PARENTS can receive a major financial boost as the government’s childcare expansion continues – but the deadline is fast approaching.
The scheme acts as a “lifeline” for families offering 30 hours of free childcare for children from nine months old until they start school.
This means parents get 1,140 free hours every year, which can be used during term-time or spread out across the whole calendar.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called the move a “promise delivered” and a key part of his plan for national change.
To qualify, you must live in England and work at least 16 hours a week at the National Living Wage.
However, there is a limit for high earners, as you cannot claim the 30 hours if either parent earns over £100,000 a year.
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Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson admitted the rollout was a challenge but insisted it is just the start of better support for parents.
Experts estimate the move could save some families around £6,900 a year, helping to ease the pressure of rising costs.
New government rules have also clarified that nurseries cannot force parents to pay “hidden fees” just to secure a funded place.
You can start the application process on the GOV.UK website as soon as your child is 23 weeks old.
It is vital to apply before the termly deadlines in August, December or March to make sure your funding is ready.
For an April 2026 start, you need to apply by31 March 2026 and for a September 2026 start, the deadline is 31 August 2026.
Once you have your code, you must log in and reconfirm your details every three months or the free hours will stop.
Who’s eligible for free childcare hours?
YOU could get up to 30 hours of free childcare per week through the Free Childcare for Working Parents scheme if you meet these conditions:
- Child’s age: Your child must be between 9 months and 4 years old and live in England.
- For 2026 onwards: All children aged 9 months to 2 years will qualify for 30 free hours per week.
- Income: Each parent must earn at least £166 per week (equal to working 16 hours at minimum wage) and no more than £100,000 per year.
If you’re not eligible for the 30-hour scheme, you can still get15 free hours per weekfor all 3 and 4-year-olds, starting from the term after their third birthday until they begin school.
This is available to everyone, regardless of income or benefits.
Your 2-year-old can also get free childcare if you live in England and meet any of these conditions:
- You receive benefits like Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), or Universal Credit (with a household income of £15,400 or less after tax, not including benefit payments).
- You get the guaranteed element of Pension Credit.
Your child is also eligible if they:
- Are in the care of a local authority.
- Have an education, health, and care (EHC) plan.
- Receive Disability Living Allowance.
- Have been adopted or are under a special guardianship or child arrangements order.
Taking up the 15 free hours for 2-year-olds won’t affect your benefits