Childcare Subsidies in Vermont
Financial assistance programs to help Vermont families pay for daycare and childcare.
Vermont Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP)
Act 76 expanding universal pre-K. Sliding scale co-pays.
Am I Eligible?
How to Apply for Child Care Assistance in Vermont
Application Process
Apply for Vermont's Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP) through the Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF) online at dcf.vermont.gov/benefits/ccfap. Vermont's online system is user-friendly and allows document uploads. Documents needed include proof of income, Vermont residency, Social Security numbers, and verification of work or education activity. Vermont is notable for its broad eligibility: both working families and those in education or training qualify, and the state has been expanding access. Processing takes 2-4 weeks.
Co-Pay Structure
Vermont's CCFAP uses a sliding scale co-pay that is assessed as a percentage of childcare cost based on family income. Families at the lowest income levels pay 0% of cost. The scale increases gradually, reaching approximately 80% of cost near the income ceiling ($63,948 for a family of four). Vermont's approach means that even near the top of the income range, the state is still paying a portion. Co-pays are per family. Vermont recently reformed its fee schedule under Act 76 to reduce family costs.
Waitlist Reality
Vermont does not maintain a waitlist for CCFAP. All eligible families are served. Vermont's challenge is one of the most severe child care shortages in the nation. The state lost over 30% of its licensed child care capacity during COVID and has been struggling to rebuild. Rural Vermont communities (much of the state) face acute deserts. Burlington and Montpelier have more providers but still have significant gaps, especially for infants and toddlers.
Additional Programs in Vermont
Vermont's Act 76 is expanding universal pre-K for all 3-5 year olds, providing 10 hours/week of publicly funded preschool through both public schools and private providers. This is moving toward universal access and can be combined with CCFAP for additional hours. Head Start is available in many Vermont communities. Vermont's STep Ahead Recognition System (STARS) rates providers on a 1-5 star scale. The state offers a state Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit. The Vermont Birth to Five Alliance coordinates early childhood advocacy.
Tips for Vermont Parents
Take advantage of Act 76's universal pre-K hours (10 hours/week free for 3-5 year olds) and use CCFAP for the additional hours you need. Apply online at dcf.vermont.gov for the fastest processing. Given Vermont's severe provider shortage, start your provider search months before you need care. Contact the Vermont Child Care Resource and Referral (Child Care Resource) for help finding openings. Family child care homes are critical in rural Vermont; they may be your best option outside Burlington and Montpelier. The 211 helpline can also connect you to childcare resources.
Federal Programs Available Everywhere
Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit
Claim 20-35% of childcare expenses on your federal taxes.
Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA)
Employer-sponsored pre-tax account for childcare expenses. Reduces taxable income.
Head Start / Early Head Start
Free federally funded program for children from low-income families. Head Start: ages 3-5. Early Head Start: birth to 3.
Eligibility: At or below federal poverty level (family of 4: ~$31,200 in 2024).
See Daycare Costs in Vermont
Compare childcare prices across 14 counties in Vermont. Center-based infant care averages N/A/year.
View Vermont daycare costs →