Childcare Vouchers Overview

Quick over view of childcare vouchers:

Childcare vouchers are a benefit scheme offered by employers, allowing you to take part of your salary in vouchers.

These vouchers are then accepted by registered or approved childcare, enabling you to put money towards childcare costs.

No tax or National Insurance (NI) is charged on the part of the salary you take in childcare vouchers, meaning you could save up to £915 - £1,195 per year.

Your partner may also claim, meaning potential savings of £1,830-£2,390 between the two you.

The amount of vouchers you can receive is capped at £55 per week (£243 per calendar month)

They can be used for childcare up to the age of 16.

You must be either the parent or step-parent of the child, or have legal guardian responsibility, in order to qualify. 

The vouchers must be used for registered or approved childcare.

Speak to your employer about their childcare voucher scheme, or talk to them about starting a scheme. There are numerous voucher companies that can help with set-up administration.

Your employer may have a scheme set up already with one of the voucher provider companies, who can advise further on how to pay for your childcare.

If claiming for Working Tax Credit, it is advisable to speak to the Working Tax Credit helpline on 0845 300 3900 before applying for childcare vouchers.

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