Get Tax-Free Childcare: step by step

Check if you’re eligible for Tax-Free Childcare, how to apply and how to pay your childcare provider.

  1. Step 1 Check you're eligible

  2. Step 2 Check if you'll be better off

    Your tax credits will stop immediately if you successfully apply for Tax-Free Childcare.

    You (and your partner, if you have one) will also have to cancel your Universal Credit and childcare vouchers.

    Before you apply, check if it's the right option for you.

    1. Check if you'll be better off
  3. Step 3 Apply for Tax-Free Childcare

    There's one application for Tax-Free Childcare and free childcare if you're working. As part of your application, you will find out if you can get both.

    1. Apply online for Tax-Free Childcare

    If you're eligible you'll get a childcare account. You can use this to pay your childcare provider.

  4. Step 4 Sign in to your account to pay your childcare provider

  5. and Reconfirm your details every 3 months

    You must confirm your details are up to date every 3 months.

    1. Sign in to your childcare account to confirm your details