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How to Apply: North Carolina Subsidized Child Care
North Carolina · 6 StepsParents who work, go to school, or need care for a child from 6 weeks to age 17
Take it one step at a time. We're here to help.
Quick facts
Step 1 of 6: See if you qualify
Check before you apply
- Check online (opens in a new tab)Tap to open
- You work, study, or look for work
- Kids 6 weeks to age 17
Good to know: Families in crisis or working with child welfare can also qualify.Step 2 of 6: Contact your county office
They handle applications
- Find your county DSS (opens in a new tab)Tap to open
- Call to set an appointment
- Or call 1-800-859-0829
Step 3 of 6: Get your papers ready
- Your ID and proof of address
- Pay stubs or tax returns
- Child's birth record and SSN
- Proof of work or school
Good to know: Families without stable housing get 30 extra days to bring papers.Step 4 of 6: Apply
- In person
- Online
- By phone
Step 5 of 6: Wait for your answer
- Answer within 30 days
- You get a voucher
Good to know: It can be done the same day if your papers are ready.Step 6 of 6: Pick your child care
- Choose a licensed 3-5 star provider
- You pay 10% of your monthly income
Good to know: The fee is waived for families in foster care, without stable housing, or working with child welfare.Important: If you move to another county, your help may continue - ask your office.
A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the North Carolina Subsidized Child Care Program.
What is the North Carolina Subsidized Child Care Program?
North Carolina’s Child Care Subsidy Program, funded through federal and state CCDF funds, helps low-income families access licensed child care. It supports parents who are working, attending school/training, job-seeking, involved in child protective/welfare services, or caring for children with developmental needs. The program is administered locally through county departments of social services, using a voucher model that promotes parent choice among participating providers.
How do I apply for NC Subsidy?
Step 1: Check if You QualifyConfirm that you meet both the situational (work, school, CPS involvement, crisis, developmental need) and financial criteria via the “Do I Qualify?” page. Most families share 10% of care costs unless exempt (e.g. CPS).
Step 2: Contact Your Local County DSS or LPAFind your County Child Care Contact via the NC Child Care Contacts Lookup and schedule an appointment or walk-in.
Step 3: Complete the ApplicationApply in person, online, or by phone. You’ll provide family, income, and need information.
Step 4: Submit DocumentsBring ID, proof of address, income verification, and documentation for your child’s need (e.g. school, medical, CPS).
How long does it take to receive assistance?
Counties have 30 calendar days from application date to determine eligibility—often it’s completed same day if documentation is ready .
Once approved, you receive a childcare voucher that authorizes targeted hours and fee-share.
What do the application steps look like?
Check eligibility via “Do I Qualify?”.
Contact your county DSS or LPA for an appointment.
Complete and sign the application.
Submit required documents.
DSS determines eligibility and issues a voucher.
Select a licensed provider (must be star-rated 3+) and set up billing.
The program begins, and you share a small portion of the cost (typically 10%).
What documentation is required?
Family & Residency
ID (driver’s license/state ID)
Proof of address (lease, utility bill, etc.)
Income & Assets
Recent pay stubs, tax returns
Asset declaration (must be below $1,000,000 unless CPS-involved)
Need for Care
Employment, school/training proof
Child welfare or protective services documentation (if applicable)
Developmental or medical assessments (for developmental need)
Child Information
Age/birth record; Social Security Number
Common FAQs
1. Who pays how much?Families typically pay 10% of gross monthly income; fee is waived for CPS, CWS, foster care, and homeless families.
2. What ages are eligible?Children from 6 weeks up to age 17—care for older kids depends on specific needs like special learning .
3. Can I keep the subsidy if I move counties?Yes — your original county may continue funding care until local resources kick in.
4. What if I’m homeless?You get a 30-day grace period to submit documentation, immediately after starting services.
5. Are all providers eligible?Providers must be licensed with a 3–5 star rating or religious-exempt with compliance notice to accept subsidies.
Who do I contact about my application status?
County Department of Social Services (DSS)/Local Purchasing Agency (LPA) — check application and voucher processing.
NC DHHS Division of Child Development & Early Education (DCDEE):
Call 1-800-859-0829 or 919-814-6300
DCDEE Parent “Fact Sheets” – updated county-specific details available; email [email protected] for help
Last updated June 17, 2025