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.
Once your application has been approved, you’ll get a code to give to your childcare provider.
When to apply for 15 hours free childcare
You can apply from when your child is 23 weeks old.
When your child is 9 months old | When you can get your hours from | When to apply |
---|---|---|
1 September to 31 December | Term starting on or after 1 January | The term before 1 January |
1 January to 31 March | Term starting on or after 1 April | The term before 1 April |
1 April to 31 August | Term starting on or after 1 September | The term before 1 September |