HMRC Child Benefit could stop for thousands of parents next month

Payments from HM Revenue and Customs to thousands of parents claiming Child Benefit could stop next month, just as the value of the benefit rises to £1330 per year for the first child claimed - and £882 for every child after that.

Parents of children and young adults who were in some form of education or training up to the age of 16, but have since left or continued with another approved training scheme, have until May 31 to update their details with the government, or their Child Benefit payments could stop.

There are four dates throughout the year when HMRC checks to see if a child who has turned 16 has continued in education, or left to join the workforce, they are: February 28, May 31, August 31, or November 30. Whichever date comes soonest after their 16th birthday is when their Child Benefit payments will stop, unless they continue in some form of approved training or education.

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Parents and guardians will need to tell HMRC if their child is staying in approved education or training if they want to continue receiving the benefit. Those who look after children and young people that are leaving education and training, are asked to fill out a form as well.

HMRC explains: "Your Child Benefit stops on 31 August on or after your child’s 16th birthday if they leave education or training. It continues if they stay in approved education or training, but you must tell HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

"You’ll be sent a letter in your child’s last year at school asking you to confirm their plans. Only the person who is claiming Child Benefit can update HMRC about their child’s plans."

To claim Child Benefit for a child over 16, their