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Help with childcare costs

Funded early education for 2 year olds (FEET)

What is FEET?

Funded early education for two year olds (FEET) gives your child up to 15 hours a week of funded childcare and early education during term time.

This helps them learn, play and get ready for school.

Find out about using your funded hours.

Who can get FEET

You might be able to get FEET if:

  • you get certain benefits or government support
  • your child gets Disability Living Allowance or has an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan
  • you’ve moved to the UK and can’t claim benefits
  • your child is looked after by ßÙßÇÂþ»­ or has left care

Getting FEET funding won't affect your benefits. If you qualify, the funding stays in place even if your situation changes.

When your child turns 3, they'll automatically gets 15 hours of funded childcare. There is no gap in support.

When to apply

You can apply for FEET in the funded period your child turns 2.

Child turns 2 Apply from Funding starts
1 April to 31 August April September
1 September to 31 December September January
1 January to 31 March 2023 January April

If your childcare provider is outside ßÙßÇÂþ»­, apply through their local council.

How to apply

The quickest way to apply for FEET is online on the parent portal.

  1. Create a ßÙßÇÂþ»­ account
    Register and log in to apply, get updates, check messages and update your details.
  2. Submit your application
    We'll check if you qualify using government records.
  3. Get your FEET ID number
    If you qualify, share your FEET ID with your childcare provider so they can claim the funding.

See our privacy notice for how we use, share and store your data.

Only use the parent portal to apply for 15 hours of funded childcare for 2-year-olds who get extra support.

What you'll need

  • your and your child's full details (name, address, contact)
  • your National Insurance Number or National Asylum Seeker Number
  • the reason you qualify
  • your details if you're helping someone apply

Unable to apply online?

If you need help applying or want a paper form:


After you apply

If you qualify, use the to find a provider offering FEET.

Complete a declaration form at your provider each funded period

If you don't qualify for FEET see for other options.


Other types of funded childcare

Only use the parent portal to apply for 15 hours of funded childcare for 2-year-olds who get extra support.

See Who can get funded childcare for other types how to apply for these.


Questions or concerns?

We know choosing childcare is a big decision. It’s normal to have questions or worries. Find answers to common questions and concerns about early education.

Early education: questions and concerns



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