How To Pay For Childcare Costs In Texas
It’s hard to be a working parent in Texas. Childcare costs are costly, reaching $777 per month for infants, and $560 for toddlers and preschoolers. It can be even more expensive in big cities like Houston, Dallas, and Arlington, where fees go from $900 to $1000 per child. These childcare costs can be hard on any family and leave them looking for ways to make emergency cash.
These costs are more than most households can afford, which is why many parents worry about how to pay for childcare — especially when inflation is already stretching their budget very thin. The good thing is there are options to help you pay for adequate childcare. Here are some ways to find free or subsidized childcare, or where to find the money for it.
Pay For Childcare Costs With These Options
Texas Workforce Commission (TWC)
The TWC is a government agency that provides unemployment benefits, development programs, and job opportunities. But aside from helping you find a job, it can also provide help if you are wondering how to pay for childcare. If you meet the income requirements, you can apply for childcare subsidies or a long-term childcare scholarship.
The TWC is also helping childcare businesses recover from the pandemic, so they have a massive network of accredited centers that are safe and affordable for your child. Visit the Texas Workforce Commission website to find out how to pay for childcare and what you need to do to get started with the program.
Child Care Group
This organization subsidizes the cost of childcare for selected counties in Dallas, Heart of Texas, and Southeast Texas. It is open for single parents who work at least 25 hours a week, and two-parent homes that work a combination of 50 hours a week. Keep in mind that the Child Care Group will not shoulder all the childcare costs.
But the good thing is it will give a subsidy depending on your income and the number of people in your household. You can enroll more than one child in the program if you qualify. The Child Care Group website has contact numbers and downloadable applications for subsidies for the different counties.
Head Start Program
The National Head Start Association is a nationwide program that’s dedicated to child learning and development. You can get subsidies and scholarships to help you pay for childcare for children five years old and below. If you are pregnant, you can also send your application for your unborn child. The waitlist is pretty long, so it’s never too early to start.
Military Assistance
The Childcare Aware program provides childcare subsidies to people in the military and their spouses. Just show a valid license, a state licensing inspection report that has been issued within the last 12 months, a national accreditation certificate, and forms from your childcare provider. One of the benefits of Military Assistance is that it has a much faster application process than other government programs, and you can expect a response within 10 business days.
Local Church Or Community Groups
Government organizations may take a while to process your application, and you may be put on a waitlist. Until then, you need to figure out how to pay for childcare. Local community groups or churches may be able to provide temporary help. Perhaps they can find someone who can take care of your kids for a few days a week, or give you some funds to cover a month or two of childcare.
If not, they may be able to refer you to a non-government organization or outreach program to help you with your childcare. While those groups may not have a specific fund for childcare costs, they may be able to help you with other needs such as food or utilities, which will free your budget so you can focus on adequate childcare.
Local Babysitters
It may be cheaper to get a babysitter than to enroll your child in daycare. Maybe a stay-at-home mom in your community may be willing to watch your kids in order to earn extra money. Ask neighbors or friends if they know anyone who might be interested. You can also use websites dedicated to connecting trustworthy babysitters and nannies with families.
Installment Loan
If you need to pay for childcare immediately, one option is to get an installment loan. You can borrow from $100 to $1,500 when you come to Texas Car Title and Payday Loan Services, Inc. for an installment loan. You can apply online and the nearest Texas installment loan location will give you a call to continue the process!
One of the benefits of the installment loan is that you can pay off the loan through regularly scheduled payments instead of a lump sum. It’s easier on the budget, and you can plan your finances accordingly. Furthermore, you just have to present your driver’s license, a checking account statement in your name, and proof of income like your most recent pay stub.
Learn About Paying For Childcare Costs Today
If you are a parent and are wondering how to pay for childcare, these options can help you out. There is no reason you should struggle with your childcare costs alone. And if you really have an emergency with your childcare, get an installment loan. Fill out the online form to get started on our simple process right now.
Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.