Tax-Free Childcare has now opened to all remaining eligible families.
The new scheme for parents whose youngest child is under 12, aims to help working parents with the cost of childcare.
The scheme could save parents thousands of pounds each year. For every £8 parents pay into their childcare account, the government will add an extra £2, up to £2,000 per child per year.
The money can go towards a whole range of regulated childcare, including nurseries, childminders, after-school clubs and holiday clubs.
The scheme has been gradually rolled out across the UK by HM Revenue and Customs since April 2017.
Nicole, a mum of twins from Greater London, who uses Tax-Free Childcare, said, “I was concerned about the cost of childcare, because I don’t get any other support, and I’m a single mum with 15-month-old twins.”
“Tax-Free Childcare has taken a big burden off my shoulders.”
“It’s massively helped me: the extra money makes a huge difference, and I find the system really easy to use.”
“It allows me to comfortably work full time, knowing that my children are being well looked after.”
Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Elizabeth Truss said, “Tax-Free Childcare will cut thousands of pounds from childcare bills and is good news for working parents.”
“More parents will be able to work if they want to and this demonstrates our commitment to helping families with the cost of living.”
“All eligible parents with children under 12 can now apply through Childcare Choices and should take advantage of the available support.”
Parents, including the self-employed, can apply online for Tax-Free Childcare by visiting Childcare Choices. Parents can also access the government’s childcare calculator through Childcare Choices, which helps parents to choose which government support is best for them.
