just a quick aside, yeah you change the amount of FTBA you get for your combined income, but FTBB doesn't cut out at $4000 - it is a sliding scale (like ftba) from $4000 to $20000 (or thereabouts)

i agree, it can be really difficult to still come out financially ahead if you go back to work and have to pay child care as well as all the normal expenses. it's something DH and ihave discussed in terms of starting the TTC journey. will be intersting to see what we decide on once we're actually PG!

good luck with making your decision Bathsheba - it's not an easy one!