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Apply for working parent entitlement for foster children

To apply for the working parent entitlement, you will need to talk to your social worker. They must complete a separate form before an eligibility check. This is not completed through HMRC.

If they aren't aware of the application process, ask them to contact us. Email kentcfis@theeducationpeople.org for further advice.

Fostering a child from outside of Kent? Contact the supervising social worker from that local authority. You can apply through them for the funding.

If the child is in a foster to adopt placement, pending a court process to finalise the placement, you should apply via GOV.UK. See the relevant age group parent guide for more information.

When to apply

You must apply for and receive your new eligibility code for the working parent entitlement before the start of the academic period. You need to apply for and have received your code by:

  • 31 August to start claiming the entitlement in September
  • 31 December to start claiming the entitlement in January
  • 31 March to start claiming the entitlement in April.

If you apply after these dates or get your code after these dates, you will be issued with a start date to access these funded hours the following term

If you have any questions about the application process, speak to your social worker.

What you need to apply

To complete the application, you will need to provide details including but not limited to:

  • name and address
  • date of birth
  • National Insurance Number
  • employment details and income

Your childcare provider will check the code is valid using the government’s eligibility checking system. If your code is valid for the term, they will be able to claim the funding for you as long as your child is in attendance in headcount week and you have signed a parental declaration form with them.

Parental declaration form

A parental declaration form tells your childcare provider and us that you wish to claim the funding with them for the full term. Make sure that you read through this form prior to signing. If you have any questions about this form, speak to your childcare provider.