HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging young adults across the UK – including in Northern Ireland – to claim any Child Trust Fund (CTF) savings they are entitled to during National Apprenticeship Week (9–15 February).

Latest figures indicate around 758,000 young people have yet to claim their matured CTFs. With accounts worth an average of £2,242, the money could provide a valuable boost for apprentices and school leavers. In Northern Ireland, there were 5,420 apprentices aged 24 and under in the 2024/25 academic year.

CTFs are long-term, tax-free savings accounts set up for children born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011, with an initial government payment of at least £250. Young people can manage their account from age 16, and once they turn 18 the account matures, allowing them to withdraw the funds or reinvest them.

For those who know their CTF provider, the simplest route is to contact the bank, building society or investment firm directly. If the provider is unknown, the quickest and free way to find it is via the GOV.UK Child Trust Fund locator tool. Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC's Chief Customer Officer, said: "Whether young people are on an apprenticeship, starting their first job, or making plans to go to university, a Child Trust Fund can make all the difference. Find yours today by searching 'find my Child Trust Fund' on GOV.UK."

It is straightforward to search online. Young people will need their National Insurance number and date of birth. If they do not have their National Insurance number to hand, they can download the HMRC app to view it and save it to a digital wallet.

Nearly 1.7 million people under 25 have downloaded the HMRC app. As well as displaying National Insurance numbers, the app provides quick access to PAYE details, tax codes and employment history.

The CTF scheme closed in January 2011 and was replaced by Junior Individual Savings Accounts (Junior ISAs). Where a parent or guardian did not open a CTF, the government arranged an account on the child's behalf. CTFs are not held by the government; they sit with banks, building societies or other savings providers.

Across the UK, the latest available figures show 172,230 apprentices aged 24 and under in England (2024/25 academic year), 19,010 in Wales (2023/24), 14,514 modern apprentices in Scotland (2024/25) and 5,420 in Northern Ireland (2024/25).

More information about Child Trust Funds is available on GOV.UK, including the locator tool and guidance on next steps once an account matures.