Reconfirmation of working families’ childcare code

Childcare Codes need to be reconfirmed every three months. Remember to log in to your childcare account on GOV.UK to check when your reconfirmation dates are, so that you can renew your code on time. You will also receive reminders from HMRC when it is due. 

If you are unable to renew your code by your reconfirmation deadline, you may be able to retain your child’s childcare place for a short period; this is known as a grace period. Your provider will be able to tell you if you are in a grace period.

How often do I need to log into my childcare account? 

Every 3 months to reconfirm that your details are up to date and that you remain eligible for the childcare entitlements for working parents and/or Tax-Free Childcare. 

Will I be reminded to reconfirm my details? 

Yes, you should receive a reminder: 

• the first email reminder is sent 4 weeks before reconfirmation is due
• a further reminder is sent 2 weeks before reconfirmation is due
• a notification is sent on the deadline date of reconfirmation to notify you that your eligibility for funded childcare for working parents has stopped and asking you to confirm your details as soon as possible 

This message will come from GOV.UK. Please make sure that your details are up to date. If you have not received a reminder, please check your junk mail folder. 

How long does reconfirmation usually take? 

In most cases, reconfirmation should only take a few minutes, but it may take longer if you need to provide further information. 

How do I log into my childcare account to reconfirm? 

You need to log into your childcare account on GOV.UK using your Government Gateway ID to reconfirm. The dates between which you should reconfirm will be displayed when you log in.

Eligible example

You and your partner both work (both earning less than £100,000).

You work 38 hours per week and your partner works 13 hours per week at £16 an hour, therefore earning £208.00 per week. This is more than the £195.36 threshold* and you are therefore eligible for the free childcare provision. 

*This threshold is based on national minimum wage of £12.21 for over 21s, correct as of April 2025.

Ineligible example

You are a single parent and receive incapacity benefit. Unfortunately, you are ineligible as the government only funds this entitlement when a parent is working.

However, if you are part of a couple in the above circumstance and your partner is working (and meets the working parent criteria) then you would be eligible.