UK Child Benefit Rises 3.8% from April 2026

Millions of families across the United Kingdom will receive higher Child Benefit payments starting April 6, 2026, as rates rise by 3.8 percent in line with the previous September's consumer price index inflation figure. The adjustment, confirmed by HM Revenue and Customs, will increase weekly support for parents and guardians responsible for children under 16, or under 20 if the child remains in approved education or training.

Under the updated rates for the 2026-27 tax year, the payment for the first or only child will climb to 27.05 pounds per week, up from the current 26.05 pounds. For each additional child, the rate will rise to 17.90 pounds weekly, from 17.25 pounds. This equates to an extra 1 pound per week for families with one child, or roughly 52 pounds annually, assuming full-year eligibility. Households with multiple children will see proportionally larger gains. Payments are typically made every four weeks directly into a bank or building society account, on a Monday or Tuesday, though weekly disbursements are available for single parents or those receiving benefits like Income Support or Universal Credit.

Eligibility requires that claimants be the primary caregiver...