Budgeting for children

This content applies to England only.

Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. Get advice relating to Scotland

Having a child is a big life change – and one that requires budgeting for as both your income and outgoings change. Have a look at our ideas for reducing some of the costs of having children, and increasing your income.

New addition to the family

If you're having a baby or adopting a child, check if you are entitled to statutory maternity pay or maternity allowance.
Work out the impact of a baby on your budget with Money Advice Service’s Budgeting for baby calculator.

Benefits to help with children’s costs

On benefits? – make sure you claim for free school meals, school uniform grants and help with school trips – these are often part of your overall benefit entitlement. Contact your local council to claim.
School always asking you for money? Find out what they can and can’t charge for.
Most families with children are entitled to Child Benefit.
Use a benefits checker from Turn2us to work out your entitlement to benefits.

Tax credits and childcare vouchers

Working but struggling? – see if you can claim tax credits to provide help with childcare costs and extra income. You may be eligible if you or your partner are working over 16 hours a week.
If you are already claiming tax credits and your income has gone down, be sure to tell HMRC about your change in circumstances – you may be due some more money.
Find out if your employer offers childcare vouchers.
Use HMRC's calculator to work out if you will be better off with childcare vouchers or tax credits.
Find out about childcare, nursery and local education provision from your local family information service.

Get ideas online

Check out the Money Advice Service's Parent’s Guide to Money.
The Daycare Trust has information for working families on childcare and free nursery places.
Family lives offers tips and advice on budgeting for kids – keeping your food bills down and keeping them occupied on a budget.
Link up with other parents – charities like the National Childbirth Trust often run sales of baby clothes and equipment.