Free Childcare Hours Eligibility Calculator 2026
Check eligibility for free childcare hours. All 3-4 year olds get 15 hours. Working parents get 30 hours. From September 2024: 15 hours extended to 9-month-olds.
Free Childcare Hours Checker
Frequently Asked Questions
How many free childcare hours are available?
All 3-4 year olds: 15 hours/week (570 hours/year). Working parents of 3-4 year olds: 30 hours/week (1,140 hours/year). Working parents from 9 months to 2 years: 15 hours/week (extended from September 2024).
What counts as 'working' for 30 hours free childcare?
Each parent must earn at least £8,856 per year (national minimum wage × 16 hours × 52 weeks) and no more than £100,000 adjusted net income. Self-employed income counts.
Can I get 30 hours if I'm on maternity/paternity leave?
Yes — parents on maternity, paternity, adoption, or shared parental leave are treated as working for the 30-hours eligibility test.
What if one parent earns over £100,000?
If either parent earns over £100,000 adjusted net income, you're not eligible for 30 hours. You may still get 15 universal hours for 3-4 year olds.
When can I start claiming the 15 hours for a 9-month-old?
From the term after the baby turns 9 months old: either January 1, April 1, or September 1 (whichever comes first after their 9-month birthday).
How do I apply for free childcare hours?
Apply via your Childcare account at gov.uk. You'll get a code to give to your registered childcare provider. Reconfirm eligibility every 3 months.
Can I use free hours with a childminder?
Yes — free hours can be used with any Ofsted-registered provider: day nurseries, preschools, nursery schools, childminders. The provider must participate in the funded scheme.
What is the 'universal' 15 hours for 3-4 year olds?
All children aged 3-4 are entitled to 15 free hours per week, regardless of whether parents work. This applies in England.
Do free childcare hours cover meals and activities?
Providers can charge for meals, nappies, and optional activities. They cannot charge for the free hours themselves.
Can I split my hours across multiple providers?
Yes — you can split your free hours across different registered providers, as long as no single session is less than 2 hours and no session is longer than 10 hours.
What about Scotland and Wales?
Scotland and Wales have their own free childcare schemes. This calculator covers England. Scotland offers 1,140 hours/year for 3-5 year olds and eligible 2 year olds.
Is free childcare available over the summer?
Free hours are typically term-time (38 weeks/year). Ask your provider about 'stretched' provision which spreads hours over 48-52 weeks at fewer hours per week.