How to get help paying for childcare
Childcare is one of the biggest costs families face, but subsidy programs and free early-learning options like Head Start can cut it dramatically — or cover it entirely.
Key takeaways
- Childcare subsidies (CCAP) help working or in-school parents pay for approved care.
- Head Start offers free early education, meals, and support for young children.
- You usually pay only a small share of the cost based on your income.
- Income limits are often higher than people expect — it's worth applying.
For many families, childcare costs as much as rent — sometimes more. The good news is there are programs designed to make it affordable so parents can work, go to school, or job-hunt without giving up most of their paycheck to childcare. Two of the most helpful are childcare subsidies and Head Start.
Childcare subsidies (often called CCAP or a 'childcare voucher'):
- Help pay for care at approved providers, including many home-based and center programs
- Are usually for working, in-school, or job-searching parents with low or moderate income
- You pay a small share based on your income; the program covers the rest
- Run by your state, so the name and rules vary
Head Start and Early Head Start:
- Free early education for children from low-income families
- Head Start serves kids ages 3 to 5; Early Head Start serves babies, toddlers, and pregnant parents
- Includes learning, meals, and health and family support at no cost
How to apply:
- For subsidies: contact your state's childcare assistance office or your local 'child care resource and referral' agency
- For Head Start: find your nearest program through the Head Start locator or by calling 211
- You'll usually need proof of income, proof of work or school, and your child's information
Don't rule yourself out because you think you earn 'too much' — subsidy income limits are often higher than people expect, and Head Start prioritizes low-income families but can serve others too. Applying costs nothing, and the savings can free up hundreds of dollars a month.
What this is
Why it matters
What this means for you
What you can do next
Related FAQs
Common questions about this topic, answered simply.
Who qualifies for childcare subsidies?
Rules vary by state, but subsidies generally go to parents who are working, in school, or job-searching and have low to moderate income. You typically pay a small copay based on your income, and the program covers the rest at an approved provider.
Is Head Start really free?
Yes. Head Start and Early Head Start are free for eligible families and include early education, meals, and health and family support. They prioritize low-income families, and Early Head Start also supports pregnant parents and children under three.
Can I use a subsidy with any childcare provider?
You'll usually need to use an approved or licensed provider, but that often includes many centers and home-based programs — sometimes even a trusted relative who meets the rules. Your state childcare office can give you a list of eligible providers.
Keep reading
From renting to owning: Family Self-Sufficiency and Section 8 homeownership
Some Section 8 voucher holders may be able to join a savings program called Family Self-Sufficiency and, in some areas, even use their voucher to buy a home instead of rent. This guide explains how both options work and what steps you can take to explore them.
Read Help and assistance programsOther ways to lower your housing costs: LIHTC, HUD senior and disability housing, USDA rural rentals
Beyond housing vouchers, there are other programs that may help you find affordable rental housing — including income-restricted apartments, HUD programs for seniors and people with disabilities, and USDA help for rural renters. This guide explains each one and shows you how to start looking.
Read Help and assistance programsCan you move with a Section 8 voucher? Porting to another city or state
If you have a Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8), you may be able to take it with you when you move to a new city or state. This guide explains how voucher portability works, what steps to take, and what to watch out for.
Read Help and assistance programsAnnual recertification for housing assistance: what to report and when
If you receive housing assistance in the United States, your program is reviewed every year to make sure your information is still accurate. Knowing what to report and when can help you keep your benefits and avoid losing your housing.
ReadTest what you learned & earn points
Take a quick 3-question quiz on this article to earn MoneyFAQ points, build your streak, and unlock badges. Free account required.
Want answers personalized to your situation?
Tell us your #1 money goal and we'll tailor MoneyFAQ to you — free, takes 10 seconds.
Find help in your state
Enter your ZIP code to see the official food, health, energy, phone, and cash-assistance programs available where you live.
When you're ready, here are some options
These are ads from partners — always optional. Looking is free and never affects your credit score. Reading the guide above is completely free either way.