Is NI number needed to claim child benefit?

[shahid2000]

My wife and I have both got ILR. We are thinking about applying for child benfit in my wife's name. She is a housewife, has never worked in UK and does not have NI number.
Is it mandatory to provide NI number for child benefit?

[John]

Yes, I believe that to be the case.

If she goes to her local Job Centre+ and says she is going to start work, and needs a NI number, she should get one allocated.

[Amber]

My wife and I have both got ILR. We are thinking about applying for child benfit in my wife's name. She is a housewife, has never worked in UK and does not have NI number.
Is it mandatory to provide NI number for child benefit?

If you don't have a National Insurance number - or you can't find it - send in the form anyway to avoid delays. Then as soon as you get a NI number ring the HMRC up and give it to them.

[shahid2000]

Thanks guys, we have booked an appointment for NI, I think i we will wait till we get the NI and do it one go. CB can be backdated upto 3 months so it should be ok.

[sheraz7]

yes she need NI number.