How to Apply: Child Care Assistance Program

A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the Child Care Assistance Program in Wyoming.

What is the Wyoming Child Care Assistance Program?

The Wyoming Child Care Subsidy Program helps low-income families pay for the cost of care when the parent(s) are searching for employment, working, in school or training. The Department of Family Services' Child Care Subsidy Program uses a combination of state and federal funds to assist eligible families in paying for the cost of child care while the parent(s) is in an approved activity. If the family meets the eligibility criteria, the Department of Family Services pays a portion of the cost of care. Parents are free to choose a child care arrangement that best fits their needs as long as the chosen provider meets certain health and safety requirements.

How do I apply for Wyoming Child Care Assistance Program?

You can apply for Wyoming Child Care Assistance in two ways:

• In-Person Application: Take your completed Child Care Assistance Application to your local DFS office
• Email Application: Email your completed application to childcareservice@wyo.gov

Find Your Local DFS Office: Visit the Wyoming DFS Contact Local Offices page and use their interactive map to find the DFS location nearest you.

Application Form: Download the Child Care Assistance Application from the Wyoming DFS website.

Online Resources: Visit the Wyoming DFS Facility Discovery page to find child care facilities around the state as well as other related and important information.

How long does it take to receive funds from Wyoming Child Care Assistance Program?

The timeline for receiving assistance varies, but here's what you can expect:

• Application Review: Your application will be reviewed after you submit all required documents
• Eligibility Determination: The DFS will determine if your family meets the eligibility criteria
• Provider Payment: If approved, the Department of Family Services pays a portion of the cost of care directly to your chosen child care provider
• Family Payment: Based on your family's income, you may be responsible for paying for part of the cost of care (co-payment)

The application date is defined as "the date the signed application is received and date stamped in the DFS-FO; the date compliance with the child support, work and eligibility performance requirements must begin."

What do the application steps look like?

1. Determine Your Eligibility: Make sure you meet the income guidelines (cannot exceed 85% of Wyoming Median Income based on family size) and are participating in approved activities (working, in school/training, or job searching)
2. Choose Your Child Care Provider: Select a child care arrangement that meets Wyoming licensing standards or minimum health and safety requirements. All providers must receive favorable Central Registry and criminal history pre-screen checks.
3. Complete the Application: Fill out the Child Care Assistance Application form completely and accurately
4. Gather Required Documentation: Collect all necessary documents to verify your eligibility (see documentation section below)
5. Submit Your Application: Either take your completed application to your local DFS office or email it to childcareservice@wyo.gov
6. Wait for Review: DFS will review your application and supporting documents
7. Receive Decision: You will be notified of the eligibility determination
8. Begin Services: If approved, DFS will start paying your child care provider directly, and you'll pay any required co-payment

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

You must provide documentation to verify your eligibility. Required documents typically include:

Income Verification

• Pay stubs showing current income
• Self-employment income records
• Unemployment benefits statements
• Social Security benefits statements
• Any other income sources

Identity and Eligibility Documents

• Social Security cards for all household members
• Birth certificates for children needing care
• Proof of residency in Wyoming
• Immigration documents (if applicable)

Activity Verification

• Work schedule and employment verification
• School enrollment and class schedule
• Training program enrollment documentation
• Job search documentation (if applicable)

Child Care Provider Information

• Provider's license or exemption documentation
• Provider's rate information
• Proof that provider meets health and safety requirements

Additional Documents (as needed)

• Child support documentation
• Medical documentation for children with special needs
• Court orders (if applicable)
• Any other documents requested by DFS

Common FAQ's

Q: What activities qualify me for child care assistance? A: You must be working, attending an approved educational or training program, or searching for employment. Educational programs include University of Wyoming, Wyoming community colleges, or other accredited programs leading to a degree, certification, or license.

Q: What are the income limits? A: Your family income cannot exceed 85% of the Wyoming Median Income based on your family size. Income limits are adjusted annually no later than April 1st when Federal Poverty Level information becomes available.

Q: Can I choose any child care provider? A: You can choose any child care provider that meets Wyoming licensing standards or minimum health and safety requirements. All providers must receive favorable Central Registry and criminal history background checks.

Q: How much will I have to pay? A: Your co-payment (parental obligation) is determined based on your family income and follows the calculation method published in the Wyoming Child Care and Development State Plan. The state pays a portion, and you pay the remainder.

Q: How long can I receive assistance? A: Assistance continues as long as you remain eligible and participate in approved activities. Your case will be reviewed periodically to ensure continued eligibility.

Who do I contact about my application status?

Main Contact Information:

Wyoming Department of Family Services

• Main Phone: 307-777-7564
• Toll Free: 800-457-3659
• Email: dfs-directorsoffice@wyo.gov
• Child Care Services Email: childcareservice@wyo.gov

Address: Wyoming Department of Family Services 2300 Capital Avenue, Third Floor Hathaway Building Cheyenne, WY 82002

Find Local Offices: Use the Wyoming DFS interactive map to find your nearest local office.

Resource and Referral:

• Quality Child Care Resource and Referral Program Manager: Tania Trujillo
• Email: Tania.Trujillo@wyo.gov
• Phone: 307-777-7290

Ombudsman Services: If you have concerns about your case, contact:

• DFS Ombudsman: Clint Hanes
• Email: clint.hanes1@wyo.gov
• Phone: 307-777-6597

Additional Resources:

• WY Quality Counts Program - Provides information on quality child care and scholarships for early childhood professionals
• Wyoming Child Care Referral - Online resource to find child care providers in your area

Important Notes:

• Keep all documentation current and report any changes in your situation promptly
• Visit your local DFS office if you need help completing your application or have questions about the process

Last updated July 15, 2025