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Child Care Financial Assistance

Child care financial assistance (also known as subsidy) is a payment that helps eligible families with the cost of child care. Payments are made directly to child care providers.

Am I eligible for child care financial assistance?

To be eligible for child care financial assistance your family must:

  1. Have an accepted service need (or reason) for child care; and
  2. Meet current income guidelines.

Use the Subsidy PreScreening Tool to see if you qualify for child care benefits. It's quick and it's confidential.

How do I apply for child care financial assistance?

There are two ways to apply for assistance:

1. Apply online on the Bright Futures Information System.

This option allows you to:

  • Save your application and retrieve it using your system-generated ID — within 45 days; and
  • View the status of your previously submitted application.

2. Contact your local Community Child Care Support Agency.
You can get a paper copy of the application form as well as assistance.

What kind of child care is eligible to receive payments?

All regulated child care programs are eligible to receive fianancial assistance payments. Some people who are not registered or licensed to provide care may be eligible to receive payments. If you use someone who is not a regulated provider, you must have that person fill out a Legally Exempt Child Care Provider application, which is available from your local community child care support agency.

What if my provider charges more than the financial assistance I receive?

While financial assistance helps with the cost of child care, it typically does not cover the full cost. You are responsible for paying the difference between the subsidy amount and the fee.

Do I have to count financial assistance as taxable income?

These payments are generally considered taxable income; please talk to your tax preparer for more information about how to track these payments for income tax purposes.

Who can I call if I have a concern about financial assistance?

If you have a question or concern about child care financial assistance first call the child care eligibility specialist located in your local community child care support agency. 

If you are unable to have your questions or concerns addressed, you can call the Child Development Division at 1-800-649-2642. 

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