findacreche.ie

National Childcare Scheme (NCS) — A Guide for Irish Parents

Last updated: April 2026

Last verified against official sources: May 2026

The National Childcare Scheme (NCS) is the Irish government's main childcare subsidy programme. It helps reduce the cost of registered childcare for families with children aged from 24 weeks up to 15 years. This guide explains the two types of subsidy, who qualifies, and how to apply.

Subsidy rates and income thresholds are set by the government and may change. Always verify current figures at ncs.gov.ie before making decisions.

Two Types of NCS Subsidy

The NCS provides two kinds of subsidy, which can be combined if you are eligible for both.

Universal Subsidy

The universal subsidy is available to all families regardless of income. As of 2026, it is worth €2.14 per hour towards the cost of registered childcare. There is no means test and no employment requirement.

  • Available for children aged 24 weeks to 15 years
  • Up to 45 hours per week covered
  • Must be used with an NCS-registered provider

Income-Assessed Subsidy

Families whose income falls below the threshold may qualify for a higher, income-assessed subsidy on top of the universal rate. The subsidy amount depends on family income, child's age, number of children, and whether the child is in education.

  • Current upper income threshold: €60,000 per year
  • From September 2026: upper threshold rises to €68,000; lower threshold rises to €34,000 — an estimated 47,000 additional families will benefit
  • Use the NCS subsidy calculator to estimate your entitlement before applying

NCS and the ECCE Free Preschool Scheme

If your child is in the ECCE free preschool programme, they receive 15 free hours per week. The NCS can be used to cover the cost of childcare hours beyond those 15 free hours — for example, if you need full-day care.

You cannot claim NCS subsidy for the same hours that are covered by ECCE. The two schemes complement each other.

How to Apply

  1. Check if your provider is NCS-registered — You can only use the subsidy with registered providers. Search at ncs.gov.ie. You can also browse registered facilities on Find a Crèche.
  2. Use the subsidy calculator — Estimate what you are entitled to before applying, via the NCS website.
  3. Apply online via MyGovID — Go to ncs.gov.ie and log in with your MyGovID. You will need your child's PPS number and details of your chosen provider.
  4. Subsidy is paid directly to the provider — Once approved, the subsidy is deducted from your childcare bill. You pay only the balance.

NCS Parent Support Centre: 01 906 8530

Official Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the NCS alongside ECCE?

Yes. ECCE covers up to 15 free hours per week. NCS can be applied to any additional childcare hours beyond those 15 hours. You cannot claim NCS on the same hours that ECCE covers.

When does NCS eligibility start for my child?

The NCS universal subsidy starts when your child is 24 weeks old and continues until they reach 15 years of age (the year they turn 15 does not qualify).

What if my childcare provider is not NCS-registered?

You can only receive NCS funding at providers who are registered with the NCS. If your current provider is not registered, you should contact them to ask if they plan to register, or use the provider search on ncs.gov.ie to find a registered alternative.

Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only. Information may change over time. Always verify details directly with childcare providers and official government sources. This site is not affiliated with Tusla — Child and Family Agency or any government body.