Eligibility

Whilst you cannot claim Universal Credit and Tax-Free Childcare at the same time, those on Universal Credit will still be able to claim the 15 hours entitlement, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria.

This will not affect your ability to claim Universal Credit. If you are taking up more than 15 hours childcare, you can claim Universal Credit Childcare, which can support you with up to 85% of the cost of any additional childcare you pay for. Please see the Universal Credit childcare costs page for more information.

Alternatively, there is a separate entitlement which means that parents of 2 year olds who are already receiving some additional forms of government support, such as Universal Credit or tax credits, can receive 15 hours of funded early education, including childcare. This is separate from the new entitlement for working parents. All parents regardless of employment status or income levels are eligible for the universal 15 hours for 3- and 4-year-olds.