September is upon us which means applications are now open for 15 hours free childcare, for eligible parents with a child from age 9-months-old!
This expansion has been introduced in leu of the 30 hours of government-funded childcare that was made available to parents of 3 and 4-year-olds. This combines the universal 15 hours, which is available to all families, with a further 15-hour entitlement for working parents.
From September 2024, 15 hours of childcare support will be extended to eligible working parents with a child from age 9-months-old.
Am I eligible for 15 hours free childcare?
The amount of free childcare you can get depends on:
- your child’s age and circumstances
- whether you’re working (employed, self-employed, or a director)
- your income (and your partner’s income, if you have one)
You can check your eligibility online at the gov.uk website. It is advisable that you ensure you meet all requirements before filling out an application.
How do I apply for 15 hours free childcare?
Applications are open for eligible working parents whose children will be aged at least 9-months-old on or before 31 August, to receive 15 hours childcare starting from September. You can access this via the gov.uk website here: https://www.access.service.gov.uk/login/signin/creds
Before starting the application, you will need to make sure you have the following:
- 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.
These 15 hours can be combined with the universal 15 hours to make 30 hours childcare when your child turns 3 or 4.
Once you receive your code, you’ll need to take it to your childcare provider, along with your National Insurance number and your child’s date of birth.
It’s also important to remember that codes need to be renewed every three months.
It is recommended that everyone who is seeking a childcare place for September 2024 and has not yet done so, speaks to their chosen provider and applies for a code as soon as possible.
This so that you avoid the disappointment of not receiving your first-choice place.
Am I eligible for 15 hours free childcare if I’m not currently working?
You may still be eligible if your partner is working, and you are on carer’s leave or if you get any of the following:
- Incapacity Benefit
- Severe Disablement Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Limited Capability for Work Benefit
- Contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance
If you have any questions or require further information, don’t hesitate to contact us!
Email us via – info@future-cloud.co.uk.
To read more about eligibility head to the gov.uk website – https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2024/07/26/how-to-claim-15-hours-free-childcare-code/
We hope this was helpful!