North Carolina Subsidized Child Care

What is the North Carolina Subsidized Child Care Program?

North Carolina’s Child Care Subsidy Program, funded through federal and state CCDF funds, helps low-income families access licensed child care. It supports parents who are working, attending school/training, job-seeking, involved in child protective/welfare services, or caring for children with developmental needs. The program is administered locally through county departments of social services, using a voucher model that promotes parent choice among participating providers.

How do I apply for NC Subsidy?

• Step 1: Check if You Qualify
  Confirm that you meet both the situational (work, school, CPS involvement, crisis, developmental need) and financial criteria via the “Do I Qualify?” page. Most families share 10% of care costs unless exempt (e.g. CPS).

• Step 2: Contact Your Local County DSS or LPA
  Find your County Child Care Contact via the NC Child Care Contacts Lookup and schedule an appointment or walk-in.

• Step 3: Complete the Application
  Apply in person, online, or by phone. You’ll provide family, income, and need information.

• Step 4: Submit Documents
  Bring ID, proof of address, income verification, and documentation for your child’s need (e.g. school, medical, CPS).

How long does it take to receive assistance?

• Counties have 30 calendar days from application date to determine eligibility—often it’s completed same day if documentation is ready .

• Once approved, you receive a childcare voucher that authorizes targeted hours and fee-share.

What do the application steps look like?

1. Check eligibility via “Do I Qualify?”.

2. Contact your county DSS or LPA for an appointment.

3. Complete and sign the application.

4. Submit required documents.

5. DSS determines eligibility and issues a voucher.

6. Select a licensed provider (must be star-rated 3+) and set up billing.

7. The program begins, and you share a small portion of the cost (typically 10%).

What documentation is required?

Family & Residency

• ID (driver’s license/state ID)

• Proof of address (lease, utility bill, etc.)

Income & Assets

• Recent pay stubs, tax returns

• Asset declaration (must be below $1,000,000 unless CPS-involved)

Need for Care

• Employment, school/training proof

• Child welfare or protective services documentation (if applicable)

• Developmental or medical assessments (for developmental need)

Child Information

• Age/birth record; Social Security Number

Common FAQs

1. Who pays how much?
Families typically pay 10% of gross monthly income; fee is waived for CPS, CWS, foster care, and homeless families.

2. What ages are eligible?
Children from 6 weeks up to age 17—care for older kids depends on specific needs like special learning .

3. Can I keep the subsidy if I move counties?
Yes — your original county may continue funding care until local resources kick in.

4. What if I’m homeless?
You get a 30-day grace period to submit documentation, immediately after starting services.

5. Are all providers eligible?
Providers must be licensed with a 3–5 star rating or religious-exempt with compliance notice to accept subsidies.

Who do I contact about my application status?

• County Department of Social Services (DSS)/Local Purchasing Agency (LPA) — check application and voucher processing.

• NC DHHS Division of Child Development & Early Education (DCDEE):

  • Call 1-800-859-0829 or 919-814-6300

• DCDEE Parent “Fact Sheets” – updated county-specific details available; email [email protected] for help