Do You Need Reconfirmation Of Your Eligibility For Childcare?

If you are concerned about your reconfirmation of eligibility for childcare, you will find detailed guidance through the following article as we discuss whether or not you need to reconfirm your eligibility, the process involved as well as the potential consequences of missing a deadline

Do You Need Reconfirmation Of Your Eligibility For Childcare?

Yes, in most cases, you will need to reconfirm your eligibility for childcare. This is usually done through a process which involves providing updated information to the relevant authorities to ensure that you still meet the eligibility criteria for the childcare support you are receiving.

Whether you are receiving Tax-Free Childcare or 30 hours of free childcare, you are required to check and reconfirm your details with the DWP every 3 months so that you can continue receiving the benefit.

Reconfirmation for eligibility for childcare can be done as your “reconfirmation window” is open. This is usually four weeks before your reconfirmation date. You can expect to receive a letter or a text message from the DWP regarding your reconfirmation. Even if you don’t get one, you can check your reconfirmation status by logging into your childcare account online. 

The exact process for reconfirmation will depend on the type of childcare support you are receiving and the specific rules and regulations that apply to your situation. 

However, in general, you can expect to be asked to provide updated information about your income, employment status, and family circumstances on a regular basis to ensure that you still meet the eligibility criteria.

How Do You Reconfirm Your Eligibility For Childcare?

The process for reconfirmation of eligibility for childcare can vary depending on the type of childcare support you are receiving. However, in general, the process will involve providing updated information to the relevant authorities to confirm that you still meet the eligibility criteria.

Below is a summary of the steps involved:

  • You should start by logging into your childcare account.
  • Once you’ve logged in, you should proceed to the “secure messages” section and check the “reconfirmation” section to find your reconfirmation date.
  • If your circumstances haven’t changed, you can simply tick a box to confirm this and your existing code will be extended for another 3 months.
  • If your circumstances have changed, you will need to amend and resubmit your updated details and await confirmation of your eligibility.
  • If your original application was conducted over the phone, you will need to call the HMRC Customer Service helpline at 0300 123 4097 to reconfirm your eligibility.
  • If you were assigned a temporary code, you will need to complete a new application using your childcare service account so that a permanent code is assigned to you. 
  • Then you need to click on the “continue” button to view your reconfirmation summary which mentions the dates on which you reconfirmed your eligibility earlier.
  • If these are correct and updated, you should proceed to the bottom of the page, read the declaration and click on the “accept and send” button.
  • Once you see the “thank you” screen, it means that your reconfirmation has been updated.

What Happens If You Miss The Deadline For Reconfirmation Of Eligibility For Childcare?

If you miss the deadline for reconfirmation of eligibility for childcare but remain eligible and are able to update your details within the next entitlement period, you will continue receiving the support you were getting.

However, it is important to reconfirm on time. If your child receives 30 hours of childcare, your child’s place will remain valid for a short period of time. This is called the “grace period”. You will need to inform your childcare provider that you’ve missed the reconfirmation date.

On the other hand, if you are using Tax-Free Childcare and you miss your reconfirmation date, your account will become “pay-only”. This means that while you can still deposit money and pay your childcare provider, you will not receive the Government contribution for it.

If you’ve missed your deadline for reconfirmation of eligibility for childcare, you should email the authorities at childcare.taxfree@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk and seek their guidance on how to proceed further.

Conclusion:

Reconfirmation of your eligibility for childcare is essential to avoid the risk of losing your childcare support. You should stay on top of the reconfirmation process and provide any requested information in a timely and accurate manner. If you are having difficulty reconfirming your eligibility or have any questions or concerns about the process, it’s a good idea to contact the relevant authorities.

References:

Reconfirm your eligibility for 30 hours of funded childcare and/or Tax-Free Childcare – Dorset Council

Sign in to your childcare account – GOV.UK

Understanding the childcare service: a guide for parents