Paying for child care
State Subsidy Option
The Washington State Working Connections Child Care subsidy provides financial assistance for families with low incomes while they work, look for work, or go to school. More information and eligibility requirements can be found here. Visit Washington Connection to apply.
City of Seattle Child Care Assistance Program
The City of Seattle helps low- and moderate-income working families pay for child care. A family may choose from more than 200 high-quality licensed child care programs in Seattle. To learn more about the program and be screened for eligibility, please visit the CCAP website. If you have questions, contact CCAP at 206-386-1050.
Child Care Subsidy Program for Families Experiencing Homelessness
Child Care Resources assists families experiencing homelessness in King and Pierce Counties who would like support navigating and accessing child care and child care financial assistance. If you have questions or to complete our intake process, call us at 206-329-5544 or 1-800-446-1114 or search our online database.
Goodwin Connections Family Connections Program
Goodwin Connections has a program to help full time students in Snohomish, King, and Pierce counties to pay for child care. Learn more here.
King County Veteran Student Child Care Subsidy
Child Care Resources administers a subsidy program for Veteran Students in partnership with the King County Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy. To apply or learn more visit here or call 206-338-7570.
Tax Savings When Paying for Child Care
Some employers offer flexible/dependent care spending accounts, which allow costs for child care to be deducted from your paycheck pre-tax. Talk to your employer to find out if a flex plan is available. Earned Income Tax Credit is a tax credit for low- and moderate-income working individuals and families. The Federal Child Tax Credit is another way to help pay for child care and can help you save on your tax bill.
Sliding Scale Options and Discounts
Your child care provider may offer a multi-child discount or sliding scale based on income. When you interview caregivers, have a discussion about what you can afford and request written information about costs.