You must reconfirm your eligibility every 3 months from the date you applied to receive the entitlement. This also applies to Tax-Free Childcare.

How to reconfirm

If you applied online you must reconfirm your eligibility up to 4 weeks before your reconfirmation date by logging into your childcare service account and finding your reconfirmation date in the 'secure message' section. You should make a note of this date in case you don't receive the reminder from HMRC.

You will receive a reminder from HMRC by text or email 4 weeks, and then 2 weeks before the deadline to log into your childcare service account. Make sure you keep them informed of any changes to your contact details.

The reconfirmation process may be different for some. If your:

  • circumstances haven't changed you will need to tick a box to confirm this - you will not receive a new code as your existing one will get extended for 3 months more
  • circumstances have changed you must amend and resubmit your details - if your eligibility gets reconfirmed, your existing code will be extended for 3 months more
  • original application was made over the phone you need to call HMRC to reconfirm your eligibility on 0300 123 4097.

If you are no longer eligible

If you or your partner (if applicable) no longer meet the criteria, you will stop being eligible for this childcare entitlement.

There will be a grace period until the start of the next funded period to enable you to seek employment. If your circumstances change during the grace period, you can apply again and continue to use your entitlement.