Hi everyone, hoping someone can help me understand childcare support because I’m getting a bit confused.
I’m a single parent on Universal Credit and I currently work around 15 hours a week. My child is due to start nursery in September and turns two at the end of September.
I don’t think I qualify for the 30 funded hours / tax-free childcare because my earnings are too low, so I’m trying to work out what support I can get.
I’ve heard about the 15 funded hours from the term after they turn two, but because my child starts nursery in September and doesn’t turn two until the end of that month, I’m unsure what happens in the meantime.
Can anyone explain: 1. Can I claim nursery costs back through Universal Credit before the funded hours start? 2. Is there anything separate I need to apply for now? 3. When would the 15 funded hours actually begin if they turn two at the end of September? 4. Is tax-free childcare separate from Universal Credit, and can you get both?
Just trying to plan ahead and budget properly. Thank you 🙂