Funded childcare for foster carers

3. When to apply

We recommend that you apply in good time to get your code.

If you do not receive your code by the dates below, you cannot access your extra hours until the start of the next term.

15 hours for 9 to 23 months

You can apply for your eligibility code when your foster child reaches 23 weeks old.

Your foster child can start in their childcare place the term after they reach 9 months old, providing you have received a valid eligibility code.

Child turns 9 months	You can access a place from	Must have eligibility code by
1 September to 31 December	Term starting on or after 1 January	31 December
1 January to 31 March	Term starting on or after 1 April	31 March
1 April to 31 August	Term starting on or after 1 September	31 August

30 hours for 3 and 4 year olds

You can apply for your eligibility code up to 16 weeks before your foster child's 3rd birthday.

Your foster child can start accessing the extra hours from the term after their 3rd birthday, providing you have received a valid eligibility code.

Child's birthday	When you can access a place	Must have eligibility code by
1 January to 31 March	1 April	31 March
1 April to 31 August	1 September	31 August
1 September to 31 December	1 January	31 December