Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Texas
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical guide for single moms in Texas who need help paying for child care. Every number and rule below comes from official sources and is verified as of August–September 2025.
Quick help (read this first)
- Apply online for Texas child care scholarships (CCS) here: Texas Child Care Connection – Statewide application and portal. This is the fastest path to get on the list in your region. Effective statewide since January 13, 2025. (tx3c.info, twc.texas.gov)
- If you can’t find care or have questions about your local office, use the official locator: TWC Directory – Find Child Care Assistance by ZIP code or call the TWC main line at 800-628-5115. (apps.twc.texas.gov, twc.texas.gov)
- Income limit to qualify: families must be at or below 85% of the State Median Income (SMI). Example: family of 2 up to 4,971/month∗∗,familyof3upto∗∗4,971/month**, family of 3 up to **6,141/month, family of 4 up to $7,311/month (effective Oct 1, 2024 – Sep 30, 2025). See the full chart below. (twc.texas.gov)
- Minimum activity hours: single parents must work and/or attend school or training an average of at least 25 hours/week; two‑parent families need 50 hours/week combined. (law.cornell.edu)
- Copays are capped: your “parent share of cost” cannot be more than 7% of your income. See examples below. (casetext.com)
- Lost your job or underemployed? You can get up to 3 months of job‑search child care within a 12‑month eligibility period if you meet income rules; during the first 3 months your copay is temporarily $0. You must hit the 25‑hour standard (with at least 12 hours in employment) by the end of month 3 to keep care for the rest of the year. (law.cornell.edu)
- Find open child care seats and see quality ratings: Texas Child Care Availability Portal and Search Texas Child Care (licensing inspections). (tx3c.info, hhs.texas.gov)
- Need other support (rent, utilities, diapers, local Head Start, etc.)? Call 2‑1‑1 or visit 2‑1‑1 Texas (HHSC info for parents) to search statewide resources. (hhs.texas.gov)
What is CCS and who runs it?
Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) runs the Child Care Services (CCS) scholarship program using federal CCDF funds. TWC funds 28 local Workforce Solutions Boards that manage waitlists, eligibility, and payments in your region. You apply once statewide via Texas Child Care Connection (TX3C); your local Board manages your case. (twc.texas.gov)
Reality check:
- Many areas keep waitlists. TWC publishes monthly dashboards, and Texas newspapers have reported long waits in big metros. Plan to apply immediately and keep documents ready (more on timelines below). (ccbn.twc.texas.gov, houstonchronicle.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you get stuck or don’t hear back, call your Board or the TWC main line 800-628-5115 and use the TWC Directory to locate your child care office by ZIP code. Add yourself to Head Start/Early Head Start and district Pre‑K lists at the same time to create multiple options. (apps.twc.texas.gov, twc.texas.gov)
Do I qualify? The fast checklist
- You live in Texas and your child is under 13 (or under 19 with a disability). (casetext.com)
- You are a U.S. citizen or a qualifying immigrant, per federal rules. (Child’s status matters for the child in care.) (casetext.com)
- Your gross income is at or below 85% of SMI for your family size (see table). (twc.texas.gov)
- You meet activity hours: single parent averages 25 hrs/week working and/or in school or training. If you’re not there yet, you may qualify for job‑search child care for up to 3 months inside a 12‑month eligibility period. (law.cornell.edu)
- Priority groups (served first when funds exist): TANF Choices, SNAP E&T, Transitional (recently left TANF), Protective Services, veterans/spouses, foster youth, families experiencing homelessness, teen parents, and children with disabilities. Some of these groups pay $0 copay. (casetext.com)
Texas CCS income limits (85% State Median Income, BCY 2025)
Effective Oct 1, 2024 – Sep 30, 2025 (use this to pre‑check eligibility; your Board will confirm)
| Family size | Monthly income at 85% SMI | Annual income at 85% SMI |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3,802 | $45,620 |
| 2 | $4,971 | $59,657 |
| 3 | $6,141 | $73,694 |
| 4 | $7,311 | $87,731 |
| 5 | $8,481 | $101,768 |
| 6 | $9,650 | $115,805 |
| 7 | $9,870 | $118,437 |
| 8 | $10,089 | $121,069 |
Source: TWC BCY2025 Income Limits (based on HHS FY2025 SMI). (twc.texas.gov)
Reality check:
- Local Boards must follow statewide income thresholds, but waitlist and intake timing vary a lot by county. Apply early, respond fast to any requests, and keep copies of what you upload.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re over the income limit for CCS, check free public Pre‑K eligibility (see below), apply for Head Start/Early Head Start, and ask your employer about Dependent Care FSA and the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit. (tea.texas.gov, irs.gov)
How much will I pay each month? (Parent Share of Cost)
Texas sets a statewide sliding‑fee scale. Your copay (Parent Share of Cost or “PSoC”) is set at eligibility and cannot exceed 7% of your family income during the 12‑month period. Some groups (TANF Choices, SNAP E&T, families experiencing homelessness, Protective Services) have copays waived. (casetext.com)
Below are real examples from the official 2025 PSoC chart (effective Jan 13, 2025 – Sep 30, 2025). Your Board will calculate your exact amount based on family size, income, and number of kids in care.
| Example family | Monthly income | Monthly copay (total) | Weekly copay (per 1st child) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family of 2 at 60% SMI | $3,510 | $208 | $47 |
| Family of 3 at 60% SMI | $4,335 | $296 | $58 |
| Family of 4 at 60% SMI | $5,161 | $352 | $70 |
| Family of 5 at 60% SMI | $5,986 | $409 | $81 |
Source: TWC BCY2025 PSoC Sliding Fee Scale. Note: small additions apply for each additional child until the 7% cap. Copays are assessed weekly to match provider payments. (twc.texas.gov, content.govdelivery.com)
Reality check:
- Copays don’t go up mid‑year unless you add another child. If your hours drop temporarily or you change jobs, CCS generally continues for up to 3 months while you stabilize. If you truly can’t afford the copay temporarily, ask your Board about short‑term reductions due to hardship. (law.cornell.edu, casetext.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a provider charges more than the Board’s max rate, you may owe a difference. Ask your Board for a list of CCS‑contracted providers that match your budget, and filter for quality (Texas Rising Star 3‑ or 4‑Star) to stretch your CCS dollars. (casetext.com)
How much will CCS pay the provider?
Boards pay providers up to regional maximums that vary by age and provider type (center vs. home) and are higher for Texas Rising Star (TRS) quality levels. As an example, in the Houston–Gulf Coast area (Board 28), licensed center full‑day infant rates (0–11 months) effective Jan 13, 2025 range roughly 46.60–46.60–51.40/day, with higher rates for TRS 2–4 stars. Rates differ by age. Always check your Board’s current rate sheet. (twc.texas.gov)
State rules require at least a 5–9% enhancement over non‑TRS rates (2‑Star +5%, 3‑Star +7%, 4‑Star +9%) and allow higher inclusion rates for children with disabilities (up to 190% of the base rate when justified by need). (casetext.com)
Where to see rates:
- Download the official BCY2025 rate book and scroll to your Board’s pages. (twc.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If the provider’s published price is higher than the Board’s max, ask about sliding‑scale scholarships, sibling discounts, or choose a TRS provider with a rate at or under the Board maximum to avoid out‑of‑pocket differences. (casetext.com)
Step‑by‑step: how to apply (and get through faster)
- Create your account and complete the eligibility screener at Texas Child Care Connection (TX3C). This queues you with your local Board. (tx3c.info)
- If asked for child care options, search the Texas Child Care Availability Portal for open seats and the Search Texas Child Care site for compliance history. Save 2–3 backup providers. (tx3c.info, hhs.texas.gov)
- If you’re unemployed or underemployed, select “job search” child care (up to 3 months with a $0 temporary copay). You must reach the 25 hrs/week activity with at least 12 hours of work by the end of month 3 to continue care for the rest of the 12‑month period. (law.cornell.edu)
- If you’re in a priority group (TANF Choices, SNAP E&T, Protective Services, veteran/spouse, foster youth, homelessness, teen parent, child with disabilities), flag it. Some priorities mean faster access and/or $0 copay. (casetext.com)
- Answer any Board emails/texts quickly—missing a 48‑hour follow‑up can send your spot to the next family.
- Stay reachable. TX3C uses emails from no‑reply@childcare.texas.gov and sometimes system texts; add them to your safe senders. (tx3c.info)
Application checklist (what to upload)
- Photo ID and proof you live in Texas (license, lease, utility bill).
- Birth certificate(s) or official records for each child; proof of citizenship/eligible status for the child in care per federal rules. (casetext.com)
- Proof of income for the last 30 days (pay stubs, award letters); if self‑employed, recent ledger or tax docs.
- Work/school/training schedule:
- Work: pay stubs or employer letter with hours;
- School/training: class schedule; count 3 hrs/week per college credit hour (condensed courses count more). Teen parents in high school meet the education test. (law.cornell.edu)
- If claiming a priority: TANF/SNAP E&T participation, homelessness verification, DFPS referral, veteran status, disability documentation if seeking inclusion rate.
- Provider choice form (you can change later if a better seat opens).
Pro tip: Upload PDFs or clear photos, label files (e.g., “Smith_paystub_08‑15”), and submit as one packet to avoid back‑and‑forth delays.
Timelines: what to expect
- Decision time varies by Board and funding. Some families are placed quickly; others may wait months. TWC’s dashboard shows monthly numbers; news reports cited weeks to months in large metros. Expect longer waits for infant rooms. (ccbn.twc.texas.gov, houstonchronicle.com)
- If you qualify for job‑search child care, your initial approval is up to 3 months; if you meet the hour requirements within that window, care continues for the rest of 12 months. (law.cornell.edu)
- Redetermination is every 12 months. Your copay won’t go up mid‑year unless you add a child in care. Temporary drops in hours or a job change are covered for up to 3 months. (casetext.com, law.cornell.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- While on the waitlist, grab other options: district Pre‑K (free for eligible 4‑year‑olds; many offer for 3‑year‑olds), Head Start/Early Head Start, faith‑based sliding‑scale centers, and employer benefits (DCFSA). See below for links and numbers. (tea.texas.gov)
Choosing a provider (quality, safety, availability)
Start with Texas Rising Star (TRS) providers (2‑, 3‑, or 4‑Star). They meet higher standards and get enhanced CCS reimbursement. Use:
- Texas Child Care Availability Portal (to see open seats): Find child care near me. (tx3c.info)
- Search Texas Child Care (licensing/inspections): Check compliance history. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Learn about TRS: Texas Rising Star overview. (twc.texas.gov)
Reality check:
- Infant spots are tight statewide. Have 2–3 backups. If your first choice can’t take CCS yet, ask if they’ll join TRS or when an opening is expected.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your Board if relative care is an option for your family (policies vary). Use 2‑1‑1 to scan YWCA/YMCA or city programs with sliding scales while you wait. (hhs.texas.gov)
If your child has a disability
- CCS can pay an “inclusion rate” up to 190% of the usual reimbursement to help providers add staff/equipment when needed, with professional certification of need. Ask your Board about the Inclusion Assistance Rate (Form CC‑2419). (casetext.com, twc.texas.gov)
- Providers must follow the ADA and cannot charge you for reasonable modifications. (twc.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a provider says they can’t meet your child’s needs, call your Board to initiate inclusion supports and use Search Texas Child Care to find programs with experience serving children with similar needs. (hhs.texas.gov)
Special cases that can move you faster
- TANF Choices, SNAP E&T, Transitional (recently left TANF): first priority and copay exemptions apply. Ask your caseworker for a direct referral. (casetext.com)
- Protective Services (DFPS), homelessness, veteran/spouse, foster youth, teen parents, children with disabilities: second‑priority groups with special rules. Flag this in your TX3C application. (casetext.com)
- Job‑search child care: up to 3 months at $0 copay initially, then the rest of 12 months if you meet the hour rules by the deadline. (law.cornell.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you believe you’re in a priority group but weren’t treated as such, call your Board, ask for a supervisor review, and document your proof (letters, orders, DFPS referral, homelessness verification).
Pre‑K (public schools), Head Start, and Military Fee Assistance
Start these in parallel with your CCS application to avoid gaps.
Free public Pre‑K (school districts)
- If your child is 4 by September 1 and meets any state criteria (low income, limited English proficiency, homelessness, foster care, military, Star of Texas award), districts must offer full‑day (75,600 minutes) high‑quality Pre‑K for eligible 4‑year‑olds. Many districts also offer 3‑year‑old programs. Enrollment is through your ISD. (tea.texas.gov)
- Details and eligibility: TEA Prekindergarten FAQs and Pre‑K Registration & Enrollment. (tea.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your ISD is full, ask about nearby districts or charter schools with open Pre‑K seats, and combine with wraparound after‑school care using CCS once you’re approved.
Head Start / Early Head Start (birth–5)
- No tuition for income‑eligible families (generally at or below 100% of HHS Poverty Guidelines; some over‑income slots allowed; automatic eligibility for foster care, homelessness, and some public benefits). Use the Head Start Locator to apply near you. (eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)
- Find a program: ECLKC – Head Start Locator or the Texas Head Start Collaboration Office map. (eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov, txhsco.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Join more than one local Head Start waitlist and check district Pre‑K again in the spring and mid‑year when seats open.
Military families (active‑duty, Guard/Reserve on orders, DoD civilians)
- If on‑base care is full or far away, the MCCYN and MCCYN‑PLUS Fee Assistance programs can pay a monthly stipend directly to your civilian provider. Start at MilitaryChildCare.com and complete a profile; Child Care Aware of America administers fee assistance. (public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil, childcareaware.org)
- Learn more and apply: MilitaryChildCare.com – Families, Army MCCYN, and Child Care Aware – Military Fee Assistance. (public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil, childcareaware.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your branch help desk about exceptions if there’s no eligible provider nearby. Keep your MCC waitlist requests active; fee assistance offers can be time‑sensitive. (militaryfamily.org)
Taxes and credits you can use at filing time
- The federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) lets you claim up to 3,000∗∗ineligibleexpensesforonechildor∗∗3,000** in eligible expenses for one child or **6,000 for two or more; the nonrefundable credit equals 20–35% of eligible expenses depending on AGI. File IRS Form 2441 with your 1040. See IRS Publication 503 for current details. (irs.gov)
- Texas has no state income tax, so there’s no separate Texas child care credit.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your employer about a Dependent Care FSA (pre‑tax payroll set‑aside). If you get CCS, track any out‑of‑pocket costs and talk to a tax preparer so you don’t double‑claim the same dollars.
Real‑world examples (how the math works)
- Mia, family of 2, earns 3,510/month∗∗(603,510/month** (60% SMI). Her monthly copay is **208 (about $47/week). CCS pays her TRS‑rated center’s published rate up to the Board max; she pays her copay only. (twc.texas.gov)
- Ana, family of 3, lost her job. She’s approved for job‑search child care with $0 copay for up to 3 months. By week 10 she starts a 20‑hour job and adds 6 classroom hours (each college credit = 3 hours/week). That meets the 25 hrs/week rule and her care continues for the rest of the 12‑month period. (law.cornell.edu)
- Joy’s 5‑year‑old has a disability. Her Board authorizes an inclusion rate so the provider can add an aide. The rate can go up to 190% of the base reimbursement if certified by a qualified professional. (casetext.com)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not applying because you “heard the wait is long.” Getting on the list is step one; funding and movement happen year‑round. Add Head Start/Pre‑K options in parallel. (ccbn.twc.texas.gov)
- Missing emails from TX3C. Add no‑reply@childcare.texas.gov to your safe list and check weekly. (tx3c.info)
- Choosing a provider before checking inspections. Always look up compliance history at Search Texas Child Care. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Not reporting changes. Tell your Board within their deadlines if you change jobs, hours, or address to avoid interruptions.
- Forgetting the 3‑month job‑search clock. If you don’t meet the hour requirements by the end of month 3, care ends. Set reminders. (law.cornell.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B options)
- Use 2‑1‑1 to locate sliding‑scale centers (YWCA, YMCA, church‑based programs), emergency aid, and waitlist alternatives in your county. Dial 2‑1‑1 or visit 211texas.org. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Add your child to Head Start/Early Head Start and district Pre‑K lists. These are free if eligible and can cover a full day with before/after care. (eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov, tea.texas.gov)
- Military families: keep your MilitaryChildCare.com account active and pursue fee assistance via Child Care Aware. (public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil)
Local contacts you can actually use
- Statewide finder: TWC Directory – Find Child Care Assistance by ZIP. After selecting “Child Care Assistance,” you’ll see your local Workforce Solutions number and website. (apps.twc.texas.gov)
- Texas Workforce Commission (main): 800-628-5115. (twc.texas.gov)
- Houston area (Gulf Coast): Workforce Solutions Financial Aid Support Center 713-334-5980; text 346-249-7700; help with child care scholarships and case changes. (wrksolutions.com)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Apply here (statewide): Texas Child Care Connection (TX3C). (tx3c.info)
- Find open seats + quality: Availability Portal + Search Texas Child Care. (tx3c.info, hhs.texas.gov)
- Income limit (85% SMI): family of 2 4,971/mo∗∗,3∗∗4,971/mo**, 3 **6,141/mo, 4 $7,311/mo. Full table above. (twc.texas.gov)
- Copay cap: ≤ 7% of your income; see PSoC examples. (casetext.com)
- Job‑search child care: up to 3 months at $0 copay initially; must reach 25 hrs/week activity (with 12 hrs in employment) to continue through month 12. (law.cornell.edu)
- Help line for other resources: 2‑1‑1 (24/7) or HHSC Parent Information page. (hhs.texas.gov)
Tables you can use right now
A) Eligibility at a glance (single‑parent household)
| Requirement | What it means |
|---|---|
| Child’s age | Under 13 (or under 19 with disability) |
| Income | At or below 85% SMI for family size (see table above) |
| Activity hours | Average 25 hrs/week work/school/training |
| Residency & status | Live in Texas; child is U.S. citizen or qualifying immigrant |
| Priority groups | TANF/Choices, SNAP E&T, Transitional, DFPS protective, veteran/spouse, foster youth, homelessness, teen parents, child with disabilities |
Sources: Texas Administrative Code (40 TAC 809) and TWC program guidance. (casetext.com, law.cornell.edu)
B) Parent Share of Cost (copay) – selected examples, BCY2025
| Family size | 60% SMI monthly income | Monthly copay (total) | Weekly copay (first child) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | $3,510 | $208 | $47 |
| 3 | $4,335 | $296 | $58 |
| 4 | $5,161 | $352 | $70 |
| 5 | $5,986 | $409 | $81 |
Source: TWC PSoC BCY2025 sliding fee scale (effective Jan 13, 2025 – Sep 30, 2025). (twc.texas.gov)
C) Which program fits my child (by age/situation)
| Child’s age/situation | Best first call | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Birth–2 | CCS; Early Head Start | Subsidy for full‑day care; EHS is free if eligible |
| Age 3 | CCS + ISD Pre‑K 3 (if offered) + Head Start | Mix school‑day Pre‑K with CCS for wraparound |
| Age 4 | ISD Pre‑K 4 (full‑day if eligible) + CCS for before/after care | State law requires full‑day Pre‑K for eligible 4‑year‑olds |
| School‑age | CCS for before/after/summer care | Board rates cover school‑age slots, too |
| Military family | MilitaryChildCare.com + Child Care Aware | Fee assistance when base care is full |
Sources: TEA Pre‑K, TWC CCS, Head Start, Military Child Care. (tea.texas.gov, twc.texas.gov, eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov, public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil)
D) Example regional contact options
| Area | How to connect |
|---|---|
| Statewide | TWC Directory – find your Board by ZIP or call 800-628-5115 |
| Houston–Gulf Coast | Workforce Solutions Financial Aid Support Center 713-334-5980 (text 346-249-7700) |
| Anywhere (non‑CCS resources) | Dial 2‑1‑1 or see HHSC Parent Information |
Sources: TWC, Workforce Solutions Gulf Coast, HHSC. (apps.twc.texas.gov, twc.texas.gov, wrksolutions.com, hhs.texas.gov)
Diverse communities: tailored tips and resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
- Many TRS programs offer inclusive environments. When searching, ask about family policies and staff training. If you encounter discrimination, report it via the provider’s licensing page on Search Texas Child Care. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or raising a child with disabilities
- Request an inclusion rate (up to 190% of the base rate) so your provider can staff appropriately. Ask your Board how to start the Inclusion Assistance process (Form CC‑2419). (twc.texas.gov)
- Veteran single mothers
- Use 2‑1‑1 to find veteran‑specific supports (child care, housing, transportation). If you’re DoD civilian or military‑connected, check MCCYN fee assistance. (hhs.texas.gov, public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms
- CCS bases child eligibility on federal rules (citizenship/eligible status), and 2‑1‑1 offers multilingual support. Ask your Board for language assistance if you need help with forms. (casetext.com, hhs.texas.gov)
- Tribal citizens
- If you are enrolled in a federally recognized tribe, check for Tribal CCDF child care assistance through your tribe and apply to CCS in parallel; your local Board can coordinate. Use 2‑1‑1 to locate tribal program contacts in Texas. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Rural single moms
- Use the Availability Portal to scan a wider radius and ask your Board about relative care options and transportation supports. If your area is a child care desert, expect fewer openings—apply early and keep multiple providers on your list. (tx3c.info)
- Single fathers
- Same rules and access as single mothers. If you meet the activity and income rules, apply via TX3C and list all children in the home.
- Language access
- TWC and 2‑1‑1 provide assistance in many languages. If you receive notices you can’t read, call your Board and request language support right away. (hhs.texas.gov)
Local organizations, charities, and support
- 2‑1‑1 Texas (24/7 resource navigation): 2‑1‑1; helps you find sliding‑scale child care, Head Start, rental help, and more. See HHSC’s parent info page for links. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Houston area: Workforce Solutions Gulf Coast child care helpline 713-334-5980; text 346-249-7700. (wrksolutions.com)
- Your school district: ask the Early Childhood/Pre‑K office about seats, waitlists, and transportation; start with TEA’s Pre‑K info if you’re unsure. (tea.texas.gov)
10 Texas‑specific FAQs (fast answers)
- How old can my child be?
- Under 13, or under 19 if your child has a disability. (casetext.com)
- How much income can I have and still qualify?
- Up to 85% of SMI for your family size (e.g., family of 3 up to $6,141/mo). See the full chart above. (twc.texas.gov)
- How many hours do I need to work or study?
- Single parent: average 25 hrs/week; two‑parent: 50 hrs/week combined. College hrs count (3 hrs/week per credit hour). (law.cornell.edu)
- What if I lose my job after I’m approved?
- You generally keep care for up to 3 months during a temporary interruption while you regain hours. (law.cornell.edu)
- What is my copay?
- It’s a sliding amount based on income/family size, capped at 7% of your income. Some groups have $0 copay. See examples above. (casetext.com)
- How long does approval take?
- Timing varies by Board and funding. Some areas have multi‑month waits; apply early and keep Head Start/Pre‑K as backups. (ccbn.twc.texas.gov, houstonchronicle.com)
- Can CCS pay relatives?
- Relative care can be an option depending on Board policy and requirements. Ask your local Board when you apply (policies vary). Use the TWC Directory to contact your Board. (apps.twc.texas.gov)
- Do I have to use a Texas Rising Star provider?
- Providers serving CCS children must participate in TRS (Entry Level within 24 months to star‑level). TRS providers receive higher reimbursement; families often see better quality. (twc.texas.gov)
- Are there other programs that can help?
- District Pre‑K (free for eligible 4‑year‑olds), Head Start/Early Head Start, and Military Fee Assistance for eligible families. (tea.texas.gov, eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov, public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil)
- Can I also claim a tax credit?
- Yes. The federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit is up to 3,000∗∗/onechildor∗∗3,000**/one child or **6,000/two+; percentage depends on AGI. See IRS Publication 503 and Form 2441 instructions. (irs.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the Texas Workforce Commission, Texas Education Agency, HHSC, ACF/ECLKC, IRS, and established nonprofit partners. We follow our Editorial Standards for source verification and fast corrections. We provide direct links to state and federal portals and update figures on a regular schedule.
Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026. Email info@asinglemother.org with corrections (responses within 48 hours).
Disclaimer
Program rules, provider rates, copay schedules, and eligibility thresholds change. Numbers and dates above are the most current available as of August–September 2025. Always confirm with your local Workforce Solutions office, your school district, or the official agency site before making decisions.
Key sources used for this guide:
- TWC CCS program overview, TX3C portal and parent info. (twc.texas.gov)
- TWC BCY2025 Income Limits (85% SMI). (twc.texas.gov)
- TWC BCY2025 Parent Share of Cost chart and weekly copay shift. (twc.texas.gov, content.govdelivery.com)
- Texas Administrative Code 40 TAC Chapter 809: eligibility, hours, copay cap, priorities, inclusion rate, job‑search child care, 12‑month stability. (casetext.com, law.cornell.edu)
- TWC Provider Payment Rates (BCY2025) and Texas Rising Star. (twc.texas.gov)
- TEA Prekindergarten eligibility and full‑day requirement for eligible 4‑year‑olds. (tea.texas.gov)
- Head Start/Early Head Start locator and eligibility basics. (eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov)
- MilitaryChildCare.com, Child Care Aware of America fee assistance. (public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil, childcareaware.org)
- HHSC parent information page (2‑1‑1 and other resources). (hhs.texas.gov)
If you find outdated links or numbers, please tell us at info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it promptly.
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- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
