Newer version available

There is a newer version of this publication available:
Benefits for Students in Scotland Handbook 2025/26

Chapter 3: Child benefit

• 1. What is child benefit
• 2. Who is eligible
• Who counts as a child
• Who counts as a qualifying young person
• The extension period
• The terminal date
• 3. Amount of benefit
• 4. Claiming child benefit
• Getting paid
• 5. Challenging a decision
• 6. Other benefits and tax credits

Basic facts

•Child benefit is paid to people who are responsible for a child or a ‘qualifying young person’.
•Both full-time and part-time students can claim child benefit.
•If you are under 20, someone else may be able to claim child benefit for you if you are studying.
•Child benefit is not means tested.