Childcare Subsidy
Childcare Subsidy is a payment that helps families with the cost of pre-school childcare.
Who can get it
You may get a Childcare Subsidy if you are:
- the main carer of a dependent child
- a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident.
You should also normally live in New Zealand and intend to stay here.
It also depends on how much you and your spouse or partner earn.
The child must be:
- aged under five years old (or under six years if you get a Child Disability Allowance for them)
- attending an early childhood programme for three or more hours a week.
A Childcare Subsidy is normally paid for up to nine hours of childcare a week. In some situations you may be able to get up to 50 hours a week. We can tell you about these situations when you contact us.
If you are claiming 20 Hours Early Childhood Education you can’t get Childcare Subsidy for those hours.
This information is a guide only. Please contact us to talk about your individual circumstances.
For more information
If you'd like more information please download our brochure:
Help with childcare costs (PDF 270.83KB)
A guide for parents and caregivers.
For more detail about the Childcare Subsidy, please go to our:
How to apply
Contact us to talk about your circumstances and we’ll explain how to apply. We’ll normally arrange a meeting with you and will tell you what you need to bring.
Childcare & OSCAR Subsidy Application Form (PDF 237.6KB)
Complete this form to apply for the Childcare & OSCAR subsidy.
Childcare & OSCAR Subsidy - Change of Circumstances form (PDF 87.24KB)
If you are receiving childcare and OSCAR assistance, you must tell us straight away any changes which could affect your payment.
OSCAR Subsidy - Additional school holiday programme (PDF 74.88KB)
Complete this form if your child is attending more than one programme during the school holidays.
How long do I have to complete my application?
You have 20 working days from when you first contacted us. You'll need to provide us with any supporting documentation required for your application within this time. If you don't do this, you may have to reapply.
If you can't complete your application within 20 working days for any reason, please contact us.