Introduction: Why HMRC is Urging Parents This Christmas
Every December, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) releases timely reminders for families across the UK. In 2024, the campaign titled “Get your Child Benefit claim wrapped up for baby’s first Christmas” encouraged new parents to submit claims quickly to ensure they receive financial support before the festive holidays. In 2025, the message remains just as important. HMRC urges parents to claim Child Benefit for Christmas not only to ease seasonal financial pressures but also to secure long-term entitlements like National Insurance credits and automatic National Insurance number registration for their children.
With the holiday season being one of the most financially challenging times of the year, this initiative helps parents make sure they don’t miss out on money they are entitled to.
What is Child Benefit and Who Can Claim?
Child Benefit is a regular payment from the UK government designed to support parents or guardians with the cost of raising children. It is available to most parents regardless of income, though higher earners may face a tax charge. Claiming Child Benefit also opens doors to additional perks, such as protecting your State Pension entitlement.
Eligibility Criteria:
- You are responsible for raising a child under the age of 16 (or under 20 if in approved education or training).
- You live in the UK.
- Only one person can receive Child Benefit for each child.
By encouraging families to claim early, HMRC urges parents to claim Child Benefit for Christmas so that payments arrive in time to make a meaningful difference during the holidays.
Why HMRC Urges Parents to Claim Child Benefit for Christmas
The Christmas season is often expensive—gifts, food, travel, and family activities can all stretch household budgets. HMRC’s campaign is aimed at helping families access financial support before the festive rush.
In addition, making a claim promptly ensures:
- Faster Payments – Parents can receive money before Christmas if they apply online.
- Avoiding Delays – Paper applications often take longer to process.
- Access to Added Benefits – Such as National Insurance credits that safeguard retirement plans.
The message is clear: by taking action now, parents won’t risk missing out when expenses are highest.
How Much is Child Benefit Worth in 2025?
From 7 April 2025, the latest Child Benefit rates are:
- £26.05 per week (£1,354.60 annually) for the first or only child.
- £17.25 per week (£897 annually) for each additional child.
This means that a family with two children could receive over £2,251 a year—a substantial amount of support that can help offset the rising costs of living. This is exactly why HMRC urges parents to claim Child Benefit for Christmas, as every payment can make a real difference.
The Digital Shift: Claiming Child Benefit Online and via the HMRC App
In recent years, HMRC has moved towards digital-first services. Parents can now:
- Claim online within 48 hours of registering a birth.
- Use the HMRC app to track payments, update details, or manage claims.
- Receive payments often within three working days of approval.
By 2024, over 87% of new Child Benefit claims were made online, and the trend is expected to keep growing. Digital claims are not only faster but also reduce paperwork and errors.
Benefits Beyond the Cash: National Insurance Credits and Pensions
One often-overlooked reason why HMRC urges parents to claim Child Benefit for Christmas is that claiming secures important long-term benefits:
- National Insurance Credits: Stay-at-home parents (often mothers) gain credits towards their State Pension.
- Automatic National Insurance Numbers for Children: Each child receives a NI number at age 16, simplifying their financial future.
Skipping a claim could mean losing out on these future entitlements—even if parents don’t need the immediate money.
How to Make a Claim Before Christmas
Parents who want to ensure payments arrive before Christmas should:
- Register the birth with their local council.
- Apply online via GOV.UK or through the HMRC app.
- Have key details ready: child’s birth certificate, National Insurance number, and bank details.
The process usually takes minutes online, and successful claims are paid directly into a parent’s bank account.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Claiming
When claiming Child Benefit, avoid these pitfalls:
- Delaying registration of your child’s birth.
- Filing paper applications too close to Christmas (delays are common).
- Not claiming at all because of the High Income Child Benefit Tax Charge—parents can opt in but choose not to receive payments, still securing NI credits.
By steering clear of these mistakes, parents can ensure they get both immediate and long-term benefits.
Why This Matters More During the Festive Season
The festive season is filled with joy, but also financial stress. HMRC knows that timely support can relieve some of the burden. When HMRC urges parents to claim Child Benefit for Christmas, it’s not just about cash in hand—it’s about easing pressure on families and helping ensure no parent misses out on financial and social benefits.
FAQs on HMRC Urges Parents to Claim Child Benefit for Christmas
1. Can both parents claim Child Benefit?
No. Only one parent or guardian can claim per child.
2. What if I earn over £60,000?
You may face the High Income Child Benefit Tax Charge, but it is still worth registering to secure NI credits.
3. How long does it take to get paid?
Online applications are usually processed in a few working days, while paper applications can take longer.
4. Do I need to reapply each year?
No. Once you claim, payments continue automatically until your child no longer qualifies.
5. Can I claim if my child was just born in December?
Yes. As soon as the birth is registered, you can claim.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss Out on Your Child Benefit This Christmas
In conclusion, HMRC urges parents to claim Child Benefit for Christmas as part of its ongoing effort to support families across the UK. The payment is more than just festive financial relief—it provides long-term benefits that can shape both parents’ and children’s futures. Whether it’s easing the cost of presents and holiday meals or protecting your pension rights, Child Benefit is a lifeline worth claiming.
So, if you’ve recently welcomed a child, act now. Claiming online through GOV.UK or the HMRC app is quick, simple, and secure. Don’t let this Christmas pass without unlocking the benefits your family deserves.
Have you claimed your Child Benefit yet? Share your experiences in the comments below, subscribe for more family finance updates, Why People Ask “Why Is Robert Peston Not on TV Tonight?”
