FamilyBoost: Easing Childcare Costs for Kiwi Families

FamilyBoost is a government initiative designed to help New Zealand families with the rising costs of early childhood education (ECE). Eligible households can receive a partial refund of their ECE fees, making quality childcare more accessible and affordable.

What is FamilyBoost?

FamilyBoost offers a refund of up to 25% of your weekly childcare fees, with a maximum payment of $975 every three months. This initiative is aimed at helping families with the day-to-day costs of early education.

Learn more at ird.govt.nz/familyboost

Who Can Benefit from FamilyBoost?

You may be eligible if:

  • You have children aged 5 years or under enrolled in a licensed early childhood education service
  • Your annual household income is under $180,000
  • You’re paying fees to a licensed childcare provider
  • You’re a tax resident of New Zealand

Note: If parents or caregivers are separated, each may be able to claim FamilyBoost separately, provided they have separate invoices and meet the criteria.

How Much Can You Receive?

You may receive up to $975 each quarter. For households earning between $140,000 and $180,000 per year, the amount gradually reduces before phasing out.

The FamilyBoost periods for 2024-2025 are: 

  • 1st July 2024 - 30th September 2024 
  • 1st October 2024 - 31st December 2024
  • 1st January 2025 - 31st March 2025 
  • 1st April 2025 - 30th June 2025 
  • 1st July 2025 - 30th September 2025 
  • 1st October 2025 - 31st December 2025 

You can apply on the first of the month following these periods. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for FamilyBoost

Step 1: Set up a myIR Account

  1. Visit ird.govt.nz and open the myIR portal. 
  2. If you don’t already have an account, register using your IRD number and personal details.
  3. Follow the prompts to verify your identity and activate your account.

Step 2: Register for FamilyBoost

  1. Log in to myIR.
  2. Find the FamilyBoost section and start your registration.
  3. Provide your household income details, childcare provider information, and your child’s details. 
  4. Submit the form. You only need to register once.

Step 3: Keep Your Childcare Invoices

  • Save all invoices from your childcare provider starting from 1 July 2024.
  • Invoices should be in PDF or JPEG format and must include your name (the same as your myIR account).

Step 4: Submit a Claim

  1. Log in to myIR after each quarter.
  2. Go to the FamilyBoost section and start your claim.
  3. Upload your invoices for the relevant period.
  4. Double-check your details, then submit the claim.

Step 5: Receive Your Payment
If your claim is approved, the payment will be made directly to your bank account. Payments are made quarterly. The first payment will be in October 2024 for costs from 1 July to 30 September 2024.

Need Help?

  • Download our how to guide 
  • Visit the official FamilyBoost page at ird.govt.nz/familyboost
  • Watch the video guide: “FamilyBoost: What it is and how to register & claim” HERE
  • Speak with your ECE provider or Inland Revenue if you need help with your application