Childcare is one of the biggest expenses for working parents in Ireland. While there's no direct tax relief on childcare fees, there are several ways to reduce your overall tax burden as a parent. Understanding these options—and combining them with other reliefs—can result in significant savings.
Our specialists help families maximise their tax position. Here's what you need to know about childcare and tax in Ireland.
📊 Family Tax Benefits
- NCS subsidy: Reduces childcare costs directly
- Home Carer Credit: €1,950 for stay-home carers
- SPCCC: €1,900 for single parent primary carers
- Other reliefs: Rent credit, medical expenses, etc.
Childcare Support Options
National Childcare Scheme (NCS)
The NCS provides subsidies that reduce your childcare fees directly. While not a tax relief, it significantly lowers costs for eligible families. The subsidy is based on income and can be applied to participating childcare providers.
Employer Childcare Schemes
Some employers offer childcare benefits. While most schemes have tax implications, employer-provided childcare at the workplace can be tax-free up to certain limits.
Tax Credits for Parents
While you can't get tax relief on childcare fees directly, these tax credits help parents:
Home Carer Tax Credit (€1,950)
For married couples or civil partners where one spouse stays home to care for children or other dependents. The caring spouse's income must be below a threshold. This credit recognises the economic value of home caring.
Single Person Child Carer Credit (€1,900)
Worth €1,900 plus an increased standard rate tax band. For single parents who are the primary carer for a qualifying child. This significant credit can be backdated four years.
Incapacitated Child Tax Credit (€3,800)
If your child has a permanent physical or mental incapacity, you may be entitled to this substantial credit.
💡 Real Example
Claire, a single mother, wasn't claiming the SPCCC. When we reviewed her tax, we backdated the credit for four years. Combined with rent credit and medical expenses for her children, her total refund was €9,240.
Other Reliefs for Families
Parents often qualify for additional reliefs:
- Rent tax credit – up to €1,000/year (€2,000 for couples)
- Medical expenses – 20% relief for whole family
- Work expenses – for many professions
- Tuition fees – for qualifying education
The average refund our clients receive is €1,080. Parents often receive more when multiple credits and reliefs apply.
Working Parent? Check Your Tax Credits
Our experts will find every credit and relief your family is entitled to.
Start Your Tax Review →No refund, no fee • Average refund €1,080 • TAIN: 77632V
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get tax relief on childcare fees?
There's no direct tax relief on childcare fees in Ireland. Instead, the National Childcare Scheme provides subsidies that reduce costs. However, you may qualify for other credits like the Home Carer Credit.
What if both parents work?
Dual-income families don't qualify for the Home Carer Credit, but you may still be entitled to other reliefs—rent credit, medical expenses, work expenses, and more. Our review finds everything available.
Can I claim children's medical expenses?
Yes, you can claim 20% tax relief on medical expenses you pay for your children—GP visits, prescriptions, dental work, orthodontics. See our family medical relief guide.
Can I backdate tax credit claims?
Yes! Most tax credits can be backdated up to four years. If you've been missing credits like the SPCCC or Home Carer Credit, you could claim them for 2021-2024. Many parents discover significant refunds when we review their complete tax history.
