Parents of teenagers across Renfrewshire and the rest of Scotland are being reminded to extend their Child Benefit claim before 31st August if their child is continuing in approved education or training.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) says parents of 16 to 19-year-olds must confirm whether their child will continue in non-advanced approved education or training. Payments will stop automatically if they do not respond by the deadline.
The reminder follows the release of National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher results on 4th August, with many young people now confirming their education or training plans for the autumn.
Parents can extend their claim using the HMRC app or GOV.UK. Those who received a letter from HMRC can also scan the QR code included in the letter to access the online service.
More than 372,000 parents have already extended their Child Benefit payments digitally ahead of the deadline.
Child Benefit is worth up to £1,406.60 a year for the eldest or only child and up to £930.80 a year for each additional child.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said: “Exam results season is a big moment for teenagers deciding their next steps, and it’s the perfect time for parents to confirm those plans with us.
“Child Benefit is a vital source of support for many families and we don’t want anyone to miss out. It only takes a few minutes using the HMRC app or GOV.UK, so make sure you’re receiving the payments you’re entitled to.”
Child Benefit can continue for children in full-time, non-advanced education. This includes Scottish Highers, A levels, T levels, NVQs up to level 3 and certain approved training schemes.
Parents only need to take action if their teenager is starting a new course or qualifying training in September. Those already partway through a course which has previously been reported to HMRC do not need to contact the department.
Parents must tell HMRC if their child’s plans change, including if they leave education or start a paid apprenticeship, to avoid being overpaid.
HMRC has written to around 1.5 million parents this year reminding them to extend their claim before the deadline. Parents who cannot use the HMRC app or GOV.UK can extend their claim by post or phone using the details in their letter.