Understanding the Childcare Subsidy (CCS) in New Zealand

At Small Sprouts, we know that the cost of childcare can be a significant expense for families. To make early learning more accessible, the New Zealand Government provides the Childcare Subsidy (CCS) to help parents with the cost of childcare.

This subsidy is designed to support working parents, students, and those involved in approved activities, helping them access affordable early childhood education and care. Here’s everything you need to know about how it works, who is eligible, and how to apply.

Note: In a separate blog, we will also cover other lesser-known subsidy options, including the Early Learning Payment (ELP), Guaranteed Childcare Assistance Payment (GCAP), OSCAR Subsidy, and Flexible Childcare Assistance.

 What is the Childcare Subsidy (CCS)?

The Childcare Subsidy (CCS) is an income-tested subsidy designed to help families with the cost of childcare for children under 5 years old. It is provided by Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) and is available to eligible parents who are:

• Working, studying, or involved in an approved activity

• Receiving a benefit from WINZ

• Seeking employment or receiving childcare assistance for health-related reasons

Who is Eligible for the Childcare Subsidy?

To be eligible for the Childcare Subsidy (CCS), you must:

1. Be the primary caregiver of the child needing care.

2. Be working, studying, or involved in an approved activity.

3. Meet the income threshold set by Work and Income.

4. Have a child under 5 years old attending an approved ECE provider, like Small Sprouts.

Income Thresholds

• The amount of subsidy you receive depends on your household income and the number of children you have. Families with lower incomes receive a higher subsidy rate.

🔗 Check the current income thresholds on the Work and Income website.

How Much Can You Get?

The Childcare Subsidy helps cover the cost of up to 50 hours of childcare per week. The amount you receive depends on:

1. Your household income

2. The number of children you have in childcare

3. The number of hours your child attends childcare

Example of How It Works:

• If your child attends 5 days a week for 6 hours per day, you can receive the subsidy for up to 30 hours. The remaining costs will be calculated based on your income and childcare fees.

🔗 For more detailed information, visit our Government Funding Page.

How to Apply for the Childcare Subsidy

Applying for the Childcare Subsidy (CCS) is straightforward:

1. Check Your Eligibility – Visit the Work and Income website to check your income thresholds and see if your family qualifies.

2. Enrol Your Child at Small Sprouts – Complete our enrolment form and let us know you are applying for the Childcare Subsidy.

3. Complete the Application Form – Fill out the Childcare Subsidy application form and provide the necessary documents, such as:

4. Proof of income (e.g., payslips or benefit statement)

5. Proof of childcare enrolment at Small Sprouts

6. Your child’s birth certificate or passport

7. Submit to Work and Income – Submit your application to Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ).

8. Approval & Payments – Once approved, payments are made directly to Small Sprouts, reducing your childcare costs.

🔗 Learn more about how to apply on the Work and Income website.

Can You Use Childcare Subsidy with Other Funding?

Yes! You can use the Childcare Subsidy (CCS) alongside other government funding options, including:

1. 20 Hours ECE for children aged 3-5 years (covering up to 20 hours per week)

2. Family Boost Subsidy for working parents who meet the income threshold

At Small Sprouts, we can help you navigate the process to ensure you maximise all available funding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Change My Hours or Days?

• Yes! If your schedule changes, just let us know in advance, and we’ll help you adjust your childcare hours and notify WINZ of the changes.

Do I Need to Reapply for the Subsidy?

• You may need to reapply or update your application if your income changes, your child’s hours change, or at regular review periods set by WINZ.

Are There Any Extra Costs?

• At Small Sprouts, we are transparent about all fees, so you always know what is covered by the subsidy and what isn’t.

Why Choose Small Sprouts for Your Childcare Subsidy?

At Small Sprouts, we:

🌿 Offer a nurturing, play-based learning environment inspired by Te Whāriki.

🌿 Embrace biculturalism and cultural diversity, ensuring every child feels a sense of belonging.

🌿 Provide flexible enrolment options to suit your family’s needs.

🌿 Support parents in navigating the subsidy process to make early learning more accessible.

Final Thoughts: Making Early Learning More Affordable

The Childcare Subsidy (CCS) is a great way to reduce the cost of childcare while giving your child the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in a nurturing environment. At Small Sprouts, we are committed to making early learning accessible, affordable, and enriching for every child.

Coming Soon:

In our next blog, we’ll cover other lesser-known government subsidies, including the Early Learning Payment (ELP), Guaranteed Childcare Assistance Payment (GCAP), OSCAR Subsidy, and Flexible Childcare Assistance. Stay tuned to learn more about these options and how they can support your family.