Ways to make child care more affordable

Child care is expensive for most families. 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 State Child Care Assistance 
http://www.michigan.gov/childcare
Working parents who meet income guidelines may be eligible for the Child Development and Care (CDC) Assistance program through the Department of Human Services (DHS).  This subsidy pays a portion of the child care cost for parents who use licensed centers, family and group day care homes, approved in-home day care aides and relatives care providers.  
Billing Process for DHS State Child Care Assistance
www.michigan.gov/childcare 
Starting in May 2009, both parents and providers will be required to enter hours of child care for DHS to review and authorize payments. If you have questions about these billing changes, please call 1-866-990-3227.

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
This grant may help pay for child care expenses of low and moderate income families. To learn more about this grant and get an application, 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
Michigan Family Resources Head Start 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.  Another program in Kent County is Bright Beginnings 616/365-2277. They offer playgroups and parent support to help parents ensure children are ready to learn when they start school.

Paying for Child Care 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 prominently displays a sticker on days indicating when payment is due. 
Keep a record of child care payments so you can compare this 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 really 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.