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DC Child Care Subsidy Program

A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the DC Child Care Subsidy Program.

What is the DC Child Care Subsidy Program?

The DC Child Care Subsidy Program, also called child care vouchers, helps DC families with low and moderate incomes pay for child care costs. The program pays all or part of your child care costs directly to your child care provider. Based on your income, you may need to pay a small amount to your provider each month. This program helps you afford quality child care while you work, go to school, or take care of other important needs.

How do I apply for the DC Child Care Subsidy Program?

You have three ways to apply for help with child care costs:

Option 1: Apply Online (Easiest Way)

Option 2: Apply in Person at DHS Service Centers

  • Print the application form ahead of time (you can get free printing at DC Public Libraries with a library card)
  • Visit one of these locations: Congress Heights Service Center
    • Address: 4049 South Capitol St. SW
    • Walk-ins welcome: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday from 7:30 AM - 3:00 PM (first come, first served)
    • Appointments: Thursday and Friday from 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM
    • Phone: (202) 727-0284
    Taylor Street Service Center
    • Address: 1207 Taylor St. NW
    • Appointments only: Monday - Friday from 7:30 AM - 4:45 PM
    • Phone: (202) 576-8776
    Virginia Williams Family Resource Center (for families experiencing homelessness)
    • Address: 64 New York Ave. NE
    • Appointments: Monday or Wednesday from 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
    • Phone: (202) 727-7659

Option 3: Apply at a Level II Child Care Provider

How long does it take to receive funds from the DC Child Care Subsidy Program?

If your application is complete with all required documents, an eligibility worker will review it and make a decision. If documents are missing, you have 30 days to provide them. Once approved, payments go directly to your child care provider, not to you. The exact timeline depends on how complete your application is when you submit it.

What do the application steps look like?

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

Step 2: Choose How to Apply

Step 3: Complete Your Application

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Step 5: Wait for Review

Step 6: Get Your Decision

  • If approved, you'll get an admission form for your chosen provider
  • If denied, you'll get a letter explaining why and how to appeal

Step 7: Start Child Care Services

  • Take your admission form to your chosen provider on the first day of care
  • Your provider signs the form and sends it back to DHS within 24 hours

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

Child's Information

  • Birth certificate or other proof of age
  • Social Security card or number
  • Proof child is a US citizen or legal resident
  • Immunization records

Family Income

  • Pay stubs from the last 4 weeks
  • Tax returns from last year
  • W-2 forms
  • Unemployment benefits letters
  • Social Security benefits statements
  • Bank statements
  • Any other income documents

Work/School/Training Proof

  • Employment verification letter from your boss
  • School enrollment papers
  • Training program documents
  • Job search documentation (if looking for work)
  • TANF participation papers (if applicable)

Housing and Family Size

  • Lease or mortgage papers
  • Utility bills with your name and address
  • Documents showing who lives in your home

Special Situations

  • Foster care papers (if applicable)
  • Adoption documents (if applicable)
  • Child Protective Services documents (if applicable)
  • Disability documentation (if applicable)
  • Domestic violence protection papers (if applicable)
  • Homelessness documentation (if applicable)
  • Addiction recovery program papers (if applicable)

Both Parents Information

  • If both parents live in the home, both must provide income and work information
  • If the other parent doesn't live with you, list them on the application if you know where they are

Common FAQ's

1. How much money can my family make and still get help? Families with incomes up to 300% of the federal poverty level may be eligible if they meet other requirements. Once approved, you can keep your benefits even if your income goes up to 85% of DC Median Income ($134,160 for a family of four).

2. Can I use an in-home babysitter? Yes! As of October 1, 2024, you can choose in-home care right away. Your chosen provider must pass a background check and get health and safety training.

3. Can I put my children in different child care centers? Yes, but you must apply online or at DHS if you want your children at different providers. You cannot apply at a Level II provider if you want to use multiple facilities.

4. Do I have to pay anything if I get approved? You may need to pay a co-payment each month based on your family's income. Co-payments only apply to your two oldest children getting care. Your co-payment amount cannot increase during your 12-month eligibility period.

5. Can I get help with evening, night, or weekend child care? Yes! Some providers offer non-traditional hours (care outside 7 AM - 6 PM Monday-Friday). You can search for these providers on MyChildCare.dc.gov or use in-home care.

Who do I contact about my application status?

For Application Help and Questions:

For Finding Child Care Providers:

DHS Service Centers (for application status):

For Program Questions:

  • Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE)
  • Address: 1050 First Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002
  • Phone: (202) 727-6436
  • TTY: 711
  • Email: osse@dc.gov
  • Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

For Complaints:

For Appeals:

  • If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision
  • Follow the appeal process explained in the denial letter you receive