Family Care

Help with daycare costs

Find childcare assistance programs in your state to help cover costs

Taking care of kids–especially when they’re young–is a full-time job on its own. If you need assistance, there are government programs and local resources in your area to help.

Childcare assistance programs can help parents afford childcare so they can attend work or school.

Some states also offer free or discounted daycare for qualifying families, often in exchange for a small monthly co-payment. Because the eligibility varies greatly, and many have waitlists, we recommend starting as soon as possible.

See if you qualify




Frequently Asked Questions

Where can you apply?

Applications for childcare assistance can be submitted through a state or local agency either online, in-person, or on the phone, depending on your state.

Are there work requirements?

There are certain work requirements for childcare assistance. These requirements vary by state, but in most cases parents must be working or going to school.

Will childcare costs be covered fully?

Subsidies can seriously reduce the price, but it won’t always cover all of your costs. Depending on your income, you might need to pay a portion of the childcare expenses every month as a co-payment.

What documentation is needed?

Application paperwork will likely ask for documentation such as proof of citizenship or immigration status, where you live, and your income.

The Joy of Money book by Carrie Joy Grimes

You don’t have to figure money out alone

Get clear, practical guidance and real-life insights from our CEO, Carrie Joy Grimes, in her new book The Joy of Money.

Learn more
WorkMoney

About Us

  • Careers
  • Contact Us
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • In the News

Money Savers

  • Family Care
  • Food
  • Healthcare
  • Home Upgrades
  • Housing
  • Credit, Debt, & Investing
  • Taxes
  • Transit and Car
  • Phone & Utilities
  • Work

Money Tips

  • Budget 101
  • Credit 101
  • Daily Savings
  • Debt Tips
  • Family Events
  • Healthcare
  • Jobs
  • Scams
  • Taxes

Membership

  • Member Benefits
  • Member Testimonials
  • Member Login
  • Sign Up

Resources

  • Money Finder
  • Local Resource Finder
  • Search

Policies and Disclaimers

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms
  • SMS Terms of Service

Language

  • English
  • Spanish
  • Facebook
  • X
  • Youtube
  • Instagram
  • TikTok
© 2026– WorkMoney
Skip to main contentWorkMoney
  • Save Money
  • Take Control
  • Plan Ahead
  • Member Benefits
  • About Us
Sign up

Other Ways to Save Money

Unlock savings opportunities in every corner of life.

Top money-saver

Free daycare and pre-K for kids under 5 with Head Start Program

See solution

Guidance and resources you can count on for caring for seniors

See solution

Get daycare and preschool coverage

Get local elder care help through AARP

Related Articles

Every dollar counts. See how to stretch yours.

Man and a woman sit at table discussing taxes with an accountant.

Suggested read

Stop Overpaying Your Taxes: The Must-Claim Tax Credits for Working Families

Keep More of Your Paycheck with These Essential Tax Breaks for Parents and Caregivers