Child benefit - have I messed up?

[Sangeetafangeeta]

When my daughter was born I claimed child benefit for a couple of years. By the time my son came along, the rules had changed and my husband earned too much for us to qualify. Consequently, I didn’t bother claiming CB for my son, as I didn’t see the point only for us to pay it back again at the end of the year (it’s been a while - I think that was the deal!)

Have I messed up? Is this going to cause him problems with the system? If so, what can I do?

i can’t be the only person this this situation?

thank you

I think you register for CB as it gives you credits towards the state pension.

If you're not claiming it won't cause your DH any problems, because he won't have anything to pay back, although you should check you haven't become eligible because the amount above where you need to start paying back has increased.

The other consideration is whether you need the NI stamp - if you're not working or only earning a very small amount, you should claim (but either opt not to take the money, or your DH should do a tax return) as this will contribute towards your state pension. But if you're working, or very likely to meet the required 35 years contributions by the time you reach state retirement age, this isn't necessary.

Well the NI stamp can be used by you or transferred to GParents if they have done childcare for him whilst under 12, if that is no use to you then should be a problem.

Thank you so much for this.

I have worked PT since my children were born, a mix of self-employment and PAYE, and I don’t think I have gaps in my NI contributions. I earn around £20k per year. My husband’s wage has increased nicely and steadily since we became ineligible. It seems ridiculous for him to fill in a tax return form so I would always opt not to claim. If I retire at 57 I would have earned for 35 years.

Is not being in ‘the system’ likely to cause my son any issues?

My parents have looked after all four of the grandchildren at various points. They could claim for this?

I've never claimed for either of mine and doesn't appear to have caused any issues so far.

Thank you. Did you register them and not claim, or not bother registering at all?

I've never claimed. The only "issue" I have heard about is having to apply for an NI number when the child turns 16 rather than it being sent automatically.

The best thing to do is to register but then opt out of receiving the money (if your husband is over the threshold) this ensures that you won't get any accidental gaps in your contributions. You can check your contributions online.

@Sangeetafangeeta yes, if you don't need the credits and the grandparents don't have a full years worth you can transfer the NI credits to them if they have cared for a child under 12, it is a very simple form to fill in. They won't get money for it now but will help them qualify for state pension later MSE explanation

This.
You can still register if you are over the income limit ,and just tick the box that you don't want to claim any money .When your DC reach 16 years old they will automatically be sent a NI number.

We've never claimed. We've both always worked so no gaps to worry about (the same for grandparents), and filling in a form to get a NI number doesn't seem onerous.

That’s helpful. Thank you