Scottish Child Payment Information

When can I apply for Scottish Child Payment for a child aged 6-15?
On 14 November. You shouldn’t apply before this. We strongly encourage people to apply on the day to ensure they get all the money they are entitled to.

Should I apply before 14 November to get my award as soon as possible?
No. If we process an application before 14 November, it will be denied. We strongly encourage people to apply on the day itself or as soon after that as possible. Your award will be backdated to the date we receive your application.

I already receive Scottish Child Payment and my children are all under 6. Do I need to make a new application?
No, you don’t need to do anything. You will receive Scottish Child Payment at the new rate of £25 per child per week automatically from 14 November.

I have been receiving Scottish Child Payment but my child turns 6 before 14 November. Do I need to reapply?
Yes. You should make a new application on 14 November.

I receive Scottish Child Payment for my child aged under 6. But I also have a child aged 6 or over. What should I do?
You can add older children to your existing claim through the online Scottish Child Payment form. There’s no need to do a completely new application.

On 14 November, how should I apply for Scottish Child Payment?
We strongly encourage people to apply online. If it’s impossible for you to do so, then we can also take applications by post or over the phone on 0800 182 2222.

Is there a limit on the number of children for whom I can claim Scottish Child Payment?
No, there’s no limit. You can apply for any number of eligible children.

I am going to be applying for Scottish Child Payment for the first time on 14 November. Will I automatically qualify for some other benefits?
From 28 November, we will award Best Start Grant Early Learning Payment and School Age Payment automatically to eligible families in receipt of Scottish Child Payment, without the need to apply.

People can learn more about Best Start Grants including their ability to opt out of having them paid automatically on our website.

I get Bridging Payments. Will I need to apply for Scottish Child Payment?
Yes. Bridging Payments are administered completely separately to Scottish Child Payment. So, if you are eligible for Scottish Child Payment, you should apply for it in the normal way regardless of whether you get Bridging Payments. You will still get your final Bridging Payment (of £260) in December.

I am working. Does that mean I won’t qualify?
No, a significant proportion of people who receive qualifying benefits such as Universal Credit or Tax Credits are in work. So long as you are in receipt of a qualifying benefit you can still be eligible for Scottish Child Payment.

I am a kinship carer, can I qualify for Scottish Child Payment?
People who care for children in their family but who aren’t their parents – known as kinship carers – can qualify for Scottish Child Payment if they meet the eligibility criteria.

If I receive Scottish Child Payment, will it affect my tax payments or other benefits?
No. If you receive Scottish Child Payment, it will not affect this.

How long will it take for the money to reach my bank account?
It may take some time for us to process your payment but please be assured we will do so as quickly as we can. The money you receive should be backdated to the date we received your application. There’s no need to check on progress by phone once the application is made.