Are you a parent missing out on £27 a week? Here's how to check
Thousands of new parents fail to claim child benefit until it is too late to receive some of the money, HMRC says.
The issue of unclaimed child benefit is a significant one, with HMRC estimating that thousands of new parents are missing out on a substantial amount of money. Child benefit is a tax-free payment of £21.15 for the first child and £14.00 for each subsequent child, which can be worth up to £27 a week for many families. The fact that so many parents are failing to claim this benefit until it's too late is concerning, as it can make a real difference in helping to cover the costs of raising a child.
This problem highlights the importance of awareness and timely action when it comes to claiming benefits. Many new parents may not be aware of their eligibility for child benefit or may not know how to claim it. HMRC's warning serves as a reminder for parents to check their eligibility and make a claim as soon as possible. It's also a call to action for the government and relevant agencies to ensure that new parents are informed about the benefits they are entitled to.
As the cost of living continues to rise, it's essential for families to make the most of the benefits available to them. Parents who have recently had a child or are expecting a baby should check their eligibility for child benefit and make a claim if they're entitled. To watch next: the government's response to this issue and any potential changes to the child benefit system, as well as initiatives to raise awareness about the availability of this benefit among new parents.
Originally reported by bbc.co.uk. 1800News adds analysis for general news readers.