In a major effort to make child care more affordable for working families and strengthen Ohio’s workforce, Governor Mike DeWine has announced the official launch of the Child Care Cred Program, a $10 million initiative created through Ohio’s biennial budget for fiscal years 2026–2027.
The program addresses one of Ohio’s pressing challenges: the high cost of child care. By sharing the financial responsibility among families, employers and the state, the Child Care Cred Program aims to keep parents in the workforce without compromising on quality child care.
“The new Child Care Cred Program is designed to help Ohio’s families get access to childcare,” said Governor DeWine. “When parents have quality childcare, Ohio’s employers have productive employees who are not worried about their kids during work. It’s a win for working families and businesses.”
How the program works
The program splits monthly child care costs among:
- Employees (Families) – 40%
- Employers – 40%
- The State of Ohio – 20%
Ohio-based employers may opt into the program and work with their employees and child care providers to submit a joint application to the Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY).
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Eligibility Requirements
To qualify:
- Families must reside in Ohio.
- Employers must be Ohio-based.
- Household income must fall between 200% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) based on family size.
Income Guidelines by Family Size
| Family Size | Monthly Income Must Be Above (200% FPL) | And Below (400% FPL) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $3,525.00 | $7,050.00 |
| 3 | $4,442.00 | $8,884.00 |
| 4 | $5,359.00 | $10,717.00 |
| 5 | $6,275.00 | $12,550.00 |
| 6 | $7,192.00 | $12,550.00 |
| 7 | $8,109.00 | $16,217.00 |
| 8 | $9,025.00 | $18,050.00 |
How to apply
A joint application must be submitted by:
- The employee (family)
- The employer
- The child care provider
Completed applications must be sent to:
childcarecred@childrenandyouth.ohio.gov
Once approved, the family remains eligible as long as all parties continue to meet the program’s requirements.
The deadline to apply is May 1, 2026, with funding available through June 30, 2026.
State leaders back the program
The initiative has received strong bipartisan support from state legislators.
“Child care isn’t just a family issue, it’s a workforce issue,” said DCY Director Kara Wente. “This program makes care more affordable for parents while giving employers a practical way to support their teams.”
Representative Mark Johnson (R-Chillicothe) emphasized that the program eases the burden of rising child care costs, while Senator Michele Reynolds (R-Canal Winchester) called it “a significant step in solving Ohio’s childcare crisis.”
Senator Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster) added, “By creating a cost-sharing model… businesses can focus on their needs while maintaining a stable workforce.”
More support for Ohio families
The Child Care Cred Program is just one part of Governor DeWine’s broader efforts to improve child care access across Ohio. The state’s budget also expands eligibility for child care vouchers, increases early learning grants, and provides additional support for in-home providers.
Learn more
For full details, including how to apply and additional resources for employers and families, visit:
childrenandyouth.ohio.gov/for-partners/partner-resources/public-private-partnership
