2 year old - Working families funding
How it works
The Working Family Funding is designed to assist working families with the costs associated with early education and childcare for their little ones. The funding is intended to ensure that children receive a strong foundation for their development and prepare them for school. This funding covers a range of approved childcare providers, including nurseries, childminders, and pre-schools.
Currently 2 year olds of eligible families will be eligible for 15 hours funded childcare from April 2024. For more information on the upcoming changes in 2024/25 please visit Childcare Choices.
Are you eligible?
To determine if you are eligible for the Working Family Funding, consider the criteria. Over the next 3 months you and your partner (if you have one) must each expect to earn at least National Minimum Wage or Living Wage for 16 hours a week on average.
To be eligible for free childcare, you must have a National Insurance number and at least one of the following:
- British or Irish citizenship.
- settled or pre-settled status.
- permission to access public funds - your UK residence card will tell you if you cannot do this.
If you have a partner, they must have a National Insurance number as well.
For more information and full criteria please go to the Government website.
When to apply
| When your child turns 2 | When to apply for working family funding | When your child can start using working family funding |
|---|---|---|
| Between 1 January and 31 March | Between 1 January and 31 March | 1 April (Summer term) |
| Between 1 April and 31 August | Between 1 April and 31 August | 1 September (Autumn term) |
| Between 1 September and 31 December | Between 1 September and 31 December | 1 January (Spring term) |
Important to know
Keep in mind that the eligibility codes will need to be reconfirmed every 3 months. Stay informed about any renewal requirements to continue receiving support.
You may also fall in and out of eligibility depending on if your working status changes. This would mean you may lose the funded hour.
How to apply
It shouldn’t take long to apply. You may find out if you’re eligible straight away, but it can take up to 7 days.
Once your application has been approved, you’ll get a code for funded childcare to give to your childcare provider.