For many parents, child care costs as much as rent. It can feel impossible to work without it and impossible to pay for it. Several programs exist to help make child care more affordable.
State child care subsidies
Every state receives federal money through the Child Care and Development Fund to help low-income families pay for child care while parents work, look for work, or attend school or training. Families usually pay a copay based on income, and the program pays the rest to the child care provider.
Head Start and Early Head Start
Head Start offers free early education, meals, and health services for children ages 3 to 5 from low-income families. Early Head Start serves pregnant women, infants, and toddlers. Children in foster care, homeless families, and families receiving TANF or SSI are often automatically eligible.
Tax credits that help
- Child and Dependent Care Credit: may reduce your taxes based on what you paid for care while working.
- Child Tax Credit: provides tax help for families with qualifying children.
- Earned Income Tax Credit: a refundable credit for working people with low to moderate income.
Free tax help through the IRS VITA program can make sure you claim every credit you qualify for.
How to get started
- Search for your state’s child care assistance program or call 211.
- Use ChildCare.gov to find licensed providers and learn about help in your state.
- Use the Head Start locator to find programs near you.
- Gather proof of income, work or school schedules, and children’s birth certificates.
How to choose quality child care
Getting help paying for care is only half the battle. You also want a place where your child is safe and learning. When visiting a provider, ask:
- Is the program licensed, and can I see the most recent inspection report?
- How many children are there for each adult?
- What does a typical day look like?
- How do you handle discipline, naps, and meals?
- What is your policy if my child is sick?
ChildCare.gov links to each state’s search tool, where you can often look up a provider’s license and inspection history.
Before- and after-school care
Child care help isn’t only for babies and toddlers. In many states, subsidies also cover before- and after-school care and summer programs for school-age children, usually up to age 13. Some schools and community centers also run low-cost programs. Ask your school district and local YMCA or Boys and Girls Club about options.
A real-life example
Monica got a job offer as a dental assistant but couldn’t figure out how to pay for child care for her 3-year-old. A friend told her about Head Start, and she also applied for her state’s child care subsidy for after-school care for her older son.
Her daughter started Head Start in the fall, and the subsidy covered most of her son’s after-school program. Monica was able to accept the job.
Tips from people who have been through it
- Apply for child care help before you start a new job if possible.
- Visit providers and ask about hours, ratios, and meals.
- Ask whether your provider accepts state subsidies.
- Claim child care tax credits when you file your taxes.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose any child care provider?
Usually you can choose from licensed or approved providers who accept the subsidy, including some family members in certain states.
Is there a waiting list?
In some states, yes. Apply as soon as you can.
Does my child need to be a citizen?
For subsidies, the child generally needs to be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant, but parents’ status is often not considered. Rules for Head Start can change, so ask your local program.
Related guides
- Free Tax Help and the EITC: Claim the Money You’ve Earned
- TANF Cash Assistance: What It Is and How to Apply
- Free and Reduced-Price School Meals: How Families Can Apply
Official resources
This guide is for general information only. US Assistance Guide is an independent website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any government agency. Program rules, income limits, and benefit amounts change often and vary by state, so always confirm details with the official agency before you apply.