HMRC urges households to claim backdated £897 payments | Personal Finance | Finance

HMRC has issued a crucial announcement regarding backdated payments. British families could receive as much as £897 per year for each new application submitted, according to the Labour government’s tax authority.

Taking to Twitter, now X, HMRC said: “You can claim Child Benefit for every child you’re responsible for, regardless of how many children you have. Child Benefit can be backdated for up to 3 months from the date you make the claim.”

The department warned: “You cannot recover payments from before that period. The quickest and easiest way for parents and carers to claim, view and manage Child Benefit payments is by downloading the free and secure HMRC app.”

The tax office added: “Already claiming Child Benefit for your first child? Claim online to get up to £897 a year for each additional child you have.”

Child Benefit represents a government support scheme aimed at assisting with child-rearing expenses, reports Birmingham Live.

The allowance is typically provided to anyone caring for a youngster aged under 16 or under 20 if they continue in recognised education or training.

Whilst there’s no restriction on the number of children eligible for claims, only one parent or carer can receive Child Benefit for each child.

Presently, two Child Benefit payment rates exist. For a first or sole child, the weekly amount stands at £26.05, whilst for subsequent children, the weekly benefit totals £17.25.

All Child Benefit payments contribute towards the benefit cap. Those impacted by this restriction will continue to receive their complete Child Benefit sum, though other benefits may face reductions.

Meanwhile, HMRC has warned that if you or your partner’s income exceeds a certain limit, you may not receive any additional funds from the Child Benefit.

This is primarily due to the potential requirement to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge.