Many families across the UK continue to search for information about how to claim Child Tax Credit and whether they are still entitled to support in 2026.
The Child Tax Credit system has changed significantly in recent years due to the introduction of Universal Credit. As a result, many people are unsure whether Child Tax Credit still exists, who can receive it, and what alternatives may be available.
This guide explains everything you need to know about how to claim Child Tax Credit in 2026, including eligibility rules, payment amounts, application processes, common mistakes, and other financial support available for families.
Whether you are a parent, guardian or carer, this article provides clear and trustworthy information to help you understand your options.
Most people can no longer make a new claim for Child Tax Credit in 2026.
Child Tax Credit has largely been replaced by Universal Credit. However, if you already receive Child Tax Credit and have not moved to Universal Credit, you may continue receiving payments until your circumstances change or you are migrated to Universal Credit.
If you need to make a new claim for support with children, you will usually need to apply for Universal Credit instead.
Child Tax Credit is a benefit designed to help families with the costs of raising children.
It was originally introduced to provide financial support to low income households with dependent children.
The benefit is administered by HM Revenue and Customs and may include additional support for:
Although Child Tax Credit still exists for some existing claimants, the UK Government has replaced it for most new applicants with Universal Credit.
| Purpose | Description |
|---|---|
| Child support | Helps cover the costs of raising children |
| Disability support | Additional amounts for disabled children |
| Family income support | Assists lower income households |
| Financial stability | Helps reduce child poverty |
For most people, the answer is no.
New Child Tax Credit claims are generally closed.
You may still receive Child Tax Credit if:
Most new applicants must instead apply for Universal Credit.
Eligibility depends on whether you already have an existing claim.
You may continue receiving Child Tax Credit if:
A child is generally considered dependent if they are:
| Child Status | Usually Eligible |
|---|---|
| Under 16 | Yes |
| 16 to 19 in approved education | Yes |
| Adult child not in education | No |
Yes.
Income is one of the most important factors affecting entitlement.
The amount awarded reduces as household income increases.
Factors considered include:
Generally:
| Household Income | Likely Outcome |
|---|---|
| Lower income | Higher support |
| Moderate income | Reduced support |
| Higher income | Little or no entitlement |
The exact amount depends on your personal circumstances.
Unlike Universal Credit, there is no specific savings limit for Child Tax Credit.
However, income generated from savings may affect entitlement.
Examples include:
This is one area where Child Tax Credit differs significantly from Universal Credit.
| Benefit | Savings Limit |
|---|---|
| Child Tax Credit | No fixed limit |
| Universal Credit | £16,000 limit applies in most cases |
The amount varies depending on:
Existing claimants may continue receiving annual awards made up of several elements.
Typical components can include:
| Element | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Family element | General family support |
| Child element | Support for each child |
| Disability element | Additional support |
| Severe disability element | Enhanced support |
Because rates can change annually, claimants should always check the latest HMRC award notice.
Most people cannot submit a new Child Tax Credit application.
Instead, they must apply for Universal Credit.
You should:
You will usually need to:
Whether dealing with Child Tax Credit or Universal Credit, you may need:
Many claimants experience delays or overpayments because of avoidable mistakes.
You should report:
Always read correspondence from:
Errors can result in:
Late responses can affect entitlement.
Sarah already receives Child Tax Credit for two children.
Her circumstances remain unchanged in 2026.
Outcome:
She may continue receiving Child Tax Credit until moved to Universal Credit.
Mark becomes a parent for the first time in 2026.
Outcome:
He cannot make a new Child Tax Credit claim and will usually need to apply for Universal Credit.
A family receiving Child Tax Credit experiences a major change in circumstances.
Outcome:
Their tax credit award may end and they may need to claim Universal Credit.
| Situation | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Existing claimant | May continue receiving Child Tax Credit |
| New parent | Usually claim Universal Credit |
| Circumstances change | May trigger Universal Credit claim |
| Migration notice received | Move to Universal Credit |
Generally no. Most new claims must be made through Universal Credit.
The benefit is gradually being replaced by Universal Credit.
In most cases, no.
Existing awards may include multiple children depending on circumstances.
Yes. Earnings can affect entitlement.
Yes. Household income is normally assessed.
Existing claimants should follow HMRC instructions regarding renewals.
You must report the change promptly.
Only if they are responsible for the child and meet eligibility rules.
Yes. Child Benefit is separate from Child Tax Credit.
Your entitlement may reduce.
The Government is gradually moving remaining claimants to Universal Credit through managed migration.
Many families qualify for additional support.
May provide support for:
Available to many parents responsible for children.
Provides support for eligible families with young children.
Available to qualifying households.
Available through some local councils.
May reduce council tax bills.
Provides support for children with disabilities.
May apply when a child reaches qualifying age.
Available to some people caring for disabled individuals.
Always use official Government resources when making decisions about benefits.
Useful sources include:
This article has been reviewed against current UK Government guidance relating to Child Tax Credit, Universal Credit, tax credits migration and family benefits.
Benefit rules can change and individual circumstances vary. Always check the latest official guidance before making a claim or relying on benefit information.
Understanding how to claim Child Tax Credit in 2026 can be confusing because the benefit system has changed significantly over recent years.
For most people, new Child Tax Credit claims are no longer available and support for children is now provided through Universal Credit. However, many existing claimants continue to receive Child Tax Credit and should ensure they keep their details up to date and respond promptly to any correspondence from HMRC.
If you are unsure about your entitlement, it is worth checking all available benefits as many families qualify for additional support beyond Child Tax Credit alone.
Benefits Advice UK provides free information to help people better understand the UK benefits system. Always check the latest Government guidance before making financial decisions.
Information on this site is based on official UK guidance.
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