Child Benefit & HICBC Calculator
Calculate your Child Benefit and check if the High Income Child Benefit Charge reduces what you keep. See how pension contributions can help.
Your details
Used to calculate the High Income Charge. Leave blank if under £60,000.
Annual Child Benefit
£1,355
£26.05/week · 1 child
Quick reference
How Child Benefit and HICBC work
Child Benefit is a universal payment from HMRC for each child under 16 (or under 20 if in education/training). There is no income test to claim it — but if the higher-earning parent has income above £60,000, the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC) claws some or all of it back through Self Assessment.
HICBC calculation
The charge equals 1% of the full Child Benefit for every £200 the higher earner's adjusted net income exceeds £60,000.
- At £60,000: no charge — you keep 100%
- At £70,000: 50% charge — you keep half
- At £80,000+: 100% charge — benefit fully clawed back
Even if HICBC eliminates the cash benefit, still claim — it provides NI credits for the non-working parent towards State Pension. You can opt out of receiving the payment but maintain the claim.
Source: GOV.UK HICBC
Child Benefit FAQs
What is the High Income Child Benefit Charge?
The HICBC is a tax charge that claws back Child Benefit if either parent earns over £60,000 per year (from 2024/25 onwards — it was £50,000 before). You lose 1% of your Child Benefit for every £200 above £60,000. At £80,000 or above, the charge equals 100% of the benefit.
How much is Child Benefit in 2026/27?
For 2026/27, Child Benefit is £26.05 per week for the eldest/only child and £17.25 per week for each additional child. That's £1,354.60/year for one child, £2,251.60/year for two, and £3,148.60/year for three.
Should I still claim Child Benefit if I earn over £80,000?
Yes — it's usually still worth claiming even if the charge wipes out the cash benefit. Claiming ensures the lower-earning parent gets National Insurance credits towards their State Pension (especially if they're not working). You can opt out of payments but still register the claim.
Which partner's income counts for HICBC?
The charge applies to whichever parent has the higher income — regardless of who claims the benefit. If both parents earn over £60,000, only the higher earner pays the charge.
Can I reduce my income to avoid HICBC?
Yes. Pension contributions via salary sacrifice or personal pension contributions reduce your 'adjusted net income' — potentially bringing you below the £60,000 threshold. This is a common and legitimate tax planning strategy.
Do I need to file a Self Assessment for HICBC?
Yes. If you or your partner earn over £60,000 and claim Child Benefit, the higher earner must register for Self Assessment and declare the charge. Failure to do so can result in penalties.