing financial support to parents or guardians raising children in the UK.
