Information

National Childcare Scheme

Understanding the National Childcare Scheme (NCS).

Information

National Childcare Scheme

Understanding the National Childcare Scheme (NCS).

Understanding the National Childcare Scheme (NCS)

The National Childcare Scheme (NCS) is designed to provide financial assistance to families for early learning and childcare expenses.
Eligible children range from 24 weeks to 15 years old.

There are two subsidy options available: (i) Universal Subsidy (ii) Income-Assessed Subsidy

Universal Subsidy

Available to all families, regardless of income, offering €2.14 per hour for up to 45 hours per week.

Income-Assessed Subsidy

This option is based on your family’s income, the age and educational stage of your child, and the number of children in your household. The subsidy amount varies according to these factors.

How to Apply for the National Childcare Scheme

Applications for the NCS can be submitted online here with a verified MyGovID. For assistance with the application process, refer to our online Application Guide.

If you prefer, you can request a postal application by contacting the Parent Support Centre at 01 906 8530, available Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm.

Frequently Asked Questions – National Childcare Scheme

Below you will find a list of frequently asked questions about the the National Childcare Scheme which should assist you in your application.

What Subsidy can I Apply For?

Families with children under 15 can apply for two types of subsidies:

- Universal Subsidy: Available to all, offering €2.14/hour or up to €96.30/week for childcare costs, without means testing.
- Income Assessed Subsidy: Amount varies based on family income, children’s ages, and educational stages. If your assessed income is low, you might benefit more from the Universal Subsidy depending on your childcare hours. Contact the Parent Support Centre for details.

If your family income exceeds €60,000, you’ll automatically qualify for a subsidy at the Universal rate without needing to reapply. The Universal Subsidy may be more advantageous if you need more childcare hours.

Do I have to be in Employment to Apply for the NCS?

Both subsidies are accessible even if you’re not employed. Your eligibility for subsidized childcare hours depends on your (and your partner’s) employment, study, or training status:

- Up to 45 hours if working, studying, or training.
- Up to 20 hours if not.

Work encompasses part-time, casual jobs, and certain schemes. Qualifying studies include courses on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). Further Education and Training (FET) options are also available for those over 16, covering apprenticeships, traineeships, and more, available through various providers including SOLAS’ eCollege, at levels one to six on the NFQ.

How do I Receive the Subsidy?

The subsidy is paid directly to your chosen childcare provider after your application is approved and you’ve received a unique CHICK code. This code, along with your child’s details, is used by the provider to register your childcare hours. You’ll confirm these details, and the subsidy is then paid to the provider by the Department on your behalf. The subsidy starts once your CHICK is registered and confirmed.

What is a CHICK Code?

Once your NCS application is approved, you will receive a CHICK (Childcare Identifier Code Key) number which you must then give to your chosen childcare provider.

How does the NCS Reduce my Childcare Costs?

The National Childcare Scheme’s flexible approach accommodates diverse family needs by providing subsidies as an hourly rate for a set number of weekly hours. The subsidy adjusts throughout the year based on your child’s age or educational stage. You and your provider will agree on the necessary childcare hours, applying your hourly subsidy to these hours. If you require more hours than the scheme covers, you’ll pay the difference. The subsidy reduces your overall childcare costs by being deducted from the provider’s fees.

Summary