Free Childcare Hours

What it is

Government-funded nursery/childcare hours that you don't have to pay for. The amount depends on your child's age and work status.

The entitlements (England)

Universal 15 Hours: 15 hours/week for all 3 and 4 year olds. No work or income requirements.

15 Hours for Eligible 2 Year Olds: Based on receiving certain benefits or if your child has an EHC plan.

15 Hours from 9 Months (Working Parents): Both parents must be working and meet income thresholds.

30 Hours (Working Parents): From 9 months until school. Each parent must earn at least £8,670/year and under £100,000.

How to apply

Apply via the Childcare Service at gov.uk/childcare-calculator. Same application as Tax-Free Childcare. You'll receive an eligibility code for your provider. Reconfirm every 3 months.

Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland

• Scotland: All 3-4 year olds and eligible 2 year olds get 1,140 hours/year (about 30 hours/week term-time)
• Wales: Up to 30 hours for working parents of 3-4 year olds
• Northern Ireland: 12.5 hours/week pre-school the year before primary school

Key things to know

• Free hours cover 38 weeks/year - many providers offer "stretched" hours across 52 weeks
• Providers can charge for meals, nappies, and optional activities - but these must be genuinely optional
• Apply early - at least a few weeks before term starts to get your code in time