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Child Tax Credit and Universal Credit: Children

Asked by Ben ColemanLabourDepartment for Work and PensionsTabled Answered 30 March 2026UIN 123101

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that all eligible claimants are made aware of the forthcoming proposed removal of the two-child limit on Child Tax Credit and Universal Credit.

Answered by Sir Stephen Timms

The Government has announced that the two child‑ limit in Child Tax Credit and Universal Credit will be removed from 6th April 2026.

For Universal Credit, the Department is contacting customers who are expected to benefit from the removal of the two child limit directly, ensuring that families are aware of the additional support they will be entitled to. Eligible customers will automatically receive the increased child element from April 2026, provided the number of children in their household is correctly recorded on their Universal Credit claim.

The Universal Credit service will be updated to reflect the policy change, and agents will receive updated guidance and communications to support them in responding to claimant enquiries. Customers can also receive additional support through Jobcentres, by telephoning the Universal Credit helpline, or via their online Universal Credit account.

HM Revenue and Customs is responsible for managing any remaining Child Tax Credit claims and will lead on communications with their affected customers.

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