Child Benefit is worth about £1,406 per year for your first child and £930 for each additional child in 2026/27 (£27.05 and £17.90 a week). But if you earn well, you may have to pay some back through the high income charge.
The Threshold
The high income charge starts when your adjusted net income exceeds £60,000. It gradually reduces your Child Benefit until it completely cuts out at £80,000.
- Charge starts at £60,000
- Fully removed at £80,000
- Gradual reduction between thresholds
How It's Calculated
The charge is 1% of your Child Benefit for every £200 of income above £60,000. So if you earn £70,000, you'd pay back 50% of your Child Benefit. The charge is paid through your tax code or self-assessment.
What counts as adjusted net income?
This includes all taxable income minus gross pension contributions and gift aid donations. Your employer's pension contributions don't count against you.
Should You Claim?
Even if you earn over £80,000 and lose all Child Benefit, it may still be worth claiming because it protects your National Insurance record and counts towards your state pension.
- child benefit
- high income charge
- tax
- family
- UK