How to apply for 30 hours childcare

For working families in England, with 3 and 4 year old children

Check you're eligible

Find out more about eligibility at www.gov.uk/30-hours-free-childcare

Use the online childcare calculator to compare different types of support.

 

When can I apply for 30 hours?

You need to apply the term before you want to take up a place

Eligible to start 30 hours from...

Term starting on, or following 1st January

Best to apply between...

15th October - 30th November

Eligible to start 30 hours from...

Term starting on, or following 1st April

Best to apply between...

15th January - 28th February

Eligible to start 30 hours from...

Term starting on, or following 1st September

Best to apply between...

15th June - 31st July

Apply for 30 hours childcare

If eligible, you'll get an online childcare account and a code for 30 hours childcare.

Apply at www.gov.uk/apply-30-hours-free-childcare

Watch this video to find out more about how to apply.

Give the code to your childcare provider(s)

Give the code in your childcare account to your provider(s) along with your National Insurance number and your child's date of birth.

Your childcare provider(s) will check your code is valid - you can't take up your 30 hours place without it.

Reconfirm

You must confirm your details are up to date every 3 months or your code will expire.

Sign into your childcare account to confirm your details.

You will receive a reminder to do this.