Child Care, Head Start, and Family Assistance Programs
Raising kids is expensive, and there's more help available than most families realize. From free preschool to child care subsidies to a tax credit worth up to $2,200 per child, these programs can meaningfully lower the cost of raising a family. Here's what's available and how to apply.
Head Start
Free, always
There is no cost to eligible families for Head Start — ever.
Child Tax Credit (2026)
Up to $2,200
Per qualifying child under 17. Partially refundable — claim it even with no tax owed.
Key Family & Child Care Programs
Two things worth knowing
- →Head Start is free — there is no cost to eligible families, ever. If a program asks eligible families to pay for core services, something is wrong.
- →CCDF waitlists exist in many states. Apply even if you're told the list is long — your spot in line only starts once you apply.
Trusted Resources
Trusted tools to help you claim what you've earned
Rocket Lawyer — Custody & Child Support Documents
Create and review custody agreements, child support paperwork, and other family-law documents online, with access to attorney help.
Get started with Rocket Lawyer →*TurboTax — Claim the Child Tax Credit
Guided tax filing that automatically calculates the Child Tax Credit and its refundable portion, so you don’t leave money behind.
Start filing with TurboTax →*"The Opposite of Spoiled" (Amazon)
A well-reviewed guide to raising grounded, generous kids and talking to them about money.
View on Amazon →*
* Affiliate disclosure: GovSifter may earn a commission from links above. This does not affect program listings or editorial content.