UK Tax-Free Childcare Calculator
For every £8 you put in, the government adds £2 — up to £2,000/year per child.
Tax-Free Childcare gives 20% top-up on contributions, capped at £2,000/year per child (£10,000 spend) or £4,000 for disabled children.
Worked examples
£8,000/yr childcare: pay £6,400, government adds £1,600.
£10,000+ /yr: capped at £2,000 government top-up.
Sources:
gov.uk Tax-Free Childcare
· retrieved 2026-05-12.
Frequently asked questions
Who qualifies?
Both parents must work (or single parent). Earnings between minimum wage threshold and £100,000 per parent. Most other circumstances eligible.
Compatible with childcare vouchers?
No — vouchers are closed to new entrants. Existing scheme members must choose between TFC and vouchers.