How to Apply: School Readiness Program

A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for Florida's School Readiness Program.

What is the Florida School Readiness Program?

The School Readiness program in Florida is designed to help eligible families afford quality child care and early education services. Administered by the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) and local Early Learning Coalitions, the program assists low-income families with child care costs, allowing parents to work or pursue education/training while ensuring their children receive early education to prepare them for school. The program is available to families with children from birth to age 5, prior to kindergarten entry.

How do I apply for the Florida School Readiness Program?

You can apply for the School Readiness program through the following methods:

Online Application: Use the online application portal available through your local Early Learning Coalition: School Readiness Application Portal

In-Person Application: Visit your local Early Learning Coalition to complete a paper application.

Request by Mail: Contact your local Early Learning Coalition to request an application by mail.

Once your application is complete, submit it with all required documentation. If you are approved, you will receive a notice confirming your eligibility and a Certificate of Eligibility for child care services.

How long does it take to receive funds from the Florida School Readiness Program?

The processing time for School Readiness applications varies. After submitting your application and all required documents, your local Early Learning Coalition will review your information. If approved, you will receive a notice confirming your eligibility along with a Certificate of Eligibility. This certificate will allow you to choose a provider and receive funding for child care services.

Expect a processing time of approximately 2-4 weeks, depending on the volume of applications and the completeness of your submission.

What do the application steps look like?

Complete the Application: Fill out the online or paper application form available from your local Early Learning Coalition.

Gather Required Documentation: Collect the necessary documents, including proof of income, employment, and residency.

Submit the Application and Documents: Submit your completed application and all supporting documents.

Choose a Child Care Provider: Select an eligible child care provider that meets program requirements.

Await Approval: Your local Early Learning Coalition will review your application and documentation.

Receive Eligibility Notice and Certificate: If approved, you will receive a notice of eligibility along with a Certificate of Eligibility, which can be used with your child care provider.

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

Applicants will need to provide the following documentation:

Proof of Income:

Recent paycheck stubs (usually the last 2-4 weeks).

W-2 or tax return for the most recent year.

Proof of self-employment income (e.g., recent tax returns, business records).

Unemployment benefit statement (if applicable).

Child support or alimony documentation (if applicable).

Proof of Employment or Education/Training:

Pay stub from your employer.

Employer verification letter (stating job title, hours worked, and income).

Enrollment verification from an accredited educational institution or training program.

Class schedules or registration records (for students).

Child's Information:

Birth certificate.

Immunization records.

Proof of residency in Florida (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement).

Other Documents (if applicable):

Child support or court order (if applicable).

Foster child placement documents (if applicable).

Make sure all documents are clear, legible, and up-to-date to avoid delays in processing your application.

Common FAQs

Who can be a School Readiness child care provider?

Providers must be licensed or registered with the Florida Department of Children and Families or meet certain requirements set by the local Early Learning Coalition.

What is the family contribution?

Families are required to pay a portion of the child care costs, based on their income and family size. The family contribution is determined when eligibility is assessed.

Can I apply if I am attending school or job training?

Yes, families attending approved education or job training programs are eligible to apply for School Readiness assistance.

What if my income changes after I apply?

You must report any changes in income or household circumstances to your local Early Learning Coalition, as this may affect your eligibility or benefit amount.

How can I check the status of my application?

You can check the status of your application by logging into the online portal or contacting your local Early Learning Coalition.

Who do I contact about my application status?

Florida Department of Education – School Readiness Program

Phone: 1-866-357-3239 (Toll-free)

Website: Florida School Readiness Program

Local Early Learning Coalitions: Visit the Local Early Learning Coalition Directory for contact details.

Last updated June 13, 2025