Ways to make child care more affordable
The average full time rate in Kent County as of August 2010, are as follows: infant/toddlers $127.50 homes/$184 centers; for 3-4 years $122 homes/$156 centers; and for school-age $121 homes/$142 centers.
Finding Help Paying for Child Care
DHS Child Care Assistance: http://www.michigan.gov/childcare for information to apply and to learn about the billing process
Tax Credits
Claim the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child and Dependant Care Credit and the Child Tax Credit.
Call 1-800-829-1040 or visit http://www.irs.gov for more information.
Kent County Tax Credit Coalition (KCTCC) program helps families complete income tax returns and apply for Earned Income Tax Credit. Call United Way’s 2-1-1 or 616-459-2255 for more information.
Child Care Commitment Grants - www.womenscaringprogram.org Call 616-421-8185, 1-800-875-6751 or click here for an application.
Dependent Care Assistance Programs - Some employers offer Dependent Care Assistance programs that allow you to have money (up to $5,000 a year) deducted from your paycheck for child care, tax-free. Ask your employer to consider this program if they don’t currently offer it.
Great Start Readiness Program and Head Start
Head Start for Kent County 616/453-4145, is free to families meeting eligibility guidelines. Contact your local school district for information about the state-funded Great Start Readiness Program for eligible 4-year-old children.
Tips
· Ask your provider for a written copy of their payment policies, fees, and payment schedule.
· Some centers and homes will have you pay at the beginning of the week for child care.
· Some will charge a deposit.
· Some will ask potential clients for references from previous providers.
· Ask for a weekly calendar that displays a sticker on days indicating when payment is due.
· Keep a record of child care payments so you can compare to the statements provided by the home or center.
· If you are having a payment issue, discuss the problem with the provider as soon as possible.
Dispute Resolution Center of West Michigan - http://www.drcwm.org/ 616/774-0121 or 800/873-7658
For parents and programs who are struggling over a child care payment issue, the Dispute Resolution Center of West Michigan may be able to assist. The service is free and agreements are legally binding.