Tax-free childcare is a new government scheme to help working parents with the cost of childcare. From early 2017, parents will be able to open an online account, which they can use to pay for childcare from a registered provider.

During September and October 2016, the Government will send letters to registered childcare providers across the UK. These letters will invite childcare providers to sign-up online for Tax-Free Childcare.  

Providers will be able to sign-up as soon as they receive their invitation. They will then appear on HMRCs new digital tool, which lets parents search for childcare providers signed up for Tax-Free Childcare. This tool will be available from early 2017.

Information has been published on gov.uk to inform childcare providers about the scheme and what they need to know in order to join.

Tax-Free Childcare: what childcare providers should know 

Additional information has also been published for parents using childcare providers.

Tax-Free Childcare: ten things parents should know