Childcare Costs

pollyanna24

I don't have the first clue as to how much it costs, as I am only 15 weeks pregnant, but just trying to work out if it would be worth me going back to work full time (I don't really want to, but me and the boss had the old "When are you leaving? Are you coming back?" chat today).

I earn a reasonable wage and more than my bf, so it might be more viable for him to stay at home at look after bubba, but if we were both to work, how much would child care cost? How much am I likely to save if I can get boss to use those childcare vouchers things?

I earn £1,922 after tax (yes, sounds great, but have you seen my mortgage! and the more money you have, the more you miss it when it's gone and maternity pay is only £450 ish a month), so I'm guessing I still might have some money left after the baby care costs. Would it be worth me going back to work?

conradmum

Even as early as 15 weeks you should be looking at childcare provision in your area. Some nurseries have long waiting lists. Or start enquiring at your local council about registered childminders. You need to think about the pros and cons of each option and decide which you would prefer, because the costs may be different. I only know about private nurseries, which in my area are between £30 - £40 per full day (8am to 6pm).

However, bear in mind that you will receive child benefit once the baby is born, family tax credit and possibly working tax credit. Your entitlement from the latter two depends on your income, which will influence your decision about who stays at home. Your employer may also offer or be persuaded to offer childcare vouchers, which save you some money in tax and N.I.

Look on www.entitledto.com to get an idea of any benefits you may get.

I'd advise you not to give your employer any indication of what you may or may not do, simply because you really won't be able to tell until the baby is born how you'll feel. And you'd feel bad if you had to go back on any assurances you'd given.

CarolynH

conradmum wrote: »

Your employer may also offer or be persuaded to offer childcare vouchers, which save you some money in tax and N.I.

AND THEM!! It saves them money on employers NI conts too. I'd remind them of this LOTS if I were you!!!

Congrats on the new-to-be arrival. :T