What is it?
You can claim back up to 85% of childcare costs for children under 17 if you receive Universal Credit up to a maximum monthly limit of:
- £1,031.88 per month for one child
- £1,76894 for 2 or more children
Eligible parents claiming Universal Credit are also able to get additional help with their upfront childcare costs when moving into paid work or increasing their working hours so that they can more easily pay their next set of costs.
Parents who are moving into paid work or increasing their working hours can speak to their Universal Credit work coach who can provide more information.
Is it for me?
You, and any partner you live with, must be working, or you’re due to start work, and are claiming Universal Credit and you pay childcare costs
You can't claim Universal Credit at the same time as:
- Tax credits
- Tax-Free Childcare
How do I find out more information?
Find out more on the Government's Best Start in Life parent hub
Further guidance on claiming childcare costs with Universal Credit can be found at Guidance: Universal Credit childcare costs GOV.UK) (opens in new tab)
How do I apply?
Go to Universal Credit online (opens in new tab) to apply for Universal Credit or Sign in to your existing account.
Where can I use it?
You can use more than one provider but they will need to be a registered childcare provider for you to claim universal credit childcare costs, such as:
- Registered childminders, nurseries and nannies
- Registered after-school clubs and playschemes
- Registered schools
You can find a provider near you on our Find Childcare page.
If you stop working
If you stop working, you must report a change of circumstances in your Universal Credit account.
Eligible parents claiming Universal Credit are also able to get additional help with their upfront childcare costs when moving into paid work or increasing their working hours so that they can more easily pay their next set of costs.
Parents who are moving into paid work or increasing their working hours can speak to their Universal Credit work coach who can provide more information.