Child Care Assistance in New Jersey

The state of New Jersey currently offers child care assistance for several programs within its state. Those who participate in Work First New Jersey are automatically qualified for financial assistance with child care. Center Based Contracted Child Care Centers work with New Jersey licensed child care providers to offer financial assistance with quality care providers for families in need. The state runs a subsidy program called New Jersey Cares for Kids that pays for a portion of a care provider of eligible parents’ choice. To learn more about the services that New Jersey has to offer, visit Child and Family Resources.

How to get started:
To get started in the enrollment process, find the programs in your area by using the online Head Start Locator.

Many programs use the Federal Poverty Line as a guide for financial assistance with child care. If your annual income is at or below the poverty line, you may qualify for financial help. These are the guidelines:

• A family of 1 must make less than $11,490 per year.


• A family of 2 must make less than $15,510 per year.


• A family of 3 must make less than $19,530 per year.


• A family of 4 must make less than $23,550 per year.


• A family of 5 must make less than $27,570 per year.


• A family of 6 must make less than $31,590 per year.


• A family of 7 must make less than $35,610 per year.


• A family of 8 must make less than $39,630 per year.