30 hours free childcare - how long did it take for your code to be provided?

[R00tat00tt00t]

We’ve just completed the hmrc childcare options application for 30 hours free early years childcare as the deadline for applications is November 30th. On completing the application it stated that we should “hear from them” within 7 days but it’s unclear if that means the code will be received within 7 days? I’m now panicking as we have to provide nursery with the code by 30/11 in order to get the free hours starting January. Do you think we’ve left it too late? If you’ve applied recently how quickly did you receive your code? I’m aware there were a lot of delays around the launch in September but had presumed/hoped these were sorted now. Any advice greatly appreciated.

I did mine online yesterday and got the code almost immediately. Have you checked your messages on the site? That's where my code was.

I applied in the spring as part of the trial and I would say that unfortunately, it took about 6-8 weeks to get the code. I did it plenty early so it wasn't an issue, but yes, I would be surprised if you heard from them by next week to be honest.

Thanks folks. No code today. Will give it til Tuesday then ring somewhere to ask how long it's likely to be. Really annoyed with myself for not registering sooner. Could be an expensive mistake.

Shit thanks for the heads up on this. Better do it myself!

It's been hit and miss for our parents
Some get a code straight away and others have had to wait weeks
If you can you are better ringing and speaking to someone

The deadline for obtaining an eligible 30 hour code to use next term is 31/12 /2017. It sounds like it is your nursery setting an earlier deadline for their administration purposes.

That's interesting ThinkingitThrough16. I wonder if it is nursery dictating this then where would we stand if we get the code after 30/11 but before the official deadline you mention. Are they legally obliged to honour the 30 hours or is it at their discretion? They're probably trying to complete the invoices for January well in advance.

Some local authorities are setting an earlier deadline or they won't make payments. Your nursery is probably following their deadline and does not have to offer a space after this deadline, even it is within HMRC dates.

The 30 November deadline is set by the government
It's the deadline to apply for the code, possibly the nursery has misinterpreted this but on past experience it's not a bad idea to get parents to apply early

Have you checked your messages on the childcare choices website? My code came through straight away. I think it's linked to your National Insurance number though so if you are starting a new job or returning to work so don't meet the criteria now but will once you have your first pay packet this will delay your code.

We applied last week but still no code. We're both working and have been for many years so no breaks in work etc. DH called them today as he applied on our behalf and was told that it's pending. Apparently loads of applications as getting close to deadline. If we haven't heard anything by Friday then we can chase it up but this takes us past nursery deadline. Really annoying as it would appear some people are getting codes instantly.

If you don't mind me asking, When did you apply SkiYesPlease?

I applied on the 21st November thinking I had given myself time but still no code. I have called them twice and they have said that they can see my application is being processed but as it takes at least 10 days and they cant do anything until 10 days has passed. So I will be ringing again tomorrow but I am beyond frustrated.

Update for anyone interested or who may be in the same panic stricken state as me.
Still no code from hmrc so spoke with finance at nursery and they say that the 30/11 deadline they set was purely for admin purposes and that the hmrc deadline of 31/12 still stands. As long as we have proof of application before hmrc deadline then any overpayment can be backdated/reimbursed. Hope this is helpful.