Families across the UK and Ireland are getting a welcome financial boost in 2025, thanks to new government updates aimed at easing the cost of raising children. In the UK, child benefit payments have increased, and many families already received a one-off double payment in late 2024. Meanwhile, Ireland is rolling out a €420 Baby Bonus for children born or adopted after December 1, 2024.
These changes are designed to ease the burden of inflation and support parents through one of life’s most rewarding yet expensive journeys. If you’re raising kids, here’s how to make sure you’re claiming every penny you’re entitled to.
Overview
Here’s a quick glance at the updated benefits in both the UK and Ireland:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| UK Child Benefit | £26.05/week for first child, £17.25/week for others |
| One-Off Double Payment | Issued in Nov–Dec 2024 to help with rising costs |
| Ireland Baby Bonus | €420 for children born/adopted after Dec 1, 2024 |
| Claim Backdating | Up to 3 months |
| Claim Method | Online, paper form, or HMRC app in the UK; automatic in Ireland |
| HICBC Threshold (UK) | High earners over £60,000 repay some or all Child Benefit |
What Is Child Benefit?
Child Benefit is a government payment for anyone responsible for raising a child. It helps with everyday costs like food, school supplies, and healthcare. In the UK, it’s paid monthly to one parent and continues until the child turns 16, or 20 if they stay in education or training.
Unlike many other benefits, Child Benefit is not means-tested, but there’s a twist for higher earners who might need to repay some of it through the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC).
In Ireland, Child Benefit works similarly and is automatically paid once the child’s birth is registered.
What’s New in 2025?
The UK government has increased Child Benefit amounts to reflect inflation:
- £26.05 per week for the eldest or only child
- £17.25 per week for each additional child
These changes kicked in from July 2025, ensuring families don’t lose out in real terms as prices continue to rise.
Double Payment Bonus
Families were also given a double payment in November and December 2024 as part of a cost-of-living support package. While this was a one-off measure, it offered meaningful short-term relief and set a positive precedent for future interventions.
Ireland’s €420 Baby Bonus
New or expectant parents in Ireland now benefit from a €420 payment split as follows:
- €280 New Baby Grant
- €140 standard Child Benefit for the first month
To qualify, your child must be born or adopted on or after December 1, 2024. The bonus is paid automatically once the birth is registered.
Who Can Claim?
You can claim if:
- You live in the UK
- You’re responsible for a child under 16 (or under 20 in full-time education)
- Only one person in the household is claiming for that child
High Income Charge (HICBC)
If you or your partner earns over £60,000, you’ll need to repay some or all of your Child Benefit via a Self Assessment tax return. But even if you don’t keep the full payment, you should still claim to:
- Protect your National Insurance record
- Ensure your child gets a National Insurance number at 16
Use the HICBC calculator on GOV.UK to see how much you may need to repay.
Ireland Eligibility
To qualify for the €420 Baby Bonus:
- You must live in Ireland and be the child’s main caregiver
- Your child must be born or adopted on or after December 1, 2024
- Birth must be registered within 3 months
How to Claim
- Register your child’s birth through your local council
- Download and complete the CH2 form or use the HMRC mobile app
- Submit it by post to the Child Benefit Office or apply online via GOV.UK
First-time claims can take 6–12 weeks. You can backdate claims up to three months, so don’t delay.
Ireland
- Register the birth or adoption within 3 months
- Wait for automatic payment of €420 to be processed
- Contact the Child Benefit Section if you don’t receive it
You may need to provide extra documentation in some cases.
Tips for Parents
- Budget wisely: Use Child Benefit for essentials or save a portion
- Open a Junior ISA: Build long-term savings for your child’s future
- Pension planning: Reduce taxable income to avoid the HICBC
- Use benefit calculators: Check for other entitlements on Turn2Us or Entitledto
- Ask for help: Local advisors or Citizens Advice can guide you through complex claims
FAQs
What is the new UK Child Benefit rate?
£26.05/week for first child, £17.25/week for each additional child.
What is Ireland’s €420 Baby Bonus?
It includes a €280 New Baby Grant and €140 Child Benefit for new births.
Can I backdate a UK Child Benefit claim?
Yes, up to 3 months from the date you apply.
Do high earners lose Child Benefit?
They may need to repay some via the High Income Child Benefit Charge.
How do I apply for Child Benefit?
Use the HMRC app, online portal, or CH2 paper form with birth certificate.
