The benefits system provides meaningful financial support to millions of UK families. Yet billions of pounds in entitlements go unclaimed every year simply because people do not know what they are eligible for.
Child Benefit
Child Benefit is worth £25.60 per week for the eldest child and £16.95 for each additional child in 2026/27. If either parent earns over £60,000, a High Income Child Benefit Charge applies. Even then, claiming protects your National Insurance record.
Universal Credit
Universal Credit combines support for housing, children, childcare, and living costs into a single monthly payment. The amount depends on your household income, savings, rent, and circumstances. Use the Turn2Us benefits calculator for a personalised estimate.
Free childcare
Working parents of children aged 9 months and over are entitled to 15 hours of free childcare per week. Eligible working parents of 3-4 year olds get 30 free hours. Each parent must earn at least the equivalent of 16 hours at National Living Wage.
Tax-Free Childcare
For every £8 you pay into a Tax-Free Childcare account, the government adds £2 — up to £500 per child per quarter. This cannot be combined with 30 hours free childcare on the same costs.
Bottom line
If you have children, check your entitlements regularly using the gov.uk benefits calculator or Turn2Us. Family circumstances change, and so do benefit rules. Unclaimed entitlements represent real money.