If you are a working parent in England with a child aged between 9 months and 4 years old, you may be entitled to up to 30 hours of free childcare per week during term time, starting from September 2025.
This expanded support from the government aims to help families better balance work and family life, while easing the financial pressures associated with early years education. Understanding your entitlements and applying at the right time is key to making the most of this opportunity.
What Are the Current Childcare Entitlements?
From September 2025, eligible parents in England can access 30 hours of government-funded childcare per week for children aged nine months up to four years. The scheme operates during term time (38 weeks per year), but many childcare providers allow parents to “stretch” the hours over the full year.
Previously, only 3 and 4 year olds qualified for 15 to 30 hours. The upcoming changes mean even families with babies as young as 9 months can receive support, significantly broadening access to early education.
Am I Eligible for Free Childcare?
Eligibility for the 30-hour entitlement is based on income and employment. Generally, you and your partner if aged 21 or over must both be working and earning at least £2,539 before tax over the next 3 months, but each earning under £100,000 per year. Self-employed individuals are also eligible.
If you are not currently employed but receive certain benefits, such as Carer’s Allowance or Disability Living Allowance, you may still qualify if your partner meets the working requirements. Residency requirements also apply as parents must hold British or Irish citizenship, or have settled or pre-settled status.
How Do I Apply For The 30 Hours Free Childcare?
Applications are managed through the government’s Childcare Service portal. Parents can apply when their child turns 23 weeks old.
To receive free childcare from the start of a new term, you must apply by the end of the previous term. For example, to start in September, apply before 31 August. Once accepted, you will receive a code to give to your nursery or provider, who must be registered to offer the 30 hours.
Parents must reconfirm their eligibility every 3 months to continue receiving funding.
What If I Already Receive 15 Hours?
If you are currently receiving 15 hours of free childcare for your 3 or 4 year old, you do not need to reapply if you are eligible for 30 hours. As long as you meet the criteria and continue to reconfirm your status, your entitlement will be updated, and your code remains valid.
It is best to discuss with your childcare provider how they implement the additional hours, as availability can vary.
What Other Support Is Available?
In addition to free childcare hours, families may benefit from:
- Tax-Free Childcare: For every £8 you contribute, the government adds £2, up to £2,000 per child annually. This can be used for registered childcare, including nurseries, childminders and after-school clubs.
- Universal Credit: If you claim Universal Credit, you could get up to 85% of your childcare costs covered. This is up to £951 per month for one child or £1,630 for two or more children.
- Student Support: Full-time students may be eligible for a Childcare Grant or similar support through their institution or the government.
Parents cannot claim both Tax-Free Childcare and childcare costs through Universal Credit at the same time, so it is important to determine which option gives you the most support.
What If My Situation Changes?
Any change in work, income or living situation could impact your eligibility. You are required to update the Childcare Service portal if there are changes to your household income, employment status or other relevant details.
If you become ineligible, there is usually a grace period allowing your child to continue attending while you requalify or make alternative arrangements.
Can I Combine Support Options?
Yes, many families combine the 30 hours of free childcare with Tax-Free Childcare to reduce their out-of-pocket expenses. Providers often offer flexible options to stretch hours over more weeks or include additional care at a cost.
You should also check what extras (e.g. meals, trips, nappies) are included, as some costs may not be covered by the government funding.
Summary
Understanding what childcare support you are entitled to can make a huge difference both financially and practically. With childcare costs rising and more families juggling work and parenting, taking advantage of schemes like the 30 hours free childcare is a step towards more accessible early education.
With applications now open and changes rolling out through to 2025, planning ahead and securing your preferred provider, such as a local nursery or forest school, is key to giving your child the best possible start.