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Millions to see Child Benefit increase in 2026 as new amount confirmed

From April 2026, the DWP confirmed millions of families who claim Child Benefit will receive increased payments, and HMRC says families with ongoing claims will get higher amounts directly in their bank accounts.
The Department for Work and Pensions confirmed payments will rise by more than 6% in April 2026, combining the Consumer Prices Index to September 2025 with a 2.3% standard allowance uprating.
HMRC confirmed the new weekly rates: Child Benefit rises to £27.05 for the eldest child, £17.90 for additional children, and Guardian’s Allowance increases to £22.95 weekly.
Families should note the tax implication: households may have to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge if a partner’s adjusted net income exceeds the threshold, and Child Benefit provides National Insurance credits toward State Pension records.
The Universal Credit Act 2025 will exempt about 200,000 individuals with severe conditions from reassessment, with rates rising at least with inflation through 2029/30, as the UC rules shift in 2026.

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