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30 Hours Childcare for Working Families (England)
From September 2025, the working families offer expands from 15 to 30 funded hours per week for eligible parents—available from the term after your child turns 9 months until they start school.
Updated: 20 August 2025
What’s changing in September 2025?
Working parents in England can move from 15 to 30 funded hours a week (for 38 weeks a year). If you already have a 15‑hour code, reconfirm as usual—your code should work for 30 hours in September as long as you remain eligible and your provider confirms your new attendance pattern.
Who’s eligible?
You (and your partner, if you have one) usually qualify if you live and work in England and each expect to earn at least the minimum earnings over the next 3 months (roughly 16 hours/week at minimum wage), and each earn under £100,000 adjusted net income a year.
- £2,539 (aged 21+), £2,080 (18–20), or £1,570 (under 18 / apprentice) over 3 months.
- Eligibility also covers those starting a new job, on annual/sick leave, or on certain parental leave (see official guidance).
If you’re not eligible for the working offer, most 3–4 year‑olds still get the universal 15 funded hours.
When can your hours start?
From the term after your child turns 9 months:
| If my child turns 9 months between… | Entitlement can start from… |
|---|---|
| 1 January – 31 March | Term starting on or after 1 April |
| 1 April – 31 August | Term starting on or after 1 September |
| 1 September – 31 December | Term starting on or after 1 January |
What’s covered (and what isn’t)?
Funding covers the hours only. You may be charged for optional extras like meals, nappies, additional hours, or trips. These charges must not be a condition of taking a funded place—ask your provider about alternatives.
You cannot use this offer for a nanny, home carer, or childcare by a relative.
How to apply (and keep it active)
- Apply online: use the GOV.UK Childcare Service when your child is approaching 9 months (you can apply up to ~16 weeks ahead).
- Give your code to your provider and agree an attendance pattern.
- Reconfirm every 3 months in your childcare account—even if you haven’t started using the hours yet.
Tips
- Apply early: providers fill up quickly—contact your preferred nursery/childminder as soon as you can.
- Plan for extras: check any meal, consumables or activity charges in advance.
- Combine support: some families can use 30 hours alongside other schemes (e.g., Tax‑Free Childcare).
