Nearly one million families are at risk of missing out on tax-free childcare this festive season. It is estimated that around 800,000 families are eligible for the benefit but are not claiming it.

The scheme essentially allows parents to avoid paying tax on earnings they would use to pay for childcare. Typically, you would pay £20 out of £100 in taxes, but under this scheme, the government tops up the claimant by £20.

The money intended for childcare can then be used to pay for childcare…