Half a million parents didn’t receive their child benefit payment today – find out when it’ll be paid

A fault has resulted in 500,000 families not receiving their child benefit payments today (3 June) as expected.

HMRC confirmed the problem earlier today when worried parents took to social media to complain. It has since issued an apology to those affected saying the issue has now been fixed.

HMRC confirmed around 30% of all child benefit claimants didn’t receive their payment today.

A spokesperson for HMRC said: “We are very sorry that some customers did not receive their scheduled child benefit payments as expected and we understand the concern and difficulty this may have caused.

“We have now fixed the problem and are putting measures in place to prevent this from happening again.”

HMRC has not confirmed what the problem was or why it occurred.

They have asked those affected not to call them. But have confirmed anyone with a missing payment will get their money on Wednesday morning (5 June).

This has angered hundreds of parents on social media, with one taking to X to say: “Are you going to tell us what the problem was? Why can’t we receive it tomorrow along with all the others getting theirs?”

While another added: “What about the kiddies going hungry till Wednesday? Or have no electricity to heat water for their baths? In this current cost of living crisis people are relying on these what may seem small to others payments just to get by.”

Some were also panicking that because the payments aren’t being made until Wednesday, parents waking up tomorrow might also find their money missing.

One said: “Can you confirm Tuesday folk get their money on the correct day?”

What should I do if I’m missing a payment?

The HMRC has urged parents not to contact them.

If the missing payment has resulted in a direct financial loss, parents have been asked to complete this form for redress Make a complaint about HMRC - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

What is child benefit?

Child benefit is paid to parents - or people who have the responsibility of bringing up a child - to help with the cost. It's usually paid every 4 weeks. If you're eligible, you'll get £25.60 a week for your first child and £16.95 a week for any child after that.

Who is eligible for child benefit?

You can claim child benefit if you can’t afford to support yourself and your family financially. It is available to anyone bringing up a child who is:

• Under 16
• Under 20 if they stay in full-time education or training

Only one person can claim child benefit for a child, but there is no limit on how many children you can for.