What is a requirement for child care expenses to be counted?

Child care expenses can be classified as allowable deductions in the Housing Choice Voucher program, but specific criteria must be met for these expenses to qualify. Care must be necessary for education or employment, as this directly relates to the family's ability to maintain their housing stability and enhance their income potential. If child care is essential for a parent to either work or attend school, it supports the family's effort to improve their economic situation and sustain housing.

This requirement acknowledges the dual role that child care plays – not just in taking care of children, but also in enabling parents or guardians to pursue jobs or education, which can lead to better financial stability. Thus, this specificity in the requirement ensures that only those child care expenses that are critical for a family's ability to work or gain education are deducted, reflecting the program's aim to promote self-sufficiency among participants.