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Are you struggling to manage the costs of raising children in Scotland? You’re not alone, and fortunately, help is available. The Scottish Child Payment is a weekly financial support offered by Social Security Scotland to assist low-income families with the rising costs of childcare.
It’s part of a wider system of benefits designed to ensure every child in Scotland has the best possible start in life. But who qualifies for it? How much can you get? And what’s the application process like in 2025?
Whether you’re already receiving some benefits or just beginning to explore your options, understanding this support could make a significant difference to your household.
In this blog, you’ll learn everything you need to know, from eligibility to how to apply, and what other benefits you might be entitled to alongside it.
What Is the Scottish Child Payment?
The Scottish Child Payment is a government-funded benefit that provides regular financial support to families with children under the age of 16. It’s specifically aimed at helping with the day-to-day costs of raising children, especially for those who are on lower incomes or receiving certain benefits.
If your application is successful, you’ll receive £27.15 per week for each eligible child. This payment is made every four weeks and goes directly into your bank account. It’s designed to help with costs such as clothing, food, school supplies, or extracurricular activities.
- Administered by: Social Security Scotland
- Eligibility: Families with children under 16 and on qualifying benefits
- Payment Type: Regular, every four weeks
- Amount: £27.15 per week per child
- Spending Restrictions: None, it’s entirely up to you
The payment does not affect other UK or Scottish benefits you may be receiving. If two people apply for the same child, a double claim process determines who gets the support. This ensures that the benefit reaches the main carer of the child, according to benefit and care evidence.
Who Can Claim the Scottish Child Payment?
If you’re raising a child in Scotland and currently receiving certain benefits, you might qualify for the Scottish Child Payment. But several conditions must be met before your application is accepted.
Do You Need to Live in Scotland?
Yes, you must be a resident of Scotland. Social Security Scotland only provides this payment to those living within the country. If you move away from Scotland, you must report this immediately, as your eligibility may change.
What Benefits Must You Receive?
You or your partner must be receiving at least one of the following qualifying benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
If your partner is named on the benefit, they should apply. You can also apply if you’ve applied for a benefit but haven’t started receiving it yet. This includes benefits from EEA countries or Switzerland, in some cases.
Are You the Main Carer for the Child?
You must be the main person responsible for the child. This includes:
- The birth parent
- A partner living with the child’s birth parent
- A kinship carer, or a partner of a kinship carer
You must also show proof, such as:
- Child is named in your Child Benefit, Universal Credit, or Pension Credit
- A letter from your local council
- A legal order such as a Guardianship, Residence, or Kinship Care Order
If there’s a deduction or sanction on your benefit, you can still apply, this won’t impact your eligibility.
How Much Can You Receive in 2025?
In 2025, the Scottish Child Payment remains at £27.15 per week per eligible child, providing steady support to qualifying families. This rate helps cover essentials such as food, clothing, school materials, or other child-related expenses. Payments are consistent and structured to ease the financial pressures of parenthood.
Weekly Payment Amount
You’ll get £27.15 each week for every child under 16 that meets the eligibility criteria. This rate applies whether you have one child or several.
Payment Frequency (Every 4 Weeks)
Payments are made every four weeks, directly into your nominated bank account. This consistent payment cycle ensures that families can plan their budgets more effectively.
Breakdown of Payment Summary for One or More Children
| Number of Children | Weekly Amount | Monthly Total (4 weeks) |
| 1 child | £27.15 | £108.60 |
| 2 children | £54.30 | £217.20 |
| 3 children | £81.45 | £325.80 |
| 4 children | £108.60 | £434.40 |
This payment continues for as long as your child remains under 16 and you meet the criteria. It’s reviewed periodically, and you must report changes in your household to avoid disruptions or overpayments.
How to Apply for Scottish Child Payment in 2025
Applying is straightforward, and Social Security Scotland offers various methods to accommodate different needs. Whether you’re tech-savvy or prefer the traditional way, there’s a process for everyone.
Can You Apply Online, by Post or Phone?
Yes, you can apply in the following ways:
- Online: Complete the form at mygov.scot
- By phone: Call 0800 182 2222, Monday to Friday, 8am–5pm
- By post: Request a paper form and pre-paid envelope
British Sign Language users can apply using the Contact Scotland service. You can also apply in over 100 different languages with interpreter support.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Collect your details: Full name, DOB, address, National Insurance number
- Add child’s information: Full name and date of birth of each eligible child
- Include partner’s information (if applicable)
- Provide bank details
- Submit your form
It takes about 10–20 minutes, and the form must be completed in one go.
Documents You’ll Need to Provide
Depending on your situation, you may be asked for:
- Benefit award letters (e.g. Universal Credit)
- Legal orders or letters from the council (for kinship carers)
- Proof of identity and address
Documents can be uploaded online or sent by post to:
Social Security Scotland
PO Box 27155
Glasgow G4 7DX
What Happens After You Apply?
Once your application is submitted, Social Security Scotland reviews your information and any supporting documents. You’ll receive a letter confirming whether you’ve been approved.
If more information is required, they’ll contact you by phone, text, or email. Payment typically starts within a few weeks once approved. If you submitted supporting documents, delays may occur if originals are not clear or complete. You should only send photocopies of documents, not originals.
You’ll be notified of your payment amount, reference number, and schedule. If you’re also eligible for other benefits like Best Start Grant, they may be triggered automatically after approval.
What If Two People Apply for the Same Child?
When more than one person applies for the same child, Social Security Scotland refers to this as a double claim. In such cases, they follow a structured process to determine who receives the payment. The main consideration is who the primary carer is, based on benefit evidence and legal documentation.
They prioritise claims where the applicant receives:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Or is a kinship carer with official documents
If both applicants have equal documentation, the matter may be escalated to the Scottish Ministers for a final decision. A letter will be sent to all parties explaining the outcome. To avoid delays, make sure your evidence clearly shows that the child lives with you.
Does Scottish Child Payment Affect Other Benefits?
No, Scottish Child Payment does not impact your existing benefits. Whether you receive UK Government benefits like Universal Credit or Scottish Government payments, your entitlement remains unaffected. It also doesn’t count as income, so it won’t reduce or cancel other support you currently receive.
However, if you receive local council allowances, you should check with your council as some grants may take the payment into account. Always report any changes in income or circumstances to both Social Security Scotland and your local authority.
You can continue to receive housing benefit, council tax reduction, and Child Benefit alongside this payment.
What Other Family Payments Can You Get Alongside It?
If you qualify for the Scottish Child Payment, you may also be entitled to additional support from Social Security Scotland. These include Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods. Some of these are paid automatically if you’re already receiving Scottish Child Payment, while others need a separate application.
Summary of Additional Family Payments
| Payment Type | Description | Amount | Payment Frequency |
| Best Start Grant | One-off payments to help with child costs | Varies by child’s age | One-time per child |
| Pregnancy and Baby Payment | Support during pregnancy or early baby care | Up to £767.50 | One-off |
| Early Learning Payment | Helps with costs for 2 to 3.5-year-olds | £319.80 | One-off |
| School Age Payment | For starting primary school | £319.80 | One-off |
| Best Start Foods | To buy healthy food during pregnancy or early childhood | Varies by age | Every 4 weeks |
| During pregnancy | Covers basics like milk and fruit | £21.60 | Every 4 weeks |
| Birth to 1 year | Higher support for infants | £43.20 per child | Every 4 weeks |
| Aged 1 to 3 | Support as your child grows | £21.60 per child | Every 4 weeks |
If your child meets the conditions and you’re already receiving Scottish Child Payment, some of these may be issued automatically. Be sure to check your eligibility to avoid missing out on extra support.
Common Application Issues and How to Solve Them?
Applying for benefits can sometimes come with hiccups. Common issues include:
- Missing documents
- Incorrect benefit names
- Not being identified as the main carer
- Outdated personal or bank details
Solutions:
- Double-check documentation before sending
- Include all required evidence
- Contact Social Security Scotland on 0800 182 2222 for guidance
- Use pre-paid envelopes for post submissions
If you experience delays, don’t hesitate to call or use the webchat at mygov.scot/contact-social-security-scotland
How to Report Changes That May Affect Your Payments?
To keep receiving payments smoothly, you must report any changes in your circumstances.
These changes may include:
- Moving out of Scotland
- No longer caring for a child
- Change in relationship or partner status
- Changes in your bank details or address
Failure to report changes could lead to overpayment or legal consequences. Contact Social Security Scotland at 0800 182 2222 or visit their website to update your information. Always keep your records and documents updated. If you’re caring for an additional child, don’t forget to add them to your claim.
Is Scottish Child Payment Right for You?
If you’re raising children on a tight budget and meet the eligibility criteria, the Scottish Child Payment can be a valuable financial lifeline. It provides consistent, flexible support with no restrictions on spending, and it complements other child and household benefits.
Ask yourself:
- Do you live in Scotland?
- Are you the main carer for a child under 16?
- Do you receive any of the qualifying benefits?
If the answer is yes, applying could make a real difference in your family’s quality of life. Support is just a call or click away.
Conclusion
Raising children is both rewarding and financially demanding, especially in today’s economic climate. The Scottish Child Payment is a vital resource designed to ease that burden for qualifying families across Scotland.
With a simple application process, no impact on other benefits, and compatibility with grants like Best Start, it’s an opportunity no eligible parent should overlook.
If you think you might qualify, now is the time to take action and apply. Visit the official site or contact Social Security Scotland today to get started.
FAQs
Can I get Scottish Child Payment if I’m working full-time?
Yes, as long as you receive a qualifying benefit, you can apply even if you’re employed full-time.
What if my benefits are currently sanctioned or deducted?
Sanctions or deductions won’t affect your eligibility for Scottish Child Payment.
Can kinship carers apply for Scottish Child Payment?
Yes, kinship carers can apply if they provide legal or council-based proof of responsibility.
Does Scottish Child Payment include automatic Best Start payments?
Some Best Start Grant payments are automatic if you already receive Scottish Child Payment and meet age criteria.
Can I receive Scottish Child Payment for more than one child?
Yes, you’ll receive £27.15 per week for each eligible child under 16.
How do I update my details if I move or change my bank?
Call Social Security Scotland at 0800 182 2222 or use their webchat to update your information.
What if I don’t have a bank account to receive the payment?
You can apply by phone or post and discuss alternative arrangements directly with Social Security Scotland.
