Help paying for childcare

Schemes to help parents and carers with the costs of childcare.

Funded childcare for 9-month-olds

From September 2024, 15 hours funded childcare will be available to eligible working families of 9-months-old (from the term after the child turns 9 months).

You (and any partner) must each expect to earn (on average) at least £183 per week (equal to 16 hours at the national minimum or living wage). 

If you (or your partner) are on maternity, paternity or adoption leave, or you're unable to work because you are disabled or have caring responsibilities, you could still be eligible.

You will not qualify for funded childcare if you or your partner each individually expect to earn £100,000 adjusted net income or more.

You must apply for a code before the term you want to start using the funded childcare. 

Read more about childcare support for working families

In order to get a better understanding of what the demand might be for the expanded early years entitlement and wraparound childcare, we're asking parents and carers to complete our online survey.

Page last updated: 13 May 2024