Families across Andover getting ready for their child’s first year of school this September could be missing out on thousands of pounds in childcare support.
With many parents now arranging wraparound care, holiday clubs, or childminders to cover school drop-offs and pick-ups, HMRC is reminding working families they could save up to £2,000 a year per child through the Tax-Free Childcare scheme.
Locally, schools across the Andover area will be welcoming new starters this autumn – and with that comes the juggling act of balancing work hours with school schedules. Whether it’s breakfast club, after-school sessions, or childcare during the school holidays, the cost can quickly add up.
That’s where Tax-Free Childcare can help. Myrtle Lloyd, Director General for Customer Services at HMRC, said:
“Now you know where your child is going to school, it’s a good time to get organised.“Tax-Free Childcare can make those childcare costs more manageable.”
What does it cover?
The scheme can be used for:
- Wraparound care before and after school
- Approved childminders
- Holiday clubs and activities
- Childcare for under-12s, or under-17s if the child has a disability
For every £8 paid into a Tax-Free Childcare account, the government adds £2 – up to £500 every three months, or £1,000 if your child has a disability.
That’s up to £2,000–£4,000 per year, per child, that local families in Andover could be claiming to reduce their childcare bills.
Who’s eligible?
- Parents must earn at least the National Minimum Wage for 16 hours a week
- You (and your partner, if applicable) must each earn less than £100,000 a year
- You must not receive Universal Credit or childcare vouchers
The scheme can also be used alongside free childcare hours, where eligible.
Once an account is open, funds can be used immediately or saved for later. Any unused money can be withdrawn at any time.
Local childcare providers across Andover and the Test Valley can also register to accept payments through the scheme, helping more families benefit.
To check eligibility and apply, visit www.gov.uk/tax-free-childcare.
