Calculate how to maximize your childcare savings with our free 15 Hours Childcare Calculator. Learn eligibility rules, calculate stretched hours, and optimize your family’s childcare plan.
15 Hours Free Childcare Calculator
Eligibility Criteria
- Universal for 3-4 year olds
- Working parents (16+ hrs/week) for under 3s
- Maximum £100k individual income
- National Minimum Wage requirement
What Is the 15 Hours Free Childcare Scheme?
The UK government’s 15 Hours Free Childcare initiative provides working parents with 570 hours of free childcare annually (15 hours/week × 38 weeks). Designed to support families with children aged 3-4 years (and some under 3), this scheme helps balance work and childcare costs. Our calculator simplifies complex eligibility rules and helps you:
- ✅ Check qualification status in seconds
- 📅 Calculate stretched hours for flexible scheduling
- 💷 Estimate annual savings
- 📱 Plan around work commitments
How the 15 Hours Free Childcare Calculator Works?
Step 1: Input Your Details
- Number of Weeks
Choose between:
- 38 Weeks: Standard term-time (15 hrs/week)
- 50/52 Weeks: Stretched hours (fewer hours/week)
- Household Income
Enter combined annual income (max £100k per parent) - Work Status
Select:
- Both parents working 16+ hrs/week
- Single parent working 16+ hrs/week
- Not working
- Child’s Age
Choose between:
- Under 3 years (working parent requirement)
- 3-4 years (universal eligibility)
Step 2: Instant Calculation
The calculator checks:
- Age-Based Eligibility:
- Automatic 15 hours for 3-4 year olds
- Work/income checks for under-3s
- Income Limits:
- Max £100k individual income
- Work Requirements:
- 16+ hrs/week for under-3 eligibility
Step 3: Results Breakdown
- Eligibility Status: Immediate yes/no verdict
- Total Annual Hours: Base 570 hours + stretched options
- Weekly Breakdown:
- 38 weeks = 15 hrs/week
- 52 weeks ≈ 11 hrs/week
Key Features of Our Calculator
1. Stretched Hours Calculator
Convert term-time hours to year-round coverage:
570 annual hours ÷ Selected weeks = Weekly hours
Example:
- 52 weeks → 570 ÷ 52 ≈ 11 hours/week
2. Under-3 Eligibility Checker
For children aged 9 months-2 years:
- Both parents must work 16+ hrs/week
- Earn ≥ National Minimum Wage
- Individual income < £100k
3. Savings Estimator
Compare costs:
| Scenario | Weekly Cost (15 hrs) | Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Nursery | £75-£150 | £3,000-£6,000 |
| Childminder | £60-£100 | £2,400-£4,800 |
Who Qualifies for 15 Free Hours?
Universal Eligibility (3-4 Years)
All children receive 15 hours regardless of:
- Parental employment status
- Household income
- Immigration status
Targeted Support (Under 3 Years)
Working families must meet:
- Both parents work 16+ hrs/week (or single parent)
- Earn ≥ £8,630/year (National Minimum Wage)
- Individual income < £100k
How to Maximize Your 15 Hours
1. Combine with Tax-Free Childcare
Use your 15 hours alongside the Tax-Free Childcare Scheme for extra savings:
- Government adds £2 for every £8 you pay
- Save up to £500/child/quarter
2. Choose Stretched Hours
Opt for year-round coverage:
| Weeks | Weekly Hours | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 38 | 15 | Term-time workers |
| 52 | 11 | Full-year workers |
3. Compare Providers
Check Ofsted-registered options:
- Nurseries
- Childminders
- Preschools
FAQs: 15 Hours Free Childcare
Q: Can I get 15 hours if I’m unemployed?
A: Yes – but only for 3-4 year olds. Under-3s require working parents.
Q: What’s the difference between 15hrs and 30hrs?
A: 30 hours requires both parents working 16+ hrs/week (excluding universal 3-4yr 15hrs).
Q: Do I pay for meals/extras?
A: Providers can charge for:
- Meals
- Nappies
- Special activities
Q: How do I apply?
A: Through the GOV.UK Childcare Service.
Why Use Our Calculator?
✅ Instant Eligibility Check
✅ Custom Weekly/Hourly Breakdown
✅ Mobile-Optimized Design
✅ No Personal Data Required
Try It Now →
Input your details above to start planning!
Note: This tool provides estimates only. Verify eligibility via GOV.UK.
