Child Benefit and High Income Charge calculator
How much Child Benefit you get, and how much of it the High Income Child Benefit Charge takes back once either parent earns over £60,000.
How this is calculated
Child Benefit is a weekly amount for the eldest or only child and a lower amount for each other child, paid for 52 weeks.
The High Income Child Benefit Charge takes back 1% of the benefit for every £200 of adjusted net income above £60,000, so the whole amount is gone at £80,000.
Only the higher earner in a couple pays the charge, based on their own income. Household income does not count.
The charge is paid through Self Assessment, or through PAYE if HMRC adjusts your tax code.
Rates used · 2026/27
| Eldest or only child | £27.05 a week |
| Each other child | £17.90 a week |
| Charge starts | £60,000 of adjusted net income |
| Charge is 100% | £80,000 and above |
Last checked July 2026. Source: HMRC and gov.uk.
Worked example
With two children Child Benefit is £44.95 a week, or £2,337 a year. On £70,000 of adjusted net income the charge takes back 50%, so you keep £1,169. At £80,000 or more it would all be taken back.
Common questions
Should I still claim if I earn over £80,000?
Yes, and then opt out of the payments. The claim gives a parent who is not working National Insurance credits towards their State Pension, and gets your child a National Insurance number automatically.
How can I reduce the charge?
By lowering adjusted net income: paying more into a pension, especially through salary sacrifice, or making Gift Aid donations.
Is it based on household income?
No. It looks at each parent's own adjusted net income, and only the higher earner pays it.
When is Child Benefit paid?
Usually every four weeks, into your bank account.