Childcare Cost Calculator
Calculate total monthly childcare costs and estimate how much support could reduce what you pay. Useful for budgeting and comparing support options.
Calculator
What this means
Childcare is a major household cost. Various UK schemes — including Tax-Free Childcare and Universal Credit childcare support — can reduce what you pay out of pocket.
How to use this calculator
- Enter your weekly or monthly childcare cost.
- Apply any free hours or support you receive.
- See your estimated out-of-pocket cost.
Worked example
Full-time nursery at £300 a week.
- £300 × about 4.33 weeks = roughly £1,300 a month.
- Free hours or Tax-Free Childcare can reduce this significantly.
Before support, that's around £1,300 a month per child.
Who this is for
- Working parents budgeting for nursery or a childminder.
- Parents weighing up a return to work.
- Anyone comparing childcare support schemes.
Childcare support that can cut the cost
Eligible working parents can use Tax-Free Childcare (the government adds £2 for every £8 you pay, up to £2,000 per child a year) and funded free hours, the amount of which depends on your child's age.
If you receive Universal Credit you may reclaim up to 85% of eligible childcare costs. You can't combine Tax-Free Childcare with Universal Credit childcare support, so compare which leaves you better off.
Frequently asked questions
Options include Tax-Free Childcare, Universal Credit childcare element, and free hours for younger children. Eligibility varies.
Enter the percentage of costs you expect to be covered by support. For Tax-Free Childcare this is up to 20% via the government top-up.
Enter the weekly cost per child. The calculator multiplies by the number of children you specify.
A scheme where the government tops up your childcare account by 25% — up to £2,000 per child per year — for eligible working parents earning under £100,000 each.
Compare your take-home pay against childcare plus commuting costs. Part-time hours, free hours and support schemes can tip the balance — and working maintains pension and NI contributions.
Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for guidance only. It is not financial, legal or tax advice. Always check official sources or speak to a qualified professional before making decisions.
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