Accepting Applications: Fall 2026 Academic Cohort
Beaverton (Across from Nike HQ): (503) 568-1883
Harwell School
Beaverton Oregon City
Accepting Applications: Fall 2026 Academic Cohort
Beaverton (Across from Nike HQ): (503) 568-1883
Harwell School
Beaverton Oregon City
Financial Support & Subsidies • Published September 2026 • 6 min read

Oregon ERDC Childcare Subsidy Guide (2026): How It Works & How to Apply

High-quality early childhood education shouldn't be out of reach. Here is what Oregon working families need to know about the Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program.

The state of Oregon's Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program helps working families, students, and parents seeking employment cover the cost of licensed childcare. Administered by the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) alongside the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC), the program pays a substantial portion of monthly tuition directly to approved child care centers.

1. Who Qualifies for ERDC in Oregon?

Under current 2026 guidelines, families generally qualify if they meet the following baseline requirements:

  • Residency: You must live in Oregon.
  • Activity Requirement: Parents or guardians must be employed, attending school/vocational training, participating in job search activities, or on medical leave.
  • Income Thresholds: Household income must fall within state income guidelines (typically up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level upon initial application, with exit limits extended up to 250% to prevent sudden cliff effects).
  • Child Age: Children from 6 weeks through age 12 (or up to age 17 if a child has qualifying special needs).

2. Understanding the Family Copay

Unlike voucher systems that mandate flat percentages, ERDC determines a sliding-scale monthly copayment based on family size and countable household income. In many cases, qualifying families pay as little as $0 to $50 per month toward their total childcare costs, with the state covering the remainder up to maximum provider rate caps.

Important note on provider choice: The State of Oregon requires that the childcare center be certified and registered as an active provider with DELC. Both Harwell School campuses (Beaverton and Oregon City) maintain active DHS certification and accept ERDC payments.

3. Step-by-Step: How to Apply

  1. Submit Your Application Online: Visit the official Oregon ONE system at one.oregon.gov or contact your local county ODHS office.
  2. Gather Income & Work Verification: Prepare recent pay stubs (typically the last 30 to 60 days), student schedules, or employer letters verifying working hours.
  3. Designate Your Provider: Once approved, notify your caseworker of your selected childcare center. Your center's director will complete a DELC Provider Listing Form to link your authorized hours to their billing portal.

4. Harwell School's Support for ERDC Families

We believe paperwork shouldn't be an obstacle between a child and a safe, enriching classroom. If you have an active ERDC caseworker or need assistance obtaining your provider listing paperwork for our Beaverton or Oregon City campuses, our directors can provide the required facility licensing numbers and provider documentation directly.

Call Campus