Access additional funding when hiring an apprentice
From 1 October 2026, eligible non-levy paying employers may be able to receive a hiring payment of up to £2,000 when recruiting a new apprentice aged 16 to 24.
The payment forms part of the Government's plans to increase the number of young people starting apprenticeships and can help reduce the cost of recruitment while supporting future workforce development.
Who is eligible?
An employer may be eligible if:
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They are a non-levy employer
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The apprentice is aged 16 to 24
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The apprenticeship starts on or after 1 October 2026
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The apprentice began employment no more than 90 days before their apprenticeship training start date
How the payment works
You do not need to apply for the hiring payment. Eligibility is checked automatically through the Apprenticeship Service and HMRC.
Once eligibility has been confirmed and the required 90-day employment check has been completed, the payment will be made to us as your training provider. We will then pass the funding on to the employer within 30 days of receiving it.
The payment will be made in two instalments: £1,000 after the apprentice completes their first 90 days, and the second £1,000 after the one-year mark, or after 242 days for shorter apprenticeships and foundation apprenticeships.
Tip
To help avoid delays, employers should ensure the correct PAYE scheme is linked to the apprentice's National Insurance number within their Apprenticeship Service account.
How CSA Learning can help
If you're considering recruiting an apprentice, we can guide you through the process and help you access the funding available to your organisation.
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