You are one step away from claiming Tax-Free Childcare. Check the eligibility criteria and the documents you will need so you can claim without delays.
Check each condition below before you claim. Having your documents ready means fewer delays.
If you are unsure whether you qualify, a free benefits calculator can give you an estimate in minutes.
Clear criteria, faster claim
20% government top-upApply onlineReconfirm every 3 months
📋 Who can claim
- Working: You (and your partner) must be working and expect to earn at least the minimum income over the next 3 months.
- Income limit: Neither of you can have adjusted net income over £100,000.
- Child's age: The child must be 11 or under, or 16 or under if disabled.
- Not on Universal Credit: You cannot claim it at the same time as Universal Credit or childcare vouchers.
🧮 Before you claim
- Read the eligibility rules on the official page.
- Gather your National Insurance number and bank details.
- Have information about your income, savings and household ready.
✅ Good to know
- Approved providers: Use it for registered nurseries, childminders, after-school clubs and holiday clubs.
- Withdraw if needed: You can take money back out of the account.
- Use with free hours: Can be combined with free childcare hours.
Eligibility is decided by HMRC and must be reconfirmed every 3 months.