Ayrshire families are being urged to give their childcare budget a treat this Hallowe'en by opening a Tax-Free Childcare account.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is reminding working families that they can use Tax-Free Childcare to help with childcare costs for school holiday clubs, breakfast or after school clubs, childminders or nurseries.

It provides working families with up to £2,000 a year per child off their childcare bills for children up to the age of 11, or £4,000 a year up to the age of 16 if their child has a disability.

For every £8 paid into a Tax-Free Childcare account, families automatically receive a top up from the UK Government of £2.

Using the tax-free top up, families can save up to £500 every three months for each child or £1,000 if their child is disabled. 

It takes around 20 minutes to open an account and money can be deposited at any time. The money can be used straight away or left in the account and used whenever it is needed. 

Opening a Tax-Free Childcare account is quick and easy and can be done at any time of the year.

Families who have not yet signed up should check their eligibility and apply online today.

The UK Government is offering help for households. Check GOV.UK to find out what cost of living support is available, including help with childcare costs.