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How to understand family benefits

Every parent is entitled to financial help from the government. Here's what you may be entitled to*

A father and daughter putting money in a piggy bank

Published 06 October 2008

Child Benefit
This money is paid out for every child regardless of your family income, and whether you’re working or are on benefits. Once your child is 16, you could still receive money if he or she is in full-time further education or training.
Child Trust Fund
Saving for the future is often hard, but as soon as you claim Child Benefit you will automatically be sent a voucher for at least £250 to start your Child Trust Fund. The government adds at least another £250 when your child is seven.
Child Tax Credit
This is a benefit for families with children on an income of under £58,000 a year (£66,000 if your child is under one).
Working Tax Credit
You could be eligible for at least £1,730 if you’re over 16, looking after a child and working more than 16 hours a week. You may also be able to claim back up to 80 per cent of your childcare costs.
Childcare Affordability Programme (CAP)
Londoners who get Tax Credits may be eligible for the CAP, which offers cheaper daycare places for working parents.
Child Maintenance Premium (CMP)
You may be able to claim up to £10 CMP per week when child maintenance is paid for your children, rising to £20 at the end of 2008.
New Deal for Lone Parents
This new programme may help pay for travel and childcare while you’re looking for work or completing an approved training scheme.

Find out more

Child Benefit information
www.hmrc.gov.uk/childbenefit
0845 302 1444 (Northern Ireland: 0845 603 2000)
Child Support Agency
www.csa.gov.uk
08457 133 133
Child Trust Fund
www.childtrustfund.gov.uk
0845 302 1470
Citizens Advice Bureau (for advice on benefits) www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Jobcentre Plus (for New Deal details)
www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk
0845 606 2626
Public services website (for advice on family benefits)
www.direct.gov.uk

Words: Jane Kemp. Pictures: Getty

*All details are correct at time of publication but may be subject to change at short notice. For the latest information on family benefits please contact one of the agencies listed.

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