Applications are now open for eligible working parents of 2-year-olds to receive 15 hours free childcare, starting from April 2024.

From April 2024, eligible working parents of 2-year-olds will be able to access 15 hours childcare support.

From September 2024, 15 hours childcare support will be extended to eligible working parents with a child from 9-months-old.

From September 2025, 30 hours for eligible working parents with a child from 9-months-old up to school age.

How do I apply?

You need to meet the eligibility criteria before you can claim 15 hours free childcare.
You apply online here on Gov.uk.

You’ll need to make sure you have the following information to hand before starting the application:

• your national insurance number (or unique taxpayer reference if you are self-employed)
• the date you started or are due to start work
• details of any government support or benefits you receive
• the UK birth certificate reference number (if you have one) for your child.

You may find out if you’re eligible straight away, but it can take up to 7 days.

Once your application has been approved, you’ll get a code for free childcare to give to the school that you would like your child to attend.

Applications are open from now until 31 March. If you miss the deadline you won’t be able to start using the new entitlements from 1 April. We encourage all parents to apply as soon as possible once they have received their code.