NCS 2026
Childcare Cost Calculator
See exactly what the National Childcare Scheme (NCS) saves you — and your actual out-of-pocket cost.
About the NCS
The National Childcare Scheme provides two subsidies: a universal subsidy available to all eligible families regardless of income, and an income-assessed subsidy which increases the lower your household income.
Eligible children must be aged 6 months to 15 years and attend an NCS-registered provider. Your income is verified by Revenue via myAccount.
The ECCE free preschool year is entirely separate — contact your local provider or Tusla to check eligibility.