Child Care Assistance in Vermont

Vermont’s Child Development Division offers help to families that struggle to make child care payments through the Child Care Financial Assistance Program. The services are funded by a combination of both federal and state funds. In order to qualify for help, children must be at least six weeks old and younger than 13. Children with special needs may be eligible until they turn 19. Accepted families are welcome to select any provider willing to accept payment from the Child Development Division, but the Child Care Financial Assistance Program offers higher rates to providers who participate in STARS, the quality care and improvement system in Vermont. Families must have a reason to need child care such as the need to work or attend an educational program. They must also meet specific income-based guidelines. Read the Child Care Financial Assistance Program booklet to see if you’re eligible or just to learn more about the program.

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.