How to Apply: Child Care Subsidy Program

A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the Missouri Child Care Subsidy Program.

What is the Missouri Child Care Subsidy Program?

The Missouri Child Care Subsidy Program helps families pay for child care so parents can work, look for work, go to school, or join job training programs. This program gives families money to help with child care costs so they can focus on building a better life for their children. The program works with licensed child care centers, family child care providers, and other approved caregivers throughout Missouri.

How do I apply for the Missouri Child Care Subsidy Program?

There are 3 ways to apply for child care subsidy:

1. Apply Online: Use the Child Care Subsidy Parent Portal to complete your application online
2. By Phone: Call the Missouri Childhood Resource and Referral Call Center at 573-415-8605 to speak to a Community Support Specialist who can help you complete your application
3. In Person: Visit your local Family Support Division (FSD) office to get help with your application in person

How long does it take to receive funds from the Missouri Child Care Subsidy Program?

The application review process can take up to 4 weeks. However, due to recent system updates, there may be longer wait times. The state is working hard to process applications faster and hopes to get back to processing applications within 1-2 weeks. Once approved, you will receive an Authorization Letter that tells your child care provider they can start receiving payments.

What do the application steps look like?

Step 1: Choose how you want to apply (online, phone, or in person)

Step 2: Fill out the complete application with information about your family, income, and child care needs

Step 3: Gather and submit all required documents (see documentation section below)

Step 4: Wait for your application to be reviewed (up to 4 weeks currently)

Step 5: If approved, you will receive an Authorization Letter for each child

Step 6: Choose an approved child care provider who accepts the subsidy program

Step 7: Your provider will receive payments directly from the state, and you pay your family co-payment to them

Step 8: Report any changes to your family situation within 10 days

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

Identity Documents (required for all family members)

• Birth certificates
• Social Security cards
• Driver's license or state ID

Income Verification (provide what applies to your family)

• Recent pay stubs (last 30 days recommended)
• Tax returns (most recent year)
• Self-employment records
• Unemployment benefits statements
• Social Security benefits
• Child support documentation
• Employer statements

Work/School/Training Status (provide what applies to your situation)

• Work schedule from employer (only if working)
• School enrollment verification and schedule (only if attending school)
• Job training program enrollment letter (only if in job training)
• Job search documentation (only if looking for work)

Housing Verification (required for all applications)

• Utility bills
• Lease agreements
• Mortgage statements

Special Circumstances (only if applicable)

• Special needs documentation for children with disabilities
• Protective services documentation (if receiving services)
• Immigration documents (if applicable)

Common FAQ's

1. How much will I have to pay? You will pay a sliding fee based on your family income and the federal poverty level. The exact amount depends on your income and family size. The state pays the rest directly to your child care provider.

2. Who can provide my child care? You can choose from licensed child care centers, licensed family child care providers, or other approved caregivers. Your provider must be approved to accept subsidy payments.

3. What ages of children can get help? Children from birth to age 13, or children up to age 19 if they have special needs or are receiving protective services.

4. What if my income or situation changes? You must report changes within 10 days. Important changes include address, phone number, income increases over 85% of State Median Income, or if you no longer need child care for more than 90 days.

5. Can I get help if I'm in school? Yes! The program helps families where parents are working, looking for work, attending school, or participating in job training programs.

Who do I contact about my application status?

Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary EducationOffice of Childhood - Child Care Subsidy

Application Help Phone:573-415-8605 (Missouri Childhood Resource and Referral Call Center)

Translation Services:573-751-4212 (ask for a translator)

TTY/TDD:1-800-735-2966 or 1-800-735-2466 (American Sign Language)

Online Portal:Child Care Subsidy Parent Portal

Address for Paper Forms:Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary EducationOffice of Childhood-Child Care SubsidyPO Box 480Jefferson City, MO 65102

Find Child Care Providers: Visit Child Care Aware of Missouri for help finding quality child care providers in your area

Last updated July 14, 2025