UK-wide
Tax-Free Childcare (TFC)
Last verified: 3 October 2026. We check the official source every night. How we verify.
An HMRC scheme where you pay into an online account for registered childcare and the government adds a contribution, up to a yearly cap. It is not a DWP benefit and usually cannot be combined with Universal Credit childcare costs for the same costs.
How much you could get
For every £8 you pay in, the government adds £2, up to a yearly cap per child (higher for disabled children). Confirm the live cap on GOV.UK.
Check the current amount on the official page.
Who can claim
You usually need to be working, meet income and hours tests (with exceptions), and have a child in the eligible age range. Couples usually both need to work. You must use a provider signed up to the scheme.
Eligibility conditions
These are the structured conditions Benefit Badger uses in the eligibility check. They are a guide, not a decision.
- You live in the UK.
- You are responsible for a child.
- You are working.
Check if Tax-Free Childcare may apply to you
It usually takes about 5 minutes. You do not need to create an account. This is guidance, not a government decision.
When it may not apply
If you already get Universal Credit help with childcare costs, you normally have to choose. People earning above the scheme’s income cap, or not working enough hours, will not qualify. Confirm live thresholds on GOV.UK.
Where you live
Tax-Free Childcare is available UK-wide, but the claim route can still differ across nations.
Browse benefits in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, or the A–Z list.
How to claim
- Open a Tax-Free Childcare account on GOV.UK. This is an HMRC scheme, not a DWP benefit. You pay into an online account and the government adds a contribution, within caps. Official page
- You cannot usually get this and Universal Credit childcare costs for the same costs. The official page explains the choice. Check which is worth more before you switch.
- Both parents in a couple usually need to work enough hours. Income and hours tests apply, with exceptions. GOV.UK has the live rules and a childcare calculator.
- Use the account only with registered providers who accept it. The childcare provider must be signed up. That is arranged between you, HMRC and the provider — not through Benefit Badger.
Official sources
- Tax-Free Childcare — GOV.UK (primary source)
Related benefits
See all children and pregnancy benefits.
Source: HM Revenue & Customs. This page is guidance from an independent service, not a government decision. Only the relevant government department can confirm eligibility and make a payment.
Check if this may apply to you
It usually takes about 5 minutes. You do not need to create an account. This is guidance, not a government decision.