2025 UK Child Tax Credit: Payment Dates, Amounts & Who’s Eligible

The UK Child Tax Credit, a government-provided financial support for low-income families with children, will officially conclude on 5 April 2025. After this date, all payments under the scheme will cease. This move marks a full transition toward Universal Credit and Pension Credit systems, which are now the primary support mechanisms for qualifying families and individuals.

Families currently receiving Child Tax Credit should begin preparing for the change to avoid disruption in financial assistance. Notifications are being sent to eligible households to guide them on switching to Universal Credit or other applicable benefits.

What is Replacing Child Tax Credit?

As part of the UK Government’s broader welfare reform, the Child Tax Credit is being phased out in favor of:

• Universal Credit: Designed for working-age individuals and families, combining six benefits into a single monthly payment.
• Pension Credit: For couples or individuals who have reached State Pension age, providing extra income for retirement-aged households.

Child Tax Credit 2025 Details

Detail	Information
Scheme Name	Child Tax Credit 2025
End Date	5 April 2025
Replacement	Universal Credit or Pension Credit
Payment Mode	Direct deposit to bank account
Eligibility	Low-income families with children
Official Website	gov.uk

Who is Eligible for Child Tax Credit Until April 2025?

Until the termination date, eligibility is strictly limited to:

• Individuals already receiving Working Tax Credit.
• Families responsible for at least one child under 16, or under 20 if in approved education or training.
• Households with a low income as defined by HMRC.

Important Note: New applications for Child Tax Credit are no longer accepted. If you’re not already receiving it, you must apply for Universal Credit instead.

Updated Payment Amounts for 2025

While new claims are closed, existing claimants will continue to receive support until the end date. Here’s what the payment structure looks like for 2025:

• Children born before 6 April 2017: Up to £3,455 per year per child.
• Children born after 6 April 2017: Limited to the first two children, with exceptions for multiple births or special circumstances.
• Multiple births: Additional allowances may apply for twins, triplets, or similar cases.

Child Benefit Rates (From April 2025 Onward)

Although Child Tax Credit is ending, Child Benefit continues with the following updated weekly rates:

• £26.05 for the eldest or only child.
• £17.25 for each additional child.

Example Calculation:

Child	Weekly Rate
Eldest Child	£26.05
Second Child	£17.25
Third Child	£17.25
Total Weekly	£60.55

Payment Schedule and Process

All payments are transferred directly to the claimant’s bank account. You can choose to receive payments weekly or every four weeks.

If a payment date falls on a UK bank holiday, you may receive your payment early. Check the official payment calendar for accurate scheduling.

Common Payment Issues and How to Resolve Them

If you notice a missed or incorrect payment, take the following steps:

1. Contact the Child Benefit Helpline immediately.
2. Keep a detailed record of all previous payment dates and amounts.
3. Check that your bank details are up to date with HMRC.

Eligibility for Universal Credit in 2025

When transitioning from Child Tax Credit, you may qualify for Universal Credit if:

• Your child is under 16, or under 20 and in full-time education or training.
• The child resides in the UK.
• Only one person is claiming per child.

Special Circumstances:

• Foster parents and guardians may qualify depending on custody and legal arrangements.
• If you’re receiving other benefits, Universal Credit may still be available, but your total benefit income could be adjusted.

Alternatives to Child Tax Credit

Once Child Tax Credit ends, you should explore the following support options:

• Universal Credit: Broad financial support for housing, children, and living costs.
• Pension Credit: If both you and your partner are past State Pension age.

FAQs

Q1. When will the last Child Tax Credit payment be made?

A1. The final payment will be issued on or before 5 April 2025.

Q2. Can I still apply for Child Tax Credit in 2025?

A2. No, new applications are closed. Only existing claimants can continue receiving it until April 2025.

Q3. What happens if I miss the transition to Universal Credit?

A3. You risk losing financial support. It is crucial to act promptly if notified.

Q4. Will Child Benefit continue after April 2025?

A4. Yes, Child Benefit remains active and is not affected by the end of Child Tax Credit.

Q5. Is the payment amount for multiple children capped?

A5. Yes, payments are typically limited to the first two children unless exceptions apply (e.g., multiple births).

Click here to learn more