# Childcare code

**Childcare code.** The 11-digit eligibility code you get from HMRC for working-parent funded hours, which you give to your nursery

When you apply for Free Childcare for Working Parents through your childcare account, HMRC checks your eligibility and, if you qualify, gives you an 11-digit code. Your nursery checks it with the council before your funded hours can start. You must get the code before the term you want it for: by 31 December for January, 31 March for April or 31 August for September. You also have to reconfirm your details every 3 months, or the code lapses after a grace period. Our [start date tool](/funded-hours-start-date) shows the deadlines.

Page: https://toddly.co.uk/glossary/childcare-code

- [Funded hours start date](https://toddly.co.uk/funded-hours-start-date)
- [30 funded hours from 9 months](https://toddly.co.uk/guides/30-hours-from-9-months)