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From April 2024, eligible working parents of 2-year-olds will be able to access 15 hours childcare support.
When can I apply?
- Applications are open until 31 March for eligible working parents of 2-year-olds to receive 15 hours free childcare starting from April 2024.
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From 1 April, eligible working parents whose children will be 2 or older by the 31 August, can apply to receive 15 hours childcare starting from September 2024.
How do I apply?
- You apply online here on Gov.uk once you have checked our eligibility criteria.
- 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.
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Once your application has been approved, you’ll get a code to give to your childcare provider.
What happens once I receive my code?
- 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.
- Your childcare provider will process the code to provide your place.
- Your local authority can provide support for finding a government-funded place in your area.