Backup Child Care

2024 Plan Information

Child Care Centers and In-Home Options

When your regular child care arrangements fall through, take advantage of these programs, managed by Bright Horizons, which give you access to a national network of child care centers and in-home caregivers.

BACKUP CHILD CARE CENTERS

  • To arrange for care at a local center in the Bright Horizons network, visit Bright Horizons’ website (login information below) or use the mobile app.
  • The cost to you is $20 per day for one child, or $35 per day for two or more children.* The Firm subsidizes this amount.
  • You are eligible for up to 40 days of care each year to use (includes child and/or adult care).
  • You may reserve a space up to 90 days in advance (up from 60, effective June 1, 2023).
  • Most centers accommodate children aged 6 weeks to 12 years. The age range varies by state, so check with the care center you intend to use.

IN-HOME BACKUP CHILD CARE

As an alternative to dropping off your child at a Bright Horizons daycare center when your regular care arrangements fall through, you can arrange for a caregiver to come to your home. Pre-registration required.

  • The cost for in-home care is $8 an hour,* with a 4-hour minimum and a 10-hour maximum each day. The Firm subsidizes the cost of care. Note: You can also arrange for a caregiver for an adult. Learn more.
  • If Bright Horizons cannot find an in-home caregiver in its network, you may arrange for “out-of-network” care yourself by a family member, neighbor, friend, regular babysitter, etc. — and be reimbursed $100 a day by Bright Horizons to cover that cost. You are responsible for all other costs associated with care beyond the $100 per diem.

*Note: Employees will see imputed income of $75 per child or adult per day of care on their last paycheck of the calendar year.
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TOP REASONS FOR USING BACKUP CHILD CARE

  • You need a break from balancing your work and managing your child’s at-home schooling.
  • You have a new child (congratulations!) and need care while you transition back to a normal work schedule.
  • Your child’s school or child care center is closed for a break, teacher in-service day or inclement weather.
  • Your stay-at-home spouse is called in for jury duty or has an appointment.
  • You’re in-between child care arrangements.
  • Anytime your regular day care provider is temporarily unavailable.