Answers · UK 2025/26
Can parents claim Tax-Free Childcare in 2026/27?
Yes. Eligible parents can receive up to £2,000 per child per year (£4,000 for disabled children) through the Tax-Free Childcare scheme, topping up savings by 20%.
Full answer
Tax-Free Childcare is a government-backed savings account where for every £8 a parent pays in, the government adds £2, up to £2,000 per child per year (£4,000 for children with disabilities). To qualify in 2026/27, both parents (or the sole parent in a single-parent household) must be working and each earning at least £183.60 per week (equal to 16 hours at the National Living Wage of £12.71/hr) but no more than £100,000 adjusted net income per year. The scheme covers registered childcare providers including nurseries, childminders, and after-school clubs. Tax-Free Childcare cannot be used alongside the childcare element of Universal Credit or childcare vouchers. Applications are made via the Childcare Choices website.
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This answer is informational only and does not constitute financial, tax or legal advice. Figures are for the 2025/26 UK tax year. See our methodology and sources.