The universal element of the Affordable Childcare Scheme will be available to all families with children between the age of 6 months and 36 months (or until the child qualifies for the free pre-school programme if later than 36 months), who are attending a childcare provider who is registered with Tusla initially, including both centre-based childcare providers (e.g. crèches, preschools and daycare centres) and child-minders.
Under the scheme, there will be no requirement to avail of a minimum number of subsidised hours or weeks. Subject to the terms of the scheme, including the maximum subsidised hours per week, the universal subsidy will be payable for the number of hours and weeks agreed between the parent and childcare provider. The universal subsidy is paid at a rate of €0.50 per hour of childcare.
If one household (''Household A'') pays €7,200 per year on a full time care place (30 hours per week, for 36 weeks per year), this household be eligible for the maximum rate of €540 i.e. 30hrs x.50 cent per hr =€15 per week x36weeks = €540
If one household (''Household B'') pays the same amount on childcare per year as Household A of €7,200 per year but for a part time care place (15 hours per day, for 36 weeks per year), this household be eligible for the maximum rate of €270 i.e. 15hrs x.50 cent per hr =€7.5 per week x36weeks = €270.
