• Am I eligible for child care assistance or other assistance programs?
• Child Care Assistance Brochure [PDF 632k]
• Child Care Assistance Application [in English] [PDF 75k]
• Child Care Assistance Application [en Español] [PDF 76k]
• Child Care Applicant Checklist
• Child Care Assistance Field Office Locations [PDF 26k]

The Child Care Assistance Program subsidizes the cost of child care for low-income families (at or below 200% of the federal poverty level)** that are working and/or in school and have a need for child care. The subsidy amount varies depending upon the age of the child, the type of child care, the location of the program, and the rating of the child care program (as determined by the Look for the STARS Quality Rating System). Regional offices are located throughout the state and are staffed by Eligibility Interviewers who work with families to determine the amount of subsidy they qualify for.

** Due to state budget shortfalls, the Child Care Assistance program has implemented a waiting list for all clients with an income between 100% and 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The waiting list will remain in effect until further notice. If a client meets all eligibility requirements, but their income falls between 100% and 200% of the FPL, the client will be placed on a waiting list.

Frequently Asked Questions about Child Care Assistance

What is child care assistance?
The Child Care Services Bureau can help you pay the cost of child care.

Who may apply for child care assistance?
Any parent, grandparent, or legal guardian who is working, going to school or in a job training program who needs help with child care expenses.

How is eligibility determined?
Eligibility is determined by gross monthly income and family size.

What ages qualify for child care assistance?
Any child between the ages of 6 weeks and 13 years old, unless have medical documentation.

Who may provide care for my child?
You choose the care that is best for you and your child such as a family child care home, a licensed home, a licensed center, a before-and-after school program or relative care.

How does my child care provider get paid?
The Child Care Services Bureau pays your provider directly each month based on the Department rate. You also may be required to pay a co-payment.

To receive benefits, you will need to bring the following information with you when you apply for services:

• A completed, signed application form
• Photo ID (ex. driver's license, passport)
• Income verification for applicant and spouse or boyfriend/girlfriend (ex. one month of most current pay stub; if newly employed, a letter from employer) OR proof of participation in the TANF or SNAP work activity program
• School schedule (if applicable)
• Birth certificates for all applicable children
• Proof of unearned income for applicant and spouse or boyfriend/girlfriend (ex. child support, Social Security benefits, etc.)
• Proof of residency (ex. lease agreement, utility bill, etc.)
• Name, address and phone number of the child care provider selected (for registered homes, you will need copies of self-certification, Social Security Card and driver's license)

For more information on Child Care Assistance, contact your regional Child Care Assistance office, or call Cinthia Lopez at (505) 827-7499 or 1-800-832-1321 or by email at cinthia.lopez@state.nm.us.