How to use this result
The maximum childcare budget depends on what you want the shift to leave for your time. Set the target to zero to find the point where the shift stops producing positive cash after the entered costs.
A negative childcare budget means the pay does not reach your target even with free care. It is a shortfall, not a suggestion that a provider should charge a negative price.
The formula
Worked example
Using the example inputs loaded above:
$62.50
Childcare budget at your target rate.
Common questions
Should the childcare amount include care during my commute?
Yes. Compare this total budget with the full booking cost, including travel and any minimum booking duration.
Does this account for dependent-care tax benefits?
No. It uses one deduction assumption and does not calculate credits, reimbursements, or benefit eligibility.
Assumptions & references
Amounts use USD. Results are planning estimates using your entries, with dollars rounded only for display. Each tool covers the model described here; it does not determine payroll or tax obligations. Read the calculation methodology.
This is arithmetic based on user-supplied assumptions; it does not use external wage or price data.
Formula version 1.0 · Reference check: September 7, 2026 · Report a calculation issue