Vermont Child Care Assistance — Child Care Financial AssistanceVermont

Check if you qualify in Vermont

Enter your household size and monthly income to see if you qualify for child care subsidy in Vermont. Results are instant, nothing is stored.

For a household of 3, the limit to apply in Vermont is $13,091 a month (575% of the poverty level) and the limit to stay enrolled is $13,091 (575% of the poverty level).

This is an estimate based on gross monthly income and household size. It does not include copayments, waitlists, or other rules, and your state agency makes the final decision.

Vermont Child Care Financial Assistance

Child Care Financial Assistance, also known as child care subsidy, is a program that helps eligible families pay for care for children from birth through age 12.

Eligibility is based upon the family’s gross monthly income, family size, and ability to meet all technical eligibility requirements.

The state pays a portion of the cost of child care, while the parent is responsible to pay a co-payment to the provider of their choice each month.

What is the income limit for child care assistance in Vermont?

The current income eligibility for families is capped at 575% of the federal poverty level or about $13,091 per month for a family of three, making nearly all families eligible for at least partial support.

Child care subsidy income limits by household size, Vermonters
Household Size	575% FPLInitial Eligibility	575% FPLRedetermination
2	$10,369	$10,369
3	$13,091	$13,091
4	$15,813	$15,813
5	$18,534	$18,534
6	$21,256	$21,256
7	$23,978	$23,978
8	$26,699	$26,699

The income limits are presented as dollar amounts derived from a percentage of either the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) or the State Median Income (SMI) for 2026.

Families with an income under 175% of the federal poverty level, or about $3,984 per month for a family of three, will have no copayment.

How do I apply for child care assistance in Vermont?

If you need help paying for child care, you may ubmit an online application through the Child Development Division Information System (CDDIS) Parent Portal .

If you are receiving Reach Up, ask your case manager whether they can authorize Child Care Financial Assistance for you.

Vermont Department for Children and Families
Benefits Service Center
(800) 479-6151

STep Ahead Recognition System (STARS)

Use the STARS to find a quality child care provider near you. The STep Ahead Recognition System (STARS) is Vermont’s quality recognition system for child care, preschool, and afterschool programs.

You may pay less for child care if you receive child care financial assistance AND use a program that has stars as well as a tax credit on your Vermont state income tax if you choose a program that has 3, 4, or 5 stars.

For general questions about STARS, please contact
(800) 649-2642