Resources for Paying for Child Care
Paying for Child Care
No matter your family’s need, you’re not alone.
Child care costs vary based on where you live, the type of child care you use, your schedule of care and your child’s age. The best way to learn about the average cost of care in your area is to contact the OECOSL Childcare Support Line at 1-800-299-1627. Experts there can tell you how much you might expect to pay based on the type of care you prefer and the age of your child. They can also provide you with a list of local child care options that can meet your family’s needs.
There may also be other child care costs in addition to the weekly or monthly tuition costs. Some programs charge an annual registration fee and some also charge fees for materials, field trips, meals and snacks. Once you have a list of child care providers from your local CCRR agency, you can call each program on the list and ask about tuition rates and any other fees they may charge. It is also a good idea to schedule a time to visit each program.
What are some of my financial assistance options?
There are programs and resources available to help families with the cost of child care. Government-funded assistance programs are available in Indiana to help families with the cost of child care. Eligibility requirements vary by program.
Child Care Voucher Program (CCDF)
The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) is a federal program that helps families who are income eligible receive child care assistance, so that they may work, attend training, or continue their education. In Indiana, the Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning, part of the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), manages CCDF.
Learn more about CCDF vouchers
On My Way Pre-K
On My Way Pre-K awards grants to 4 year olds from low-income families so that they may have access to a high-quality pre-K program the year before they begin kindergarten. Families who are approved may use their voucher at any approved On My Way Pre-K program.
Learn more about On My Way Pre-K grants
Head Start and Early Head Start Programs
Head Start and Early Head Start are federally- and sometimes state-funded programs. Early Head Start serves children from birth to 2 years old. Head Start serves children from 3-5 years old. Services may include free part- or full-day child care, home visiting and other health and wellness services. These programs are designed to meet the health and school readiness needs of children in income-eligible families.
Learn more about Head Start and locate a program near you
Military Child Care Assistance
If you are a member of the United States military, you may be eligible for Department of Defense child care fee assistance. Members of the Army, Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps may receive help paying for child care providers in the community where they live if they are unable to access care on their installation. If your family is part of the Army, Navy, Air Force or Marines, learn more at Child Care Aware of America’s website.
What are my other options?
If you do not qualify for the assistance programs outlined in this guide OR you are currently on a waiting list but need care now, there may be additional funding options available to you.
Adjustable Rates: Some child care programs offer discounts, such as sibling discounts or military discounts. Other providers may offer scholarships to eligible families or sliding fee scales that allow families to pay a rate based on their income.
Employer/ College Supports: Your employer may provide child care scholarships, discounts to certain child care programs or on-site child care at reduced rates. Colleges or universities may also have on-site child care or programs to help with costs.
Tax Credits: While tax credits can only be accessed after filing your taxes, you may be able to use your tax refund to pay child care costs. You may be eligible to claim credits such as the Child Tax Credit, the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit and the Earned Income Tax Credit. These credits and others may help you receive a tax refund.
Flexible Spending Accounts: Some employers have plans that allow employees to reserve a portion of their wages for child care. Money from each paycheck is taken out pre-tax and placed in a special fund that can only be used for child care costs. Talk to your Human Resources department to find out if this is an option where you work.
