30 Hours Free Childcare Applying Guide

The Government is offering 30 hours of funded childcare to help working parents manage the cost of childcare. It’s designed to help you manage childcare costs, so every child gets the very best start in life. 

Here's a simple step-by-step guide to help you get started. 

What Is It? 

If you're eligible, you could receive: 

• 30 hours of funded childcare per week 
• For 38 weeks (term time) each year 
• For children aged 9 months and up 

Am I Eligible?  

You can apply if all of the following apply: 

• You live in England 
• Your child is aged 9 months or older 
• You (and your partner, if you have one): 
  • Work at least 16 hours a week at minimum wage 
  • Earn less than £100,000 a year each 
  • OR are on sick leave or parental leave 

When Should I Apply? 

To start funding in the next term, you must apply before the deadlines below: 

Term Starts - Apply By 

1st September - 31st August 

1st January - 31st December 

1st April - 31st March 

You must have your code before the term starts—so apply early! 

How to Apply? 

1. Go to www.childcarechoices.gov.uk  
2. Provide your details (you’ll need your National Insurance number and your child’s passport or birth certificate) 
3. Apply for eligibility code (you’ll need your national insurance number) 
4. Apply for your code (it can take up to 7 days to arrive by email) 
5. Send your code to Busy Bees - here.

Include your: 

• Full name 
• Date of birth 
• National Insurance number 
• Eligibility code

Remember to Reconfirm 

Once you have your code, you’ll need to reconfirm your details every 3 months. 

Just log back into your GOV.UK childcare account—they’ll send you reminders!

Need Help or Have Questions? 

Visit our Funding Page for more information, or read our detailed Funding Guide. 

Here you will also find details on our 15 hours funding for universal support. This includes: 

• 15 hours of government-funded childcare per week for 2-year-olds 
• 15 hours per week for 3-year-olds 

Ready to take the next step? Find your nearest Busy Bees Nursery!