How and when to apply
To apply and claim the funding:
- complete the online form and set up a childcare service account
- if you're eligible you will get an eligibility code which you must take to your provider
- you must reconfirm your eligibility every 3 months after applying (even if you haven't started claiming your extra hours)
You can only claim at the start of each new term, if your child is eligible to claim. If you fall eligible during the term you will need to wait until the start of the next to get your extra hours.
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When can I apply?
The table details what date you can apply for funding based on your child's age.
Dates parents can apply for 30 hours
| Age | When can I claim? | Recommended apply date (less than 3 months before start of term) | Latest date to take your code to your provider |
|---|
| 3 or 4 on 31 August 2018 |
1 September 2018 |
Apply from 11 June 2018. Allow yourself enough time to get your code before the August deadline. |
By 31 August 2018 |
| 3 or 4 on 31 December 2018 |
1 January 2019 |
To be confirmed |
By 31 December 2018 |
Most parents applying for 30 hours free childcare will get an immediate reply to say if they're eligible, but HMRC may need more information to make a decision for some parents. Make sure you apply in good time.