UK Child Tax Credit 2025 – Eligibility, Payment Dates & Amounts

The UK government has announced the termination of Child Tax Credit as of 5 April 2025. After this date, no further payments will be issued under this scheme. Instead, eligible claimants may transition to Universal Credit or Pension Credit, depending on their circumstances.

Introduced initially in the 1909 People’s Budget by David Lloyd George, Child Tax Credit has played a significant role in supporting low-income families. With its phase-out, families will need to explore alternative financial support options.

Transition to Universal Credit and Pension Credit

Since Child Tax Credit is being replaced, individuals currently receiving it must determine if they qualify for Universal Credit or Pension Credit.

• Universal Credit: If you are below the state pension age and require financial assistance, Universal Credit is the new alternative. This includes a child element to help cover the costs of raising children.
• Pension Credit: If you and your partner have reached the state pension age, you may qualify for Pension Credit instead.

If you are already receiving Working Tax Credit, you may continue to claim Child Tax Credit for the time being. However, new applicants must apply for Universal Credit.

Payment Amounts and Support Offered

The amount provided under the current Child Tax Credit system depends on the number of children you have and whether you are making a new claim or already receiving payments.

Maximum Annual Child Tax Credit Payments

Criteria	Amount Per Year
Child born before 6 April 2017	Up to £3,455 per child
First or second child after 6 April 2017	Up to £3,455 per child
Expecting twins or triplets	Special considerations apply

For those who continue to qualify, these payments will remain in place until the transition to Universal Credit is fully completed.

Also Read: UK Car Tax Check – Instantly Verify Your Road Tax Status Online

Universal Credit and Childcare Support

Child Tax Credit is one of six benefits being replaced by Universal Credit. If you have childcare expenses, you may be eligible to claim up to 85% of your childcare costs through Universal Credit. For the 2024/25 tax year, the maximum claimable amounts are:

• £1,014.63 per month for one child
• £1,739.37 per month for two or more children

Child Tax Credit Payment Schedule

All benefits, including Child Tax Credit, are paid into the bank account of the person responsible for the child. Payments are typically made either weekly or every four weeks, depending on the claimant’s preference.

Important Notes:

• Payments will continue until the end of the tax year (5 April 2025) unless your circumstances change.
• If your payment date falls on a bank holiday, you may receive your payment earlier.

Adjustments to Child Benefit Rates in 2025

From April 2025, the UK government will introduce updated Child Benefit Payment Rates to reflect inflation and provide better support to families.

New Weekly Payment Rates

Child Position	Amount per Week
Eldest or only child	£26.05
Each additional child	£17.25

Example Calculation:

• First child: £26.05
• Second child: £17.25
• Third child: £17.25
• Total weekly benefit: £60.55

Eligibility Criteria

To claim Child Benefit or Universal Credit’s child element, certain conditions must be met.

Basic Eligibility

• Child’s Age: Must be under 16 or under 20 if in approved education or training.
• Residency Requirements: The child must live in the UK or meet specific residency conditions.
• Unique Claimant Rule: Only one person can claim benefits per child.

Special Situations

• Foster parents and legal guardians may claim if they meet eligibility requirements.
• Interaction with other benefits: Claiming Child Benefit may impact eligibility for Universal Credit and other financial support programs. Families should verify how multiple benefit claims could affect their overall income.

Addressing Payment Delays or Issues

If you experience a delayed or incorrect payment, contact the Child Benefit Helpline immediately. Keeping a record of payment dates and amounts is crucial for resolving discrepancies.

Also Read: £1,739 Universal Credit Bonus, Check Eligibility & Claim Now

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I still apply for Child Tax Credit in 2025?

No, new applications for Child Tax Credit are no longer accepted. You will need to apply for Universal Credit instead.

2. Will my Child Benefit payments stop in 2025?

No, Child Benefit remains in place and will continue to be paid with revised rates starting April 2025.

3. What happens if I have a child after 6 April 2017?

You can only claim Child Tax Credit for them if they are your first or second child. Otherwise, you must apply for Universal Credit.

4. What should I do if my payment is late?

Check if your payment date falls on a bank holiday. If not, contact the Child Benefit Helpline for assistance.

5. How does Universal Credit support childcare costs?

Universal Credit reimburses up to 85% of eligible childcare expenses, up to a monthly limit of £1,014.63 for one child and £1,739.37 for two or more children.

6. Can both parents claim Child Benefit for the same child?

No, only one parent or guardian can claim Child Benefit per child.

7. Will my Child Tax Credit automatically switch to Universal Credit?

No, you must apply for Universal Credit separately if you are affected by the Child Tax Credit phase-out.

By understanding these changes, families can take proactive steps to ensure financial stability in the face of these policy shifts. If you have concerns about your eligibility or payment amounts, consult official government resources or seek professional advice.