From today, Kiwi families can claim more back on early childhood education (ECE) fees under the Government’s expanded FamilyBoost scheme.

Households earning up to just under $230,000 a year are now eligible, up from the previous cap of $180,000.

Families can also claim 40 per cent of their ECE costs, up to $300 a week, compared with 25 per cent previously.

That means the maximum weekly refund rises from $75 to $120.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis says the changes will help ease the squeeze on family budgets.

“More than 68,000 households have already benefited from FamilyBoost, making life with a little one that much easier,” she said.

Families can apply now for costs from July to September through Inland Revenue.

“It’s very easy to register and apply for FamilyBoost.

Just head to the Inland Revenue website – ird.govt.nz/familyboost,” Willis added.

For parents on the Hibiscus Coast, where childcare fees are a significant part of household spending, the boost could free up extra money each week.

That might cover groceries, fuel for the daily commute, or simply take some pressure off in the run-up to Christmas.

The changes were signed into law at the end of September with support from all parliamentary parties except the Greens.

About 21,000 more households across New Zealand are now expected to qualify for help with ECE costs.

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