I am an Approved Person at an optical shop or retail pharmacy, what would I need to do once the new guidelines are implemented on 1 Jan 2026?
From 1 Jan 2026, businesses that are no longer an Approved Institution (AI) will be required to comply with the following:
1. Stop accepting all payments using the Child Development Account (CDA), including terminating all existing GIRO Direct Debit Arrangements (DDA) using CDA bank accounts;
2. Remove and properly dispose of all Baby Bonus AI stickers displayed at their premises;
3. Remove any mention of CDA as a payment option on the centre’s website/collaterals; and
4. Maintain records of CDA withdrawals made for the past 3 years for audit purposes.
Please note that payments made through CDA withdrawals are strictly prohibited once a business is no longer an AI. MSF monitors CDA transactions and will investigate any unauthorised CDA withdrawals.
Related questions
What action will be taken if optical shops or retail pharmacies accept Child Development Account (CDA) payments on or after 1 Jan 2026?
If partial payment had been made for a child’s eyewear or medication via Child Development Account (CDA) before 1 Jan 2026, can the optical shops or retail pharmacies allow remaining balance to be paid via CDA after discontinuation as Baby Bonus Approved Institution (AI) from 1 Jan 2026?
When will the discontinuation of Child Development Account (CDA) usage at optical shops and retail pharmacies be implemented?
Can my optical shop or retail pharmacy continue accepting Child Development Account (CDA) payments before 1 Jan 2026?
