AGE 2
Free childcare for 2-year-olds
Two-year-olds sit in the 9–35 months band: eligible working parents can receive 30 funded hours a week.
Free childcare application checklist
Get the four-page England eligibility and application guide by email.
Key facts
- A 2-year-old falls in the 9-to-35-months band of the working-parent offer.
- Eligible working parents receive 30 hours a week for 38 weeks.
- If the earnings rules are not met, some 2-year-olds may qualify under separate support schemes.
Age bands at a glance
| Child’s age | Funded hours | Who qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| Under 9 months | 0 | Starts the term after 9 months |
| 9–35 months | 30 | Eligible working parents |
| 3–4 years | 15 or 30 | 15 universal; 30 if working-parent eligible |
| School age | 0 early-years hours | Scheme ends |
Frequently asked questions
How many hours can a 2-year-old get?
30 hours a week for eligible working parents.
What if we do not meet the earnings rules?
The working-parent entitlement is 0; separate support schemes may apply.
Is this England only?
Yes. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have different schemes.
How many weeks are funded?
38 weeks a year, equal to 1,140 hours at 30 hours a week.
Related guides
30 hours · Eligibility · From 9 months · Universal 15 hours · Complete guide · £100k limit · 2-year-olds · 38 weeks · Single parents