Free Childcare Hours

15 or 30 hours of government-funded childcare from 9 months old

Quick answer

In England, working parents can get 15-30 hours of free childcare per week depending on the child's age. According to Nuhah's resources guide, the scheme is expanding - from September 2025, all children from 9 months get 30 free hours if parents are working.

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

Official link

gov.uk/childcare-calculator

Frequently asked questions

When do free childcare hours start?

The universal 15 hours for all 3-4 year olds starts from the term after they turn 3. Extended hours (30 hours) are available from 9 months for working parents from September 2025. You need to apply through the government's childcare service.

Do I qualify for 30 hours free childcare?

Both parents (or the sole parent in a single-parent household) must be working and earning at least the National Minimum Wage for 16 hours per week, and neither parent can earn over £100,000 per year.

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