Estimate your NCS subsidy

The National Childcare Scheme pays part of your childcare bill directly to your provider. Get a rough weekly figure here; the official assessment is at ncs.gov.ie.

Child's age group

Under 1 1–2 years 3 years, not yet in school School age

Net family income (per year, €) After tax, PRSI and USC. Optional. Leave blank for the universal rate everyone gets. Children under 15 in the family 2+ children earns a Multiple Child Discount off your reckonable income. Paid childcare hours per week Parent(s) working, studying or training

Affects the weekly hours cap: 45h if yes, 20h if no.

How the estimate works

Every child aged 6 months to 15 gets a flat €2.14/hour universal subsidy, whatever the family income. Families with reckonable income under €68,000 can qualify for an income-assessed rate of up to €5.10/hour, tapering down to the universal rate, with higher maximums for younger children. Hours are capped weekly depending on parental work or study.

Reckonable income is net income (after tax, PRSI, USC) minus allowable deductions; including a Multiple Child Discount of €5,500 for two children or €11,000 for three or more.

ECCE covers a separate free session; see the eligibility checker and funding guide.