Check what help you could get with childcare costs

Use this calculator to find out how much you could get towards approved childcare, including:

  • free childcare for children aged between 2 and 4
  • help with childcare costs if your child is under 16 (or under 17 and disabled)

This service is also available in Welsh (Cymraeg).

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What you need to know

From September 2024, you’ll be able to get 15 hours of free childcare for your child from the age of 9 months if you’re working. You can apply from 12 May.

Part of Get Tax-Free Childcare: step by step

  1. Step 1 Check you're eligible

    1. Check if you're eligible for Tax-Free Childcare
    2. Find out what types of childcare you can use

  2. Step 2 Check if you'll be better off

    Your tax credits will stop immediately if you successfully apply for Tax-Free Childcare.

    You (and your partner, if you have one) will also have to cancel your Universal Credit and childcare vouchers.

    Before you apply, check if it's the right option for you.

    1. You are currently viewing: Check if you'll be better off

  3. Step 3 Apply for Tax-Free Childcare

    There's one application for Tax-Free Childcare and free childcare if you're working. As part of your application, you will find out if you can get both.

    1. Apply online for Tax-Free Childcare

    If you're eligible you'll get a childcare account. You can use this to pay your childcare provider.

  4. Step 4 Sign in to your account to pay your childcare provider

    1. Sign in to your childcare account

  5. and Reconfirm your details every 3 months

    You must confirm your details are up to date every 3 months.

    1. Sign in to your childcare account to confirm your details

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