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What is a CH2 Form?

Updated: Feb 18, 2023

CH2 Form, is a formal declaration made by a child's parent or prospective adoptive parent to apply for child support. If you live in the UK, you can complete the application for each child newly born in the UK. Note that you can only use this application if you wish to claim benefits for one or two children in your care and if the children are under 16 or 20 when they are in school. The document provides guidance for parents who need to manage their income and potential tax burdens and secure their state pension.



What is a CH2 Form?

The HMRC CH2 form is a form used to claim child benefit, a payment made by the UK government to help parents and guardians with the cost of raising children. Child benefit is paid to eligible parents or guardians of children under the age of 16, or under the age of 20 if the child is in approved education or training.


Alternative Names:

● Child Benefit Form;

● Child Benefit Claim Form;

● Child Benefits Application Form.


Who Is Eligible To Use The HMRC CH2 Form?

You may be eligible to use the HMRC CH2 form if you are responsible for a child under the age of 16, or under the age of 20 if the child is in approved education or training. You can claim child benefits if you are the child's parent or guardian, or if you are responsible for the child's care.


It is important to note that child benefit is means-tested, which means that your eligibility for the benefit will depend on your income. If you or your partner earn over £50,000 per year, you may be subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge, which reduces the amount of child benefit you are entitled to.


When Should I Fill out a CH2 Form?

You can fill out a CH2 form once your child's birth has been registered or if they are living with you.

Coronavirus and Birth Certificate

This applies as long as all registry offices are closed during the Corona crisis. Parents giving birth for the first time must fill out the CH2 form.


Note: It is important to add a note that you cannot register the birth.


If you have already applied for child support and need to update the application for a child, you can fill out form CH2. Or add details by calling the Child Benefit Helpline on 0300 200 3100.


How to Complete the HMRC CH2 Form

The HMRC CH2 form can be completed online using the HMRC website or by downloading a paper form and completing it manually. In this section, we will walk you through the process of completing the online version of the form.


Step 1: Gather your information


Before you start filling in the form, you will need to gather some information about yourself and your child. This may include:


Your National Insurance number

Your child's date of birth

Your child's full name

Your child's National Insurance number (if they have one)

Your bank details (if you want to receive payments directly into your bank account)


Step 2: Log in to the HMRC website


To start the claims process, you will need to log in to the HMRC website. If you do not already have an account, you will need to create one.


Step 3: Select the child benefit option


Once you are logged in, select the child benefit option from the list of available services.


Step 4: Fill in the form


The online form will prompt you to enter your personal details, your child's details, and your bank details (if you want to receive payments directly into your bank account). You will also be asked to provide details about any other children you are responsible for, as well as any other benefits you receive.


Step 5: Submit the form


Once you have filled in all the required information, submit the form. You will then receive a confirmation message that your claim has been submitted.


If you prefer to complete the form manually, you can download a copy of the form from the HMRC website and fill it in by hand. You can then submit the form by post to the address provided on the form.




Where to Send a Child Benefit Form?

Once the document is ready, mail an envelope with all supporting documentation to the Child Benefit Office, Washington, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE88 1ZD. For faster processing of your request, you must attach an address label. An online child benefit form is available if you prefer to prepare it this way - fill in the electronic document, print it out, and submit it to HM Revenue & Customs.

What Evidence Should I Send with a CH2 Form?

You do not need to enclose your child's birth certificate with the application. However, you must submit a certificate of adoption if you have adopted your child.

What Happens Next?

You can receive the family allowance until August 31 after your child has reached the age of 16, or until the age of 20 if it is still at school. When your child turns 16, HMRC will send you a letter asking if your child would like to continue their education. You must respond to this letter to continue receiving family allowances. If your family situation changes, you must let HMRC know, for example, if your child moves house or if you separate.


If you or your partner earn more than £50,000 a year, you may have to pay more tax. Visit GOV.UK for more information on duties and how to pay them. If your application is rejected and you do not agree with HMRC's decision, you can ask them to reconsider; this is referred to as a "mandatory review".


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