15/30 Hours Free Childcare: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn if you qualify for government-funded childcare hours for children aged 3 to 4 and understand what is actually included in the scheme.
This scheme provides government-funded childcare hours for children in the early years age group.
Who it's for
The scheme is designed for parents of children who are 3 to 4 years old. There are two different tiers of support available depending on your circumstances. All eligible parents can access 15 hours of free childcare, but those who are working may qualify for a higher amount of 30 hours.
What you get
You can receive up to 30 hours of free childcare per week. It is important to note that these hours are provided during term time rather than throughout the entire year.
What it costs you
While the childcare hours themselves are provided by the government, there is an administrative requirement to participate. To access the benefit, you must go through the official process to receive an eligibility code from the government portal. You will need this code to prove your status to your childcare provider.
The catch to know
The most common thing for parents to miss is that "free" hours do not necessarily mean "all-inclusive" sessions. While the time spent in childcare is covered, the hours often do not include the cost of food or participation in special trips. You should check with your nursery or childcare provider to see if they charge extra for meals or activities.
How to apply
- Visit the official childcare choices website to start your application.
- Confirm your eligibility based on your employment status and your child's age.
- Complete the application to receive your official eligibility code.
- Share your eligibility code with your chosen childcare provider.