Wisconsin Shares

Wisconsin’s Child Care Subsidy Program, known as Wisconsin Shares, helps low-income working families with children under the age of 13 pay for child care.

The program only pays for a portion of the child care costs, and the remaining cost is co-paid by the parent. The co-payment can be as low as 2%  of the family’s gross income.

The chosen child care provider must be licensed or certified and participate in YoungStar , Wisconsin’s child care quality rating system, with a rating of at least 2 stars.

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

Beginning July 1, 2024, the family’s gross monthly income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level at the time of initial application. Families may remain enrolled in the program until their income exceeds 85% of the State Median Income (SMI).

For example, for a family of three, with one parent and two children, earning less than $4,553 would be deemed income eligible.

How much is the copay for Wisconsin Shares?

Wisconsin figures your monthly copay by multiplying the hours of care you are authorized to use by a copay per hour, which depends on your income compared to the federal poverty level and the number of children with Wisconsin Shares.¹ Each child counts up to 152 hours a month per provider. With one child in care, the copay per hour is:

The copay per hour is lower when more children are in care, and above 200% of the poverty level the copay increases by $1 for every $5 of income over that level.

How do I apply for child care assistance in Wisconsin?

You may apply online through ACCESS  or apply in person at any W-2 agency  near you. Either way, you’ll have to go through a phone interview to determine your eligibility.

Wisconsin Department of Children and Families
Milwaukee Enrollment Services (MilES)
(888) 947-6583

If you reside outside Milwaukee County, call 211 to be directed to the appropriate local child care assistance agency.