The child care subsidy program helps DC families pay for the cost of child care. The program supports families with low and moderate incomes to access high-quality education and care in the District.
Information for Families
To receive a child care voucher, a family must complete and submit an application. The application is used to determine a family’s eligibility based on factors such as need, income and family size. Families who receive child care subsidies can choose from a wide range of licensed child care providers who meet specific quality standards. With more than 250 child care providers participating in the child care subsidy program, DC families can find and access child care that meets their needs.
How to Apply
Families may apply for the DC child care subsidy program online, in person at the DC Department of Human Services (DHS) or in person at a Level II child care provider facility. Additionally, families experiencing homelessness may apply at the Virginia Williams Family Resources Center. More information on how to apply is available here.
Support is available for families who have questions or need assistance completing the application. Families may visit DHS or a Level II child care provider in person for support or contact DC Child Care Connections at (202) 829-2500 or [email protected].
Resources for families
- Child Care Subsidy Application
- Click here to complete the application process online
- Click here to download the application user guide (Español | Amharic)
- Click here to download a print application to bring to DHS or a Level II provider (Español | Amharic)
- Click here to download a flyer with information on how to apply for child care subsidies (Español | Amharic)
- Click here to complete the application process online
- FAQ for Families
- Income Eligibility Requirements Flyer (Español | Amharic)
- Child Care Subsidy Program Brochure (Español | Amharic)
Information for Child Care Providers
To participate in the child care subsidy program and serve families receiving child care vouchers, a child care provider must be licensed by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) and complete the subsidy agreement process designated by OSSE. Providers approved to participate in the subsidy program can serve families receiving child care vouchers for 100 percent of their licensed capacity.
Licensed child care providers that are interested in participating in the subsidy program should follow the steps below.
- Complete the subsidy orientation program. Follow the steps found here.
- Complete the subsidy provider application. Child care providers that complete the subsidy orientation program will be sent an application to complete and submit with supporting documentation.
- Complete the subsidy agreement. Child care providers that have their application approved will be sent a subsidy agreement for signature.
Resources for Child Care Providers