Skip to main content
A window with a poster showing that says 'NEED TO CLAIM UNIVERSAL CREDIT?'
Updated on 6 April 2026

Universal credit: childcare support

Universal credit is a means-tested benefit providing help with living costs for people who are in or  out of work. Universal credit is made up of several different elements including a childcare element. If you meet the qualifying rules, then you may be able to claim up to 85% of your ...

5 hands raised, on each hand a smiley face is painted on the palm with the fingers each painted a different colour.
Updated on 6 April 2026

Free childcare places

You can get some free childcare places in most parts of the UK, although the arrangements are different across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. You can contact your local Family Information Service for more information about free childcare hours and childcare in your area.

An employer pointing to a section of a hologram. the hologram shows many cogs interlinking, each with a different icon on the cog. The employer is pointing to the cog that says 'EMPLOYEE BENEFITS'.
Updated on 6 April 2026

Employer-supported childcare

Some employers offer employer-supported childcare to help towards the costs of qualifying childcare. It is up to your employer whether they decide to offer employer-supported childcare or not. There are three types of employer-supported childcare. 

A person using a calculator.
Updated on 6 April 2026

Calculating the transitional element

The tax credits system closed from 5 April 2025. Most tax credit claimants were invited to claim universal credit or pension credit before 5 April 2025. Those who received a migration notice or tax credit closure notice, may have qualified for transitional protection which can lead to an extra ...

A person looking at their smartphone, the screen shows the HMRC logo. 'HM REVENUE & CUSTOMS'.
Updated on 18 May 2026

Contacting HMRC about tax credits

The tax credits system closed on 5 April 2025, so no tax credit awards continue after that date. Most people will have been invited to claim either universal credit or pension credit. However, you may still need to contact HMRC to discuss your 2024/25 tax credits award, ongoing appeals and debt ...

Various folders in a pile, the top folder reads 'COMPLAINTS' on the spine.
Updated on 6 April 2026

Tax credits complaints

The tax credits system closed on 5 April 2025, so no tax credit awards continue after that date. Most people will have been invited to claim either universal credit or pension credit. However, you may still wish to make a formal complaint about an earlier tax credit award or things that have ...

Filters

Back to top