Tax free childcare - if you become ineligible does the top up come off your balance?

[Althenameshavegone]

Hi, I’m possibly being a bit thick here, but we currently benefit from the tax free childcare scheme but I’m considering taking a career break which would make me ineligible as I wouldn’t be earning enough. Is it possible to maximise our payments into the scheme while I’m earning a salary, and then use that balance to pay future nursery fees, or would the government top up be removed from our balance once I become ineligible?

The topup is not removed, as there is a grace period.
The max topup per 3 month period is £500 per child. So you won't be able to put lots in.

Look at when your reconfirmation period starts, and work out when you won't meet the criteria to reconfirm. Then you could max out each reconfirmation period before that. So £2000 in, getting £500 of topup, per 3 month period.

Thanks!

@Althenameshavegone sorry I know this is an old thread but did you get a definite answer on this?