Eligible employers receive matching funds to help employees afford quality child care. Dollar-for-dollar. Up to $1,500 per child per year.
Express Interest Now →Express your interest in 30 seconds. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Legal Disclaimer: Space in the Dallas County Employer Match Child Care Program is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Submitting this form does not guarantee enrollment. Program eligibility is subject to verification by Dallas County.
Judge Clay Jenkins and local entrepreneur Candace Johnson explain the program's real-world ROI and mission
Three powerful incentives that make child care benefits nearly cost-free
Dallas County matches your investment dollar-for-dollar. You invest $1,500 per child, the county adds $1,500. Your employees receive $3,000 in total support.
Boston Consulting Group data shows employer child care benefits generate 90% to 425% ROI through reduced turnover, lower absenteeism, and improved productivity.
The Section 45F Tax Credit allows employers to claim up to 50% of qualified child care expenditures — potentially recovering half your investment.
| Line Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Your contribution (per child/year) | $1,500 | Tax-deductible business expense |
| Dallas County match | +$1,500 | Dollar-for-dollar, no cost to you |
| Total family benefit | $3,000 | Per child per year |
| Less: Section 45F Tax Credit (up to 50%) | -$750 | Learn about 45F → |
| Your net cost per child | $750/year | $62.50/month per child |
* Section 45F credit subject to IRS limitations. Consult your tax advisor. Business expense deduction applies regardless.
Replacing an employee costs 50–200% of their salary. Child care benefits are the #1 most-requested benefit by working parents.
Child care breakdowns cause 65% of parents to miss work. Reliable care means reliable attendance.
Parents with stable child care are more focused, engaged, and productive. BCG data shows measurable gains.
Stand out in the Dallas job market. Child care benefits signal a family-friendly culture that attracts and retains the best.
Confirm your business qualifies before applying
Your business must be headquartered or have operations within Dallas County, Texas.
Business must be in good standing with Dallas County (current on taxes, licenses, and permits).
Employees must have children requiring child care and meet income guidelines (generally up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level).
Employer agrees to contribute up to $1,500 per child per year. Dallas County matches this amount dollar-for-dollar.
The $1M pilot has limited capacity. Applications are processed in the order received. Early applicants are prioritized.
Dallas County matches your child care contributions dollar-for-dollar, up to $1,500 per child per year. When you invest $1,500, the county adds $1,500, creating a $3,000 annual benefit per child for your employees. Payments go directly to child care providers.
According to Boston Consulting Group research, employer child care benefits generate 90% to 425% ROI through reduced turnover, lower absenteeism, and improved productivity. Combined with the Dallas County match and Section 45F tax credits, the net cost to employers can be as low as $62.50/month per child.
Section 45F of the Internal Revenue Code provides a federal tax credit of up to 50% of qualified child care expenditures (capped at $150,000/year). This means your $1,500 contribution could generate a $750 tax credit, reducing your net cost significantly. Learn more at 45f.org.
All industries are welcome — healthcare, manufacturing, technology, retail, hospitality, finance, education, construction, transportation, and more. The program is designed to support the diverse Dallas County economy.
Employers must be headquartered or have operations within Dallas County. Employees who work in Dallas County and meet income eligibility requirements can participate.
The Dallas County pilot has limited funding. Secure your spot and start offering child care benefits that practically pay for themselves.
Complete the Interest Form →