Tax credits and childcare
You may be able to claim:
- Child Tax Credit - you do not need to be working
- Working Tax Credit - you may be able to claim extra amount to help cover the costs of approved childcare
You can apply for Working Tax Credit even if you’re on leave or about to start a new job.
If you already claim tax credits
Call HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to update your claim if you’re already claiming tax credits - you do not need a claim form.
You must tell HMRC about changes to your circumstances, for example your childcare costs stop or change by an average of £10 or more a week.
You must renew your claim every year. You’ll get a reminder.
If your child is not in childcare because of coronavirus (COVID-19)
From 8 September 2020, you cannot claim extra for childcare if your child is not going because of coronavirus, for example if their nursery was closed.
If your child stops going to childcare for 4 weeks or more when they normally would - for any reason - you must tell HMRC.