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

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 approved 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: The state program covers children through age 12 (Harwell campuses are licensed for children aged 12 weeks and up).

2. State of Oregon ERDC Childcare Subsidies Accepted

Both Harwell School campuses (Beaverton on SW Jenkins Rd and Oregon City on S Marjorie Ln) are fully licensed with the State of Oregon and actively accept ERDC subsidy payments.

In accordance with Oregon DELC child wellness licensing regulations (OAR 414-300), daily schedules accommodate up to 10 hours of care.

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 verification letters.
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 campus directors can provide the required facility licensing numbers (DELC #CC503568) and provider documentation directly.