Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) is a subsidy program that helps pay for some or most of child care costs, depending on your income level. Most parents don't even know that they qualify. The income limits were raised again recently post-covid, so we urge all parents to see if they qualify.
Many parents don't even know that they qualify for assistance. Please check the income limit chart below to see if you qualify.
ODHS pays a portion of the child care bill, paid directly to the provider. They will pay up to the maximum amount, depending on the amount of hours that you are approved for and the copay you are given. Below is the chart for the maximum amounts they will pay, depending on how many hours they approve you for.
***The child care rates listed above are effective January 1, 2024
Note: Unless the child has a special circumstance, ERDC pays child care for children through age 12. Children will remain on the billing form through the end of the 12-month certification period when they turn 13.
If you are not working or don't qualify for ERDC, you can ask your DHS worker about the other two options available. JOBS and the TANF child care program can also help you pay for child care. If you are on TANF, they may help you pay for child care with the TANF child care program. While most of the different state programs will require the parent to still contribute to the expense, the TANF component is generally more flexible. It my eliminate that co-payment that is usually due. However, there is a Oregon maximum contribution limit so the parent may still need to pay. The third main resource is JOBS Child Care. Applicants need to be both on TANF and who are enrolled into JOBS self-sufficiency activities. A portion of your expenses will be reimbursed by the state. If you need child care help in order to participate in the Oregon JOBS program, ask your case manager or social worker so that they can help you apply.
Parents can be reimbursed by the state even while they work part-time. This is one of the many benefits that are offered.
