If you were born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011 you could get money from a forgotten savings account.
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About the Child Trust Fund
Between the qualifying time, the Government gave money to start a savings account. This was to help families save money for when their child grows up. Parents, guardians, family and friends could also add to the fund over the years.
The money in a Child Trust Fund belongs to you, and you can take control of it at age 16, with full access at 18. You can choose how to use the money. This is your money. Access it, use it, and make it count. Unclaimed Funds could provide you with a springboard to the start of your adult life. Take action now and tell others, so every young person accesses their account.
How much could be waiting for you?
It depends on how much was first added into the account. The government gave £250 or £500 and some children from lower income families got extra money.
If you were born in Wales an extra payment may have been made. Some accounts now have hundreds or thousands of pounds because of interest paid.
Find and access your Child Trust Fund
- Use the Find a Child Trust Fund tool on GOV.UK.
- Fill in the online form with your details. If you are a parent or guardian of someone with an account, you will need to provide your child’s information including their National Insurance Number.
- HMRC will search their records and let you know which provider manages the fund.
- If you are 16 you can take over the account management, at 18 you can transfer or access your account.
- If you need any help or advice finding your Child Trust Fund or want to talk to someone about it, contact meiccymru who can help you.
Your questions answered
Why do unclaimed Child Trust Funds exist?
Some families may have lost track of the account or forgotten about it. Some people don’t realise their child has a fund because the government may have opened it on their behalf.
This means many young adults may be unaware that there is money waiting for them.
What if I don’t know if I have a Child Trust Fund?
If you were born in the right period but never got any forms, or if you lost your details, don't worry. You can check with HMRC. Give them your National Insurance number and date of birth using their online tool.
Beware of online ads offering help to find Child Trust Funds. You can access lost Child Trust Funds for free. The free tool on GOV.UK will help you find it; there's absolutely no need to pay anyone to help.
What happens if a Child Trust Fund isn’t claimed?
The money remains safe and continues to grow tax-free until the account holder claims it. There is no deadline or penalty for delayed access. The earlier you claim, the sooner you can choose where to reinvest or simply use the money.
Can I transfer my Child Trust Fund to another account?
Yes. Many young people move their Child Trust Fund into a Junior ISA or adult savings account. This will give you better rates and more choices. Your provider can guide you through the process.
What if my provider no longer exists?
Your money stays safe, even if the fund company changes its name or shuts down. HMRC will help you track down your account.
How can I use the money?
You can use the money for education, job training, travel, starting a business, or saving. Choose what’s best for you and spend it well.
How you can help others find their funds
Many Child Trust Fund holders do not realise they have an account. Parents, teachers, and youth workers can play a role in raising awareness. Mention Child Trust Funds in school assemblies, youth groups, and community events. Employers can remind eligible young staff in newsletters.
Will these savings impact my benefits?
Savings below £6,000 will not affect your award for Universal Credit. Contact Advicelink Cymru on 0800 702 2020 and a trained advisor will talk to you about your circumstances. They will help you with advice on your individual situation.
I am part of an organisation who works with children and young people and would like to share information with them
Please start the conversation and remind young people regularly. There are communication templates available for you to share with young people.
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