Family tax2 min read · Updated 21 October 2026
The High Income Child Benefit Charge, explained
When Child Benefit is clawed back, how much you lose at each income level, and how pension payments can cut the charge.
Example: £2,500 Child Benefit a year
| Income £60,000 or less | £0 charge |
| Income £70,000 | £1,250 charge |
| Income £80,000 or more | £2,500 charge, all of it |
Ways to lower it
Paying into a pension or giving to charity through Gift Aid lowers adjusted net income. You can still claim Child Benefit and pay the charge through Self Assessment, or claim and opt out of payments.
Common questions
When does the charge start?
When the higher earner has adjusted net income over £60,000.
At what income is all of it lost?
At £80,000 or more.