The National Childcare Scheme (NCS) is the single biggest saving most Irish families make on childcare. Here's how to actually apply, step by step.
Step 1 — Get your child's PPS number
You'll get a PPS number automatically for babies born in Ireland, usually within 4–6 weeks of birth. If you don't have one, apply through mywelfare.ie.
Step 2 — Create a MyGovID account
You need a verified MyGovID (not the basic one) to apply. It takes about 10 minutes and needs your PPS number, phone, and a photo ID.
Step 3 — Apply on ncs.gov.ie
Log in with your MyGovID at ncs.gov.ie. Choose between the universal subsidy (no income check) or the income-assessed subsidy (higher amount, needs Revenue data).
Step 4 — Get your CHICK number
Once approved you'll get a CHICK (Childcare Identifier Code Key). It looks like a short letter-and-number string.
Step 5 — Give your CHICK to your childcare provider
Your creche or Tusla-registered childminder enters the CHICK on the NCS portal. The subsidy is deducted from your invoice from that date forward.
Universal subsidy
€2.14 per hour, up to 45 hours a week. Every family qualifies — there is no means test.
Income-assessed subsidy
If reckonable household income is under €60,000, you can get a higher hourly rate on top of the universal. The lowest income band can hit around €5.10/hour in 2025.
Maximum hours per week
45 hours if both parents work/study; 20 hours otherwise.
Which providers qualify?
Any Tusla-registered service with an NCS contract — that's virtually every creche and a growing share of childminders. Read our childminder vs creche guide if you're still deciding.
Can you use NCS with a childminder?
Yes, provided the childminder is Tusla-registered.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying with a basic (not verified) MyGovID — it'll be rejected.
- Forgetting to renew each year — awards run for 12 months.
- Assuming the subsidy backdates — it starts from your CHICK approval date.
How long does it take?
Most universal applications are approved within a few days. Income-assessed can take 1–2 weeks if Revenue data pulls automatically, longer if not.
Use the Crechely cost calculator to see what you'll actually pay after NCS and ECCE.