The cost of childcare in Ireland is a big concern for many families, as they struggle to afford it amidst the cost of living crisis.
However, there is a lesser known social welfare payment that Irish parents are entitled to, worth up to €252 a month.
The Universal Subsidy is a childcare subsidy for children in Tusla-registered childcare who are between six months and 15 years old.
The subsidy has been increased from €0.50 per hour to €1.40 per hour from January 2023, and is deducted from the overall bill parents get from their childcare provider.
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Here's everything you need to know:
How much is the Universal Childcare Subsidy?
The universal childcare subsidy is paid at €1.40 an hour up to a maximum of 45 hours a week to all eligible children.
You can use the subsidy calculator, found here, to help work out how much money you will receive.
The rate you qualify for may vary. For example, parents with children attending childcare for 20 hours a week will get €28 a week, whereas, someone who’s child is attending childcare for 45 hours a week will get €63.
How to qualify for the Universal Childcare Subsidy?
A child must be over six months but under 15 years of age. The childcare provider must be registered with Tusla and in a contract with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to offer the Universal Subsidy.
While the subsidy is not means-tested, you cannot get it and an income assessed subsidy at the same time. You must choose which subsidy is of greatest benefit to you.
How to apply for the Universal Childcare Subsidy?
To apply for the universal subsidy, you need to use the website ncs.gov.ie.
Make sure to have a verified MyGovID account and the date of birth and Personal Public Service (PPS) number for each child you are applying for.
You can also apply by post by contacting the Parent Support Centre, with more details found here.
The subsidy will be paid directly to your childcare provider and will be deducted from the cost of your childcare.
You can find more information on this subsidy here.
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