ENGLAND WORKING-PARENT SCHEME
Free childcare for working parents
Age bands, earnings conditions, funded hours and the three-step application process in one guide.
Age bands and hours
| 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 |
The earnings test
Each required parent aged 21 or over must expect at least £2,643.68 before tax over the next 3 months (£203.36 per week). No parent can expect adjusted net income over £100,000. For couples, both partners must meet the criteria. Younger age bands have lower minimums.
How to apply
- Set up a childcare account.
- Get the eligibility code and give it to the provider.
- Reconfirm eligibility every 3 months.
Scope
This applies to England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland operate different schemes. Separate support rules may give some 2-year-olds 15 hours.
Related guides
30 hours · Eligibility · From 9 months · Universal 15 hours
Frequently asked questions
Who qualifies for the working-parent hours?
Each required parent must meet the minimum earnings rule and neither can expect adjusted net income over £100,000.
What is the annual equivalent of 30 hours?
1,140 hours over 38 weeks.
How do parents apply?
Set up a childcare account, obtain the code and reconfirm every 3 months.
What about 2-year-old support schemes?
Some children may receive 15 hours through separate support criteria; version 1 provides a generic note only.
Where does this scheme apply?
England only.
Free childcare application checklist
Get the four-page England eligibility and application guide by email.