It’s No April Fools’ Joke: Mixed-Status Families Are Now Eligible For The Child-Care Subsidy

All children with a legal approval to reside in the United States (through U.S. citizenship or otherwise) are now eligible to receive a childcare subsidy, regardless of the immigration status of their parents or other members of their household. Parents/guardians earning less than 85% of the state median income who are working at least 15 hours per week earning at least minimum wage or who need child care for approved school or training activities can apply. Income limits are based on family size as shown in the chart below:

The child-care subsidies can be used to pay for childcare at licensed center and family-based providers as well as any license-exempt provider who is approved by the Department of Workforce Services. The amount of potential payments depends upon the age of the child, the type of provider, and the amount of child care needed each week. These payments are paid directly to the providers.

Parents’ immigration status is not considered. Parents do not need to provide a social security number (there is space to enter it on the application, but it can be left blank) or any proof of work authorization. Parents and guardians can apply online, by phone (1-866-435-7414), or in-person at 1910 Prospector Avenue, Suite 100, Park City, Utah 84060.

Summaries of the program are available in English and Spanish.