When do I need to return to work for childcare hours?

[BrightBear1682]

I’m completely baffled regarding when I’d need to return to work to qualify for the free hours for childcare from 9 months old. I think I understand when I’d need to apply for the hours by, but I’m confused as when I need to be “back in work” to qualify.
Due date is 22nd May, so assuming he’s on time will be 9months old by the end of February 2027. So I believe I qualify for the free hours from 1st April and need to apply by 31st March. But I’m confused as to when I need to be back at work to qualify, I intend on being “back at work” but actually on annual leave for a month or so, so it’ll be in this time

That'll be fine then as you're back at work although on annual leave. Unless you've got a super rare childcare provider just a word of warning that the "free" hours aren't at all "free" and require some form of "top up" (though it's never called that) also just to say "tax free childcare" can be used with the funded hours.
It's a minefield!

So do I need to be back at work/annual leave by 1st April? Or does it have to be before that? I thought I read something saying you need to be back working for a period before hand?

So do I need to be back at work/annual leave by 1st April? Or does it have to be before that? I thought I read something saying you need to be back working for a period before hand?

Sorry for my late reply. From memory it'll be fine - you're on maternity leave and then annual leave so you've never left work. You shouldn't have an issue qualifying when the baby is old enough x

I found this website very helpful:

https://beststartinlife.gov.uk/childcare-early-years-education/15-and-30-hours-support/working-families/eligibility/

@BrightBear1682 30th April at the latest for that term.

Maternity leave counts as working it’s different to having to find/start work to qualify.