The lowdown on the 30 hours free childcare scheme

Since 2017, the government has offered working parents of 3- and 4-year-olds in England up to 30 hours of free childcare each week (an increase from the standard 15 hours). Not everyone qualifies for the full 30 hours, but all families are still entitled to at least 15 free hours.

Eligibility

• Both parents must be working, or the sole parent must be working in a single-parent household.
• Each parent (or the sole parent) needs to earn at least the equivalent of 16 hours at the National Minimum or Living Wage per week. As of April 2025, that’s around £123 per week for anyone aged 21 and over.
• You don’t have to physically work 16 hours a week, as long as your earnings meet the minimum amount.
• Each parent must also earn less than £100,000 per year.
• If you’re a lone parent living with a partner, both of you must meet the above criteria – even if your partner is not the child’s biological parent.

When will my child be eligible?

Your child becomes eligible from the term after their 3rd birthday, or the term after you receive your eligibility code – whichever is later.

For example:

• If your child turns three on 25 March and you apply before 31 March, they’ll be eligible from 1 April (the start of the summer term).
• If your child turns three on 25 March but you don’t apply until 5 April, they won’t be eligible until 1 September (the start of the autumn term).

How do I apply?

• You apply for both the 30-hour offer and Tax-Free Childcare through the Childcare Choices website
• You’ll need to provide your National Insurance number and confirm your expected income for the next three months (and your partner’s too, if applicable). You must reconfirm your eligibility every three months – you’ll usually get a reminder.
• If you provide false information, you could face a fine of up to £3,000.
• If successful, you’ll receive an 11-digit code to give your childcare provider, along with your child’s birth certificate and your National Insurance number.

Will all nurseries offer the free 30 hours?

Many do, but some choose not to because they feel the government funding doesn’t cover their full costs. Nurseries can also limit the times and days when funded hours can be used.

Will I be charged for extras?

Yes, possibly. The government funding only covers the core education and care. Nurseries can charge for meals, snacks, nappies, trips, or optional extras. You might be able to provide your own packed lunch if facilities allow. Some providers also request voluntary contributions to help cover shortfalls.