District of Columbia Childcare Tax Credits (2026)
Federal Child and Dependent Care Credit, District of Columbia state credit, and CCDF subsidy eligibility in one place.
20–35%
Federal credit rate
40% of federal credit
District of Columbia state credit
$9,200/mo
CCDF income limit (family of 4)
Federal Child Care Tax Credit Calculator
Rates are the same nationwide — income determines your percentage (20–35%).
Your Estimated Federal Credit (Form 2441)
Credit Rate
Qualifying Expenses
Estimated Federal Credit
With FSA: Your $5,000 FSA reduces the credit's eligible expense base.
District of Columbia State Child Care Tax Credit
+
40% of federal credit
Washington DC allows a credit equal to 40% of the federal credit amount. Non-refundable.
State tax laws change. Verify with the District of Columbia Department of Revenue before filing.
District of Columbia Childcare Subsidy (CCDF)
Low- and moderate-income families may qualify for subsidized care through the federal CCDF program.
Income limit (family of 4)
$9,200/month
Max subsidy (infant center)
$1,500/month
Coverage of average infant cost
63%
Apply through
DC Child Care Subsidy Program →
Average Daycare Costs in District of Columbia (2026)
Infant center care
$2,400/month
Toddler center care
$2,100/month
Preschool center care
$1,800/month