# How many free childcare hours can I get in 2026?

> Quick answer · Last updated 4 July 2026

Canonical HTML: https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/how-many-free-childcare-hours-2026/
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## In short

In England, all 3–4 year-olds get 15 hours free in term time. Working parents can claim 30 hours a week from 9 months to school age if each parent earns £196+ a week and under £100,000 adjusted net income.

Apply for an eligibility code on gov.uk/childcare-choices before each term and give it to your registered provider. Reconfirm every three months.

Tax-Free Childcare adds a 20% top-up on private payments — up to £2,000 per child per year — and can sit alongside funded hours for extra sessions or wraparound care.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have different funded-hours schemes. See our 30 hours free childcare guide and Tax-Free Childcare eligibility checker.

## Related

- [30 hours free childcare 2026](https://moneyguide.org.uk/family-life/30-hours-free-childcare-2026/)
- [Tax-Free Childcare guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk/family-life/tax-free-childcare-and-free-hours/)
- [Am I eligible for Tax-Free Childcare?](https://moneyguide.org.uk/eligible-for/tax-free-childcare/)

## Primary source

gov.uk/30-hours-free-childcare

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.