Child Care Assistance in New Mexico

The state of New Mexico provides Income-Eligible Child Care for families in need. The assistance offered lowers the cost of child care for those working or in an educational or work training program. Children who qualify for the program need to be younger than 13 years old, unless they have special needs, in which case the program may be extended for older children. The program is funded by the state of New Mexico and run by the Children, Youth and Families Department. Those who qualify may select the pre-approved center or care provider of their choice. If there isn’t enough funding available, you may be placed on a waiting list, depending on the area you live in. For more information, contact the CYFD Child Care Services Bureau Office in your area.

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.