Help Paying for Preschool in Texas (2026)
Preschool is expensive, but Texas families have three main ways to lower or eliminate the cost: Head Start, public pre-K, and a childcare subsidy. Here's who qualifies for each — then check your family in seconds.
Could your family qualify for help? Check it
A quick, private estimate — nothing is stored unless you ask for reminders. This is guidance, not a determination.
✓ Sent. Next: find preschools near you.
Head Start & Early Head Start
Free, federally funded preschool (Head Start for ages 3–5, Early Head Start under 3). It's for families at or below the federal poverty line — or who qualify on other factors. Income limits in Texas (2026):
| Household size | Income at or below (100% FPL, 2026) |
|---|---|
| 3 | $27,320 |
| 4 | $33,000 |
| 5 | $38,680 |
| 6 | $44,360 |
You can also qualify regardless of income if your family is experiencing homelessness, your child is in foster care, or you receive SNAP, TANF, or SSI. Find a Head Start program in Texas →
Public pre-K in Texas
Texas's public pre-K, Texas Public Prekindergarten, is income- or risk-based (age 4 by September 1 plus an eligibility criterion (low-income, limited English, homeless, foster, or military/first-responder family)). Families under the program's income line — or who qualify on other factors (English learner, disability, foster, homeless) — can attend free. Official Texas program info →
Childcare subsidy in Texas
Separate from preschool programs, Texas's childcare subsidy — Child Care Services (CCS) — helps working families pay for care, for income up to up to 85% of the state median income (local boards may set a lower entry limit). Apply or learn more →
Preschools in Texas
See also: when your child can start school in Texas · how to afford preschool · how much preschool costs.