Pennsylvania Childcare Subsidies & Assistance Programs (2026)
Pennsylvania's Child Care Works program, Pre-K Counts, and Head Start Supplemental Assistance provide significant childcare support for working families. Here's every program available and how to apply.
Available Programs
| Program | Ages | Eligibility | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child Care Works | 0–12 | Below 200% FPL, working or in school | Subsidized childcare at certified providers |
| Pre-K Counts | 3–4 | Below 300% FPL, at-risk criteria | Free preschool, min 5.5 hrs/day, 180 days |
| Head Start Supplemental Assistance | 3–4 | Below 100% FPL | State-funded expansion of Head Start slots |
| TANF Child Care | 0–12 | TANF recipients | Childcare during work activities |
| Head Start / Early Head Start | 0–5 | Below 100% FPL | Free comprehensive early childhood program |
Child Care Works Income Eligibility (2026)
| Family Size | 200% FPL (entry) | 235% FPL (exit) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $36,000 | $42,000 |
| 3 | $46,000 | $54,000 |
| 4 | $55,000 | $65,000 |
| 5 | $65,000 | $76,000 |
Income limits are updated annually. Families can remain enrolled in Child Care Works until income reaches 235% FPL.
How to Apply
- Apply online: Visit compass.state.pa.us to apply for Child Care Works and other benefits.
- Apply by phone: Call 1-800-692-7462 for assistance with Child Care Works applications.
- County assistance office: Visit your local County Assistance Office to apply in person. Find yours at dhs.pa.gov.
- Pre-K Counts: Contact a Pre-K Counts provider directly or call 1-800-328-1440. Apply early — slots are limited.
- Gather documents: Proof of income, Pennsylvania residency, child's birth certificate, and work or school verification.
Wait times: Pennsylvania has been expanding access, but popular programs like Pre-K Counts have limited slots. Apply to multiple programs simultaneously.
Pennsylvania State Tax Benefits
- Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Credit: Pennsylvania offers a state tax credit equal to 30% of the federal Child and Dependent Care Credit for families earning under $30,000, phasing down to 10% for incomes up to $43,000.
- Federal benefits apply: Pennsylvania families also benefit from the federal Dependent Care FSA (save up to $1,480+/year) and the federal Child and Dependent Care Credit (up to $2,100 for two children).
See our Childcare Tax Benefits Guide for strategies to maximize savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for Child Care Works in Pennsylvania?
Child Care Works covers families below 200% FPL — about $46,000/year for a family of 3. Families can remain enrolled until income reaches 235% FPL (~$54,000).
What is Pre-K Counts in Pennsylvania?
Pre-K Counts provides free, high-quality preschool for at-risk 3- and 4-year-olds at or below 300% FPL (~$69,000 for a family of 3). It runs 5.5 hours/day for 180 days at approved providers.
How do I apply for childcare assistance in Pennsylvania?
Apply online at compass.state.pa.us, by phone at 1-800-692-7462, or at your local County Assistance Office. For Pre-K Counts, call 1-800-328-1440.
Calculate Pennsylvania Childcare Costs
See childcare cost estimates for your Pennsylvania zip code, including tax savings and subsidy eligibility.
Calculate Your Costs