This scheme exists only in Northern Ireland. If you already use Tax-Free Childcare, check you are getting both.
Quick facts
- Subsidy
- 15% off childcare costs
- Needs
- Tax-Free Childcare
- Tax-Free Childcare
- £2 added for every £8, up to £2,000 a child a year
- Disabled children
- Up to £4,000 a year
- Ages
- 11 or under (16 or under if disabled)
- Not with
- Universal Credit
What the subsidy does
The Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme aims to cut the childcare costs of eligible working parents by 15 per cent, for all qualifying children.
It works through Tax-Free Childcare. You have to be claiming Tax-Free Childcare to receive the subsidy.
Tax-Free Childcare, the part underneath
For every £8 you pay into a Tax-Free Childcare account, the government adds £2. That is up to £2,000 per child a year, or £4,000 for a disabled child.
It is for children aged 11 or under, or 16 or under if your child is disabled. Your childcare provider must be signed up to the scheme.
Who can get it — the full rules
- You and your partner, if you have one, are working, or on parental, sick or annual leave
- You each expect to earn at least the National Minimum Wage or Living Wage for 16 hours a week
- Neither of you earns over £100,000 a year
- Your childcare is approved, meaning registered with and inspected by a Health and Social Care Trust
Universal Credit claimants are not eligible for this subsidy. If you are on Universal Credit, you get help with childcare through Universal Credit instead.
Common questions
What is the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme?
A scheme that aims to cut eligible working parents' registered childcare costs by 15 per cent for all qualifying children.
Do I need Tax-Free Childcare to get the NI Childcare Subsidy?
Yes. You must be claiming Tax-Free Childcare to receive the subsidy.
Can I get the NI Childcare Subsidy on Universal Credit?
No. Universal Credit claimants are not eligible. Universal Credit has its own help with childcare costs.
How much does Tax-Free Childcare add?
£2 for every £8 you pay in, up to £2,000 per child a year, or £4,000 for a disabled child.