National Childcare Scheme (NCS)

The National Childcare Scheme (NCS) is a new scheme that provides financial support to help parents to meet the costs of childcare.

The National Childcare Scheme provides 2 types of childcare subsidy for children over 6 months of age:

• A universal subsidy for children under 3. Children over 3 who have not yet qualified for the ECCE are also eligible. It is not means tested.
• An income-assessed subsidy for children up to 15. It is means tested.

You must apply for the subsidy, but it is paid directly to your childcare provider. Your provider then will subtract your subsidy from your childcare bill.

You can apply online at ncs.gov.ie.

Further information can be obtained at https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/education/pre_school_education_and_childcare/national_childcare_scheme.html