Child benefit claim over threshold

[spydie]

I have just opted out of receiving CB as gross income has increased to over the 60k threshold, after pension deductions etc.

But now I'm hearing I should continue to receive it as it affects NI contributions? I am working full time, only time off work was maternity so full pay then SMP. My DD is still recorded with them and I can opt to receive payments again at any time, but now worried I shouldn't have stopped them. Can anyone advise?

You only need it for NI purposes if you're not otherwise paying NI. You are so I wouldn't worry, unless you foresee a period of unemployment in the future?

If you’re working full time you’ll be paying NI anyway so you’ll be covered. I’m pretty sure receiving CB only counts towards NI if you’re not working, because it lets the government know you were off looking after your kids as opposed to doing nothing. I think the idea is you should apply for it even if you decide not to receive it, so they’re aware, and whether you actually receive it or not doesn’t matter - over a certain amount you won’t actually be receiving any anyway, hence you’ve said no thanks.

Which reminds me - I need to apply for mine!

This explains it - no need to receive it as long as you’ve registered.

www.gov.uk/child-benefit

Opting out of payment won't affect the ni records as you presumably have registered dc details previously.

I don’t think it matters. I claimed for a few months so I was registered then asked them to stop the payments so I don’t have to pay it all back in tax.

Thanks for confirming, Ladies.

No not expecting any periods of unemployment, fingers crossed!!

You can claim it but opt out of the payment