State childcare subsidies
Georgia CAPS, North Carolina Subsidized Child Care, Florida School Readiness Program. Each subsidizes care for income-qualifying families through a sliding scale.
Federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit
Up to $3,000 per child for childcare expenses claimed on your federal taxes. Doesn't help low-income families since it's non-refundable.
Dependent Care FSA
If your employer offers it, sock away up to $5,000 pre-tax for childcare expenses. Don't forget to use it — "use it or lose it."
Head Start and Early Head Start
Free for families at or below the federal poverty line. Includes meals and developmental screenings.