Childcare Assistance Programs: Help Paying for Daycare
Quality childcare is expensive, often costing more than rent or college tuition. But assistance programs can help make childcare affordable so you can work or attend school.
Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF)
This federal program provides childcare subsidies to low-income families who are working or in education/training. Benefits go directly to childcare providers, and families pay a copay based on income. Apply through your state or county social services office.
Head Start and Early Head Start
These free programs serve children from birth to age 5 in families at or below the poverty level. Head Start provides comprehensive early education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services. Search for programs at eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov.
Other Options
- Childcare Tax Credit – claim when filing taxes
- Employer childcare benefits – some employers subsidize care
- Sliding-scale childcare centers – many nonprofits adjust fees by income
- State pre-K programs – free preschool in many states
