Camp is a life-changing experience — one that’s possible for every child and every budget. Parents looking for budget-friendly camps should keep the following in mind:
The American Camp Association generates a projected $216 million annually for camp scholarships. Don’t be afraid to call the camp director and ask if financial assistance is available. Contact the local Mid-South office of the American Camp Association. acacamps.org/heartofthesouth
Check with your church, synagogue, or place of worship.
Get in touch with social services groups in your community.
Visit individual camp websites. Most clearly outline whether or not they offer financial assistance for their campers.
Parents should inquire into whether the camp participates in income-eligible subsidy programs and other assistance programs.
For day camps:
A Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account allows parents to be reimbursed on a pre-tax basis for child care expenses (for qualified dependents) that are necessary to allow parents to work, look for work, or to attend school full time. Visit the FSA Feds website at fsafeds.com for more information.
In certain circumstances, day care expenses, including transportation by a care provider, may be considered dependent care services and paid with pre-tax dollars. Visit the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website at irs.gov for more information.
Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit: The IRS allows an income tax credit of up to $6,000 of dependent care expenses if you have two or more dependents (up to $3,000 for one dependent). The amount of the credit is based on your adjusted gross income and applies only to your federal taxes. This applies to qualifying day camp expenses. Visit the FSA Feds website for more information.
Source: American Camp Association