While California does not have a tri-share program, the following child care assistance options are available:
| Program | Type | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| First 5 California | Trust Fund | Proposition 10 tobacco tax funds supporting children birth to age 5 with $348M annually across 58 counties | Learn More |
| California Child Care Subsidy Program | Subsidy | State-funded subsidies for low-income families | Learn More |
| CalWORKs Child Care | Subsidy | Child care assistance for families receiving CalWORKs benefits | Learn More |
| Alternative Payment Programs | Voucher | Vouchers for families to choose their own provider | Learn More |
| California Employer Child Care Tax Credit | Tax Credit | State tax credit for employers providing child care assistance | Learn More |
Common questions about child care assistance in California
No, California does not currently have a statewide tri-share program. However, the state has significant alternative child care funding through First 5 California and various subsidy programs.
First 5 California is funded by Proposition 10 tobacco taxes and provides approximately $348 million annually for early childhood programs across all 58 California counties.
California offers First 5 programs, state child care subsidies, CalWORKs child care, Alternative Payment Programs, and employer tax credits for child care assistance.
Yes, California employers can offer duo-share programs, dependent care FSAs, and may qualify for state and federal tax credits for child care assistance.
California has some of the highest child care costs in the nation, with infant care averaging $16,000-$25,000 per year depending on location. San Francisco and the Bay Area have the highest costs.
Employers in California can implement a Duo-Share program immediatelyโa two-way cost split between employer and employee that can be launched in 60-90 days without waiting for government funding.
Learn About Duo-Share โOur team has helped launch child care cost-sharing programs across the country. Get expert guidance on program design, funding strategies, and implementation.
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