State and Local Assistance Programs

State Child Care Subsidies
Child care subsidies are available in every state, but eligibility guidelines vary. These subsidies are typically available for lower-income families who are working, and in some cases attending school. Eligible participants pay a portion of child care costs, and the balance is paid directly to their selected child care provider. For more information, please visit Workforce Solutions.  

Low-Cost Pre-Kindergarten Programs
Many states now offer free or low cost pre-kindergarten programs for three- and four-year-old children. For more information, please contact your school district's administration office for your zoned elementary school.

Federal and Employer Assistance Programs

Employer and College Support
Your employer or college may provide access to child care discounts, on-site care and child care scholarships.

Head Start and Early Head Start
Head Start and Early Head Start are government funded full- or part-day programs that provide free child care and other services for eligible children. Most families who access Head Start or Early Head Start must have incomes that meet federal poverty guidelines. To locate a program near you, visit the Texas Head Start State Collaboration Office, or the Early Head Start National Resource Center.

Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
As a parent or guardian, you may be able to lower your taxes and even receive a refund. To qualify for the EITC, you must be working full- or part-time and make less than a certain amount based upon family size. For more information or to see if you qualify, click here.   

Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC)
If you have a dependent child under the age of 17, you may qualify for the Federal Child Tax Credit, which can be worth hundreds of dollars per child. For more information or to see if you qualify, click here.  

Dependent Care Assistance Programs (DCAPs)
Your employer may offer a Dependent Care Assistance Program, which allows you to have money (up to $5,000 a year) taken out of your paycheck tax-free and put into a special account to be used for child care reimbursement. Check with your company’s Human Resources department for details.

Additional Resources

A variety of local and national organizations are equipped to provide funding and guidance for those seeking affordable child care. For more information, visit these organizations online.

Catholic Charities
Assistance with basic needs, food and more.

Covering Kids and Families
A national organization working to enroll children and families in low-cost or free health care programs.