How to Apply: Child Care Subsidy Program

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

What is the Oklahoma Child Care Subsidy Program?

The Oklahoma Child Care Subsidy Program helps parents who meet income requirements pay for licensed child care while they are at work, in training, or getting an education. This program is available through the federal Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG). The subsidy is paid directly to your child care provider on your family's behalf. You may have a co-payment for the child care services based on your income, family size, and number of family members needing child care.

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

There are 3 ways to apply for child care subsidy:

1. Apply Online at OKDHSLive.org: Create a user name and password if you're a first-time user, or use your existing login if you previously received DHS benefits
2. Call for Help:405-522-5050 to get assistance with your application
3. Visit in Person: Go to your local Oklahoma Human Services Center and be prepared to be interviewed the same day

After submitting your application, you MUST complete an interview with a DHS worker to answer additional eligibility questions.

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

The earliest date child care can be approved is the date you complete your interview and provide all needed verification, including choosing your child care provider. If you are eligible, your worker must approve your application within 2 working days of completing the interview and receiving all necessary documents. You will receive a Notice of Action letter telling you if your benefits were approved or denied. The state pays your provider directly, and you don't receive cash.

What do the application steps look like?

Step 1: Apply online at OKDHSLive.org, call for help, or visit your local Oklahoma Human Services Center

Step 2: Complete a required interview with a DHS worker (same day if applying in person, or by phone if applying online)

Step 3: Provide all required verification documents during or after your interview

Step 4: Choose an approved child care provider and provide their name to your worker

Step 5: Wait for your worker to review your application and make a decision (within 2 working days of completing interview and providing documents)

Step 6: Receive your Notice of Action letter with approval or denial information

Step 7: If approved, receive your Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card to track attendance

Step 8: Start using child care and pay your family share co-payment directly to your provider

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

Child Information (required for all applications):

• Birth certificates for all children
• Social Security cards for all children
• Current immunization records (shot records)

Parent/Guardian Information (required for all applications):

• Driver's license or picture ID
• Social Security cards for all adults
• Proof of residence (utility bill or lease agreement)

Income Verification (must show at least ONE document for each type):

• Current pay stubs (one full month)
• Employer statement for new jobs or income changes
• Self-employment records and most recent tax return with all schedules
• Unemployment benefits statements
• Child support documentation
• Any other income sources

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

• Work schedule from employer (only if working)
• School enrollment and class schedule with financial aid information (only if attending school)
• Job training program documentation (only if in training)
• Job search documentation (only if looking for work)

Child Care Provider Information (required for approval):

• Name and contact information of chosen licensed child care provider
• Provider must be licensed and contracted with DHS to accept subsidy payments

Special Circumstances (only if applicable):

• Court-ordered child support or spousal support documentation
• Foster care or adoption records
• Protective services documentation
• Disability documentation for children with special needs

Common FAQ's

1. How much will I have to pay? You pay a family share co-payment directly to your child care provider each month. The amount is based on your income, family size, and number of children needing care. Check the Child Care Eligibility/Co-payment Chart for specific amounts.

2. What ages of children can get help? Child care may be approved for children from birth to age 13. Children with disabilities may qualify up to age 19.

3. Can I choose any child care provider? You can choose from licensed child care centers that have 2, 3, 4, or 5-star ratings, licensed family child care homes, or in-home providers (relatives who meet relationship requirements). Providers must be licensed and contracted with DHS to accept subsidy payments.

4. What if my employer won't give me proof of income? Let your worker know right away. They will try to contact your employer by phone. If unsuccessful, they can approve 30 days of child care based on your statement of work hours, but you must provide income proof before more care is approved.

5. How do I use my child care benefits? You'll receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card to record when your child attends child care using a point-of-service machine or mobile app. The provider tracks attendance and receives payment from DHS based on your child's attendance.

Who do I contact about my application status?

For General Program Information:

Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS)Child Care Subsidy Program

Phone:405-521-3431

Email:childcaresubsidy@okdhs.org

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 25352 Oklahoma City, OK 73125

For Applications and Eligibility:

OKDHS Benefits Application

Phone:405-522-5050

Website:OKDHSLive.org

For Provider Contracts and EBT Issues:

Child Care Contracts

Email:childcarecontracts@okdhs.org

Phone:405-521-3431

For Child Care Licensing Questions:

Child Care Services

Phone:405-521-3561 or 405-522-5050 (option 1)

For Finding Child Care Providers:

Child Care Locator:ChildCareFind.okdhs.org

Oklahoma Child Care Resource and Referral:

Phone:1-888-962-2772Spanish:405-525-8783

For Reporting Abuse or Neglect:

Oklahoma Child Abuse Hotline:800-522-3511

To Find Your Local Office:

Visit: Your local Oklahoma Human Services Center for in-person help

Additional Resources:

Child Care Restricted Registry (Joshua's List):CCRRPUBLICJL.okdhs.org

Head Start Locator:acf.hhs.gov/programs/ohs

Oklahoma Partnership for School Readiness:okschoolreadiness.org

Last updated July 14, 2025