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Original poster

Applying for new 15 hours free childcare

59 replies

hipyy · 03/01/2024 16:56

Hi
Anyone trying to or already applied for the new 15 hours free childcare for 2 year olds for working parents?
We currently get tax free childcare but are now eligible for 15 hours free from April but haven't got a clue how to apply. The gov website just keeps sending me round in circles and don't know how to apply for it

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Original poster
hipyy · 04/01/2024 13:15

@princesstoots yeah I tried pressing the reapply option on my account but it said my child was already approved for TFC so wouldn't let me go any further

OP posts:
MumAlwaysWorries · 04/01/2024 11:58

The website and phone lines aren't working for this - friend of mine says her page crashed too and the helpline hung up on her immediately.

Applying for new 15 hours free childcare
princesstoots · 04/01/2024 09:03

The link just takes you to your existing TFC account though. And there isn't an option which relates to 15 hours free as such. The only thing I can think is to re-apply maybe?

Snozzlemaid · 03/01/2024 23:09

If you get tax free childcare you can apply when you next reconfirm.

If not, you should be able to apply now if your child has reached 1 year and 36 weeks old.

Here's the link to apply https://www.gov.uk/apply-free-childcare-if-youre-working

jolenethea · 03/01/2024 22:54

Following as I'm going to try and apply this week. I don't do the TFC so not sure if it'll complicate it or make it easier.

punjama · 03/01/2024 21:47

Hi posted this in old thread but wanted to ask here as on topic if my understanding is correct -
Husband works full time, I've been stay at home mum for several years (first kid 5, second 1.5).
If I register my own business (eg photographer) then even if I don't earn anything we'd be eligible for the 15 hours for when our kid is 2 (term after birthday - turns 2 in may so sept. Term start) and that would be the case for 12 months? Then only when it comes to the 30 hours at 3 would we need to show that the business made or is likely to make the minimum amount? Ie forecast 18k? And even then would it be the case that I could e.g. maybe earn 10k for whole year and it would be a "oops business didn't generate enough" or would the 3 monthly check be - sorry no longer qualified?
I'm not trying to scam or anything but I've been doing this as a hobby and without much time so hoping to use the 15h to help build up client base and portfolio over year to then hopefully turn it into something by second year.
Many thanks all!

Original poster
hipyy · 03/01/2024 21:03

@RW1983 yes I think from what I read, the applications open from 2nd January but it is 'recommended' to apply from 15th January so that you don't have to reconfirm details before it starts in April. But I don't mind, I'm happy to reconfirm. I just want to know that I'll definitely be getting it. It's so frustrating how there's no clear instructions on what we need to do, only when we need to do it...

OP posts:
RW1983 · 03/01/2024 17:42

Hi, I have had the same problem. You definitely have to apply, you don’t get it automatically, but I just keep getting sent round in circles too. I’ve seen some places saying you can apply from 2nd January, other places say apply from the 15th January. Really not sure where to go to apply for it!

Dodgygeezer · 03/01/2024 17:09

I think if you already get tax free childcare you’ll be sent a code automatically