UK Childcare Support Calculator 2025/26
Calculate childcare costs and explore support options available in the UK
Understanding Childcare Costs and Support in the UK
Childcare costs can be significant, but there are several support schemes available in the UK to help families manage these expenses. Understanding your options can help you plan your finances better.
Tax-Free Childcare
Tax-Free Childcare is a government scheme that provides up to £2,000 per child per year (up to £4,000 for disabled children) to help with childcare costs. For every £8 you pay in, the government adds £2, up to the maximum.
- Available for children under 12 (or under 17 if disabled)
- Both parents must be working (or one parent if you're a single parent)
- Earnings thresholds apply: £8,666 to £100,000 per year per parent
- You must use a registered childcare provider
Universal Credit Childcare Support
If you receive Universal Credit, you can claim back up to 85% of your childcare costs (up to £646.35 per month for one child, or £1,108.04 for two or more children).
- You must be working and paying for childcare
- Your partner must also be working or have limited capability for work
- Payments are made monthly in arrears
Free Hours for 2-Year-Olds
Eligible 2-year-olds can get 15 hours of free childcare per week (570 hours per year) during term time. Eligibility is based on specific criteria, including receipt of certain benefits.
Free Hours for 3 and 4-Year-Olds
All 3 and 4-year-olds in England are entitled to 15 hours of free childcare per week (570 hours per year). Working parents may be eligible for 30 hours of free childcare per week (1,140 hours per year).
- Both parents must be working (or one parent if you're a single parent)
- Each parent must earn at least the equivalent of 16 hours at National Living Wage per week
- Neither parent should earn more than £100,000 per year
Planning for Childcare Costs
Childcare costs can significantly impact your take-home pay. Use our Salary Calculator to understand your net income after tax and plan for childcare expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does childcare cost in the UK?
Childcare costs vary significantly by location, provider type, and child's age. On average, full-time childcare can cost between £200-£300 per week per child. Costs are typically higher in London and the South East.
What is Tax-Free Childcare and am I eligible?
Tax-Free Childcare provides up to £2,000 per child per year (£4,000 for disabled children) to help with childcare costs. To be eligible, both parents (or one if single) must be working, earning between £8,666 and £100,000 per year, and using a registered childcare provider.
Can I claim childcare costs on Universal Credit?
Yes, if you receive Universal Credit and are working, you can claim back up to 85% of your childcare costs, up to a maximum of £646.35 per month for one child or £1,108.04 for two or more children. You'll need to provide receipts and pay childcare costs upfront.
How many free hours of childcare can I get?
All 3 and 4-year-olds are entitled to 15 hours of free childcare per week. Working parents may be eligible for 30 hours per week. Eligible 2-year-olds may also qualify for 15 hours of free childcare. The exact entitlement depends on your circumstances.
Can I use both Tax-Free Childcare and free hours?
No, you cannot use Tax-Free Childcare and free hours for the same child at the same time. You must choose one scheme. However, you can use free hours for one child and Tax-Free Childcare for another.
How does childcare affect my take-home pay?
Childcare costs are paid from your net (take-home) pay, which can significantly impact your available income. Use our Salary Calculator to see your take-home pay after all deductions, then subtract your childcare costs to understand your available income.
Are childcare costs tax deductible?
Childcare costs are not directly tax deductible. However, Tax-Free Childcare and Universal Credit childcare support can help reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Employer childcare vouchers may also be available through some employers (though this scheme closed to new applicants in 2018).
What is the difference between registered and unregistered childcare?
Registered childcare providers are registered with Ofsted (in England), Care Inspectorate (in Scotland), or equivalent regulatory bodies. Only registered providers can be used with government support schemes like Tax-Free Childcare and free hours.
How can I reduce my childcare costs?
You can reduce childcare costs by taking advantage of government support schemes (Tax-Free Childcare, free hours, Universal Credit), sharing childcare with family members, using workplace nurseries (if available), or exploring nanny-sharing arrangements. Some employers also offer childcare vouchers or salary sacrifice schemes.
Where can I get more information about childcare support?
For detailed information about childcare support schemes, eligibility, and how to apply, visit the GOV.UK childcare costs page. You can also use our Salary Calculator to understand your take-home pay and plan for childcare expenses.