The County has one on-site child care center, Bright Horizons Child Care Center at the County Government Center in Redwood City. In addition, the County has established relationships with an additional child care providers in the County: PAL-Care in Burlingame.
Tuition Assistance Program
Tuition assistance is available to benefits-eligible San Mateo County and Courts employees who place their child(ren) at Bright Horizons or Palcare.
The Tuition Assistance Program is income-based and available to employees with a household income of $140,000 per year or less. Employees are expected to pay tuition ranging from 13% to 21% of their income towards childcare costs at one of these centers. The County provides assistance by paying the difference between that amount and the actual tuition rate.
The Tuition Assistance Program application provides complete program information, eligibility requirements and expectations. Please read it carefully.
To apply, complete the Tuition Assistance application and document your income to determine your initial eligibility for tuition assistance; you will be re-assessed every six months thereafter to assure your continued eligibility. Submit your completed application directly to the childcare center you have chosen.
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for Dependent Care Expenses
The County offers a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) program that allows you to pay dependent care expenses with pre-tax dollars that are taken out of your bi-weekly paycheck and set aside until you need them.
The open enrollment period for this benefit is during the first three weeks of October for the following calendar year. New employees may enroll within 31 days of employment.
