Free childcare for working parents

Working families who meet the eligibility criteria can claim up to 30 hours of childcare per week. Currently this entitlement is available for 3 to 4 year olds who meet the criteria, however from April 2024 this will be expanded as follows;

From April 2024, eligible working parents of 2-year-olds can access 15 hours funded early education and childcare (over 38 weeks a year) from the term after their child's 2nd birthday.

From Sept 2024, eligible working parents of children aged 9 months up to 3-year-olds can access 15 hours funded early education and childcare (over 38 weeks a year) from the term following their child turning 9 months.

From Sept 2025, the offer will be rolled out in full, with eligible working parents of children aged 9 months and above able to access 30 hours funded early education and childcare (over 38 weeks a year) from the term following their child turning 9 months.

Applications must be made through the HMRC's Childcare Choices website. If you're unable to apply online or have any problems with the application process, please contact HMRC's Childcare Service Customer Interaction Centre on 0300 123 4097 for support.

Please remember you need to renew your code every 3 months to continue claiming the funding.