Child Benefit update and childcare support
Child Benefit customers can now view and update their bank account details quickly and easily using the HMRC app or report changes that affect their Child Benefit on GOV.UK, to make sure their payments go to the right place.
In the app, customers can go to the Child Benefit section and select ‘Change bank details’.
Using the new online service, customers’ bank details can be viewed and updated instantly with no need to contact HMRC. Payments that are due within 3 days will be credited to the customer’s previously listed account.
There are two steps to using the HMRC app for the first time. Once set up, customers can log in in future using a pin, fingerprint or with facial recognition - depending on what their device supports:
- Download the free HMRC app from the App Store for iOS or the Google Play Store for Android
- Follow the instructions on screen to complete the app settings – customers will be asked to sign into their account and can sign in or register on the same sign in page if they have not used HMRC’s online services before.
The Government is also expanding childcare support to all working families in the UK for children under 17 years old. It is part of the biggest ever investment in childcare in England and will be fully in place by September 2025. The expansion is to help working parents juggle their job with being a parent.
Find out about the available options by going to Childcare Choices.
Working parents claiming Universal Credit or about to start work can visit Universal Credit and childcare or contact their work coach for more information.
Department for Work and Pensions (including Jobcentre Plus) arrangements over Christmas and New Year
Our office opening hours are different over Christmas and New Year.
To make sure people receive their payments on a day when our offices are open, arrangements have been made to make some payments early.
Third 2023/24 Cost of Living Payment dates announced
On 13 December, the Government announced that millions of UK households will shortly get a Cost of Living Payment of £299. This payment will be made to eligible claimants on means tested benefits between Tuesday 6 February and Thursday 22 February.
This is the third of three payments over the financial year totalling up to £900.
Customers will receive the payments automatically. They do not need to contact DWP or do anything to receive the payment.
If a household becomes retrospectively entitled to a Cost of Living Payment or someone believes they are entitled but do not receive one, they can report this on GOV.UK from the 23 February.
Read more information about the Cost of Living Payments on GOV.UK.
We have produced a Cost Of Living Payment video, which can be shared on social channels.
Read the full press release.