Universal Credit(childcare element)-Going back to work - Family support directory
When support is available
You can get help with costs of registered childcare if you are in work, any hours, as long as the amount of childcare is not considered excessive. Couples usually have to be both in work, unless the non-working partner has limited capability for work or is temporarily absent from home. The childcare element can continue to be paid for childcare costs in the monthly assessment period after you have stopped work. The childcare element can continue to maintain childcare arrangements while you are on SMP, SSP or SSPP
Who qualifies
Childcare element of universal credit Help with 85% of registered childcare costs, up to a monthly limit payable of £1,031.88 for one child or £1,768.94 for two or more children.
More information
If you need help to pay for childcare costs in advance before you can start work, request a budgeting advance. If you are not entitled to UC because your income is too high, you may qualify for tax-free childcare instead – see www.childcarechoices.gov.uk
