Executive Summary
Published 29 May 2025
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HMRC commissioned BMG to undertake research on the awareness, understanding, and barriers to claiming Child Benefit among those who do not claim it (non-claimants) and those who waited at least 3 months after the birth of their child before claiming (delayed claimants). The themes from this research are detailed below:
High awareness but limited understanding: there is a high level of awareness about Child Benefit among non-claimants, but fewer feel that they understand it well. This indicates a gap between awareness and comprehension. Indeed, respondents’ understanding is most likely lower than they state, as there is significant confusion amongst parents when asking for their understanding of eligibility criteria, what is provided as part of Child Benefit or other childcare support, how many children can be claimed for, and how the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC) is applied.
Sources of information and advice: parents generally seek advice on childcare from healthcare professionals or their friends and family, often becoming aware of Child Benefit through these sources. While sources such as government websites are also commonly used, this is often to expand parents understanding rather than the initial point of awareness. Those born outside the UK are more likely to initially turn to public sources than personal networks.
Eligibility misconceptions and barriers: a major barrier for non-claimants is the perception of eligibility, with only one in ten of non-claimants believing they are eligible for Child Benefit. Confusion and misinformation about what constitutes eligibility, often equated with not receiving the financial incentives, is the most significant barrier to claiming. Other barriers are created by fears of penalisation due to income fluctuations and concerns about the perceived social stigma associated with claiming benefits.
Impact of the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC): awareness of HICBC is high among non-claimants, especially among those liable for the charge. The charge is often associated with eligibility misconceptions, and the financial disincentive for households is a notable reason for not claiming Child Benefit. Poor understanding of how the charge is applied has created fears among both those liable and not liable to it.
Application process and support needs: the application process is perceived by non-claimants as lengthy and confusing, exacerbating the challenges for parents who are time poor as a result of looking after their newborn. However, it is worth noting that delayed claimants who have been through the process dispel many of these perceptions. Despite this, there is a demand from both non-claimant and delayed claimant parents for clearer messaging, streamlined application processes across all government childcare support, and more accessible information. Support mechanisms, such as real-person consultations, reminders, and simplification of government forms are suggested to improve confidence and reduce fears, especially among those less digitally or financially literate.