Child Care Assistance

What is Child Care Assistance?

Child Care Assistance helps working families afford safe, quality child care. If you qualify, the government pays part or all of your child care costs directly to your provider. You pay only a small copayment based on your income — some families with very low incomes pay nothing.

Who can use this benefit?

You choose your own child care provider, including:

• Licensed child care centers
• Family child care homes
• Relatives (grandparents, aunts, uncles) who are registered as providers
• Neighbors or family friends who are registered

Your provider must be approved to accept Child Care Assistance before you start.

How much will I pay?

Your copayment is based on your family size and income. Families below the federal poverty level typically pay nothing. As income increases, copayments increase on a sliding scale.

Use our online calculator to estimate your copayment before you apply.

How to apply

Apply online, by phone, or in person at your local office. If you are already receiving SNAP or Medicaid, part of your application may be pre-filled automatically.

You will need:

1. Proof of identity and residency
2. Proof of income for all working adults in the household
3. Your child’s birth certificate
4. Name and address of your child care provider