What documents do I need to apply?

You'll need your National Insurance number, recent payslips or P60, and your child's birth certificate. Self-employed parents need SA302 forms from HMRC.

How long does it take to get my code?

Most applications are processed within 7 days. You'll get your 11-digit code in your online account when approved.

What if my code doesn't work?

Check that you've entered it correctly. If it still doesn't work, contact HMRC childcare service or check if you need to reconfirm your eligibility.

Can I apply if I'm self-employed?

Yes, self-employed parents can apply. You'll need to provide evidence of your income, such as SA302 forms from HMRC or your latest tax return.

What happens if I change jobs?

You must update your details in your childcare account immediately. Changes to your working status or income can affect your eligibility.

Do I need to reconfirm every 3 months?

Yes. Log into your childcare account and reconfirm to keep the code active. Set a reminder to avoid losing your funded hours.

How to apply for a 30 hours childcare code | Childcare Hours UK

To get your 30 hours childcare code, you need to apply through the government's childcare service. The process takes about 10 minutes and you'll get your 11-digit code within a few days if you're eligible.

What you'll need

The 30 hours funding scheme provides working parents with up to 30 hours of free childcare per week for children aged 3-4 years. Some 2-year-olds may also qualify under certain circumstances.

Important

You must reconfirm your eligibility every 3 months to keep your funded hours. Set a reminder in your calendar to avoid losing your place.

Who can apply

To qualify for 30 hours funding, you must meet all of these requirements:

Your child is aged 3-4 years (or 2 years in some cases)
You (and your partner, if you have one) are working
You each earn at least £152 per week on average
You each earn less than £100,000 per year
You live in England

Where to apply

Apply through the government's childcare service website. You'll need to create an account first if you don't have one.

When to apply

Apply at least 2-3 months before you need childcare to start. This gives you time to find a provider and ensures you don't miss any deadlines.

Give the code to your provider

Once you receive your eligibility code, you have 31 days to give it to a childcare provider. If you don\'t use it within this time, you\'ll need to apply again.

Finding a provider

Not all childcare providers offer funded places, and some may have waiting lists. Start looking for providers as soon as you apply, rather than waiting for approval.

Reconfirming your eligibility

You must reconfirm your eligibility every 3 months through your online account. The system will send you reminders, but it\'s your responsibility to complete this on time.

Don\'t miss the deadline

If you miss your reconfirmation deadline, you\'ll lose your funded hours immediately. Your provider will start charging you the full rate from the next term.

Common errors

Application rejected

If your application is rejected, you\'ll receive an explanation. Common reasons include:

Not meeting the working hours requirement
Income too low or too high
Missing or incorrect documentation
Partner not included in the application

Can\'t find a provider

If you\'re struggling to find a provider that offers funded places:

Contact your local authority for a list of providers
Consider childminders as well as nurseries
Look at providers slightly further from home
Join waiting lists at multiple providers

Next steps

After successfully applying for 30 hours funding, you might want to:

Calculate your potential savings with our savings calculator
Learn about tax-free childcare to maximize your benefits
Understand what\'s included in funding with our guide on fees and extras

Step-by-step guide

Check you meet the basic requirements

Before applying, ensure you meet the working requirements and your child is the right age. Both parents must usually work at least 16 hours per week and earn between £152 per week and £100,000 per year.

Create your childcare account

Visit the government's childcare service website and create an account. You'll need your National Insurance number, partner's details (if applicable), and basic personal information.

Gather required documents

Collect recent payslips, P60, bank statements, and any other income evidence. Self-employed parents need SA302 forms or equivalent documentation from HMRC.

Complete the application form

Fill in all sections accurately, including working hours, income details, and childcare requirements. Double-check all information before submitting.

Receive your eligibility code

If approved, you'll receive an 11-digit eligibility code. This usually happens within a few days of submitting your application.

Give your code to your provider

Share your eligibility code with your chosen childcare provider. They'll use this to claim funding for your child's place.

How to apply for a 30 hours childcare code