EIM21687 - Particular benefits: childcare

Sections 62 and 318 ITEPA 2003

If an employer provides employees with help with childcare the provision will normally give rise to a tax charge on the employees concerned. Note though that there is a special exemption which applies to certain workplace nurseries (see EIM21900 onwards).

The following table sets out the ways in which childcare assistance might be provided, and the way in which an employment income liability will arise in each case.

Nature of provision

Section of ITEPA 2003

Relevant instructions

All directors and employees whatever their rate of pay

Employers pay a cash allowance to help with childcare expensesSection 62EIM05100
Employer pays the fees of a nursery or childminder engaged by the employeeSection 62EIM00580
Employer reimburses childcare expenses to employeeSection 62EIM00520 and EIM00590
Employer provides vouchers which employee can use to pay for childcarePart 3 Chapter 4EIM16000 to EIM16220

Directors and employees within the benefits code

Employer provides a nursery or childminder to look after employees' childrenPart 3 Chapter 6EIM21101
Exemption for certain work-place nurseriesSection 318EIM21900