A government top-up scheme where the government pays £2 for every £8 you pay into an online childcare account to cover approved childcare costs.
Families & Childcare
Up to £2,000 per year per child (or £4,000 for a disabled child)
HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)
Tick off each condition below. You'll usually need to meet all of them to qualify.
Set up an online childcare account through the Childcare Choices portal on GOV.UK.
Pay money into the account using a debit card or bank transfer.
The government automatically tops up 20% of your deposit within 24 hours to pay registered childcare providers.
Tax-Free Childcare can be combined with funded early learning hours provided through local councils, but cannot be claimed at the same time as Universal Credit childcare element.
An allowance paid to parents or guardians responsible for raising a child under 16 (or under 20 in approved education or training).
View guide Low Income & Working AgeThe main monthly payment for people of working age who are on a low income, out of work, or unable to work due to health conditions.
View guide