How do I get childcare assistance in Wyoming?

Apply through Wyoming Child Care Assistance. Families of 4 earning under $57,540/year may qualify.

What is the income limit for childcare subsidies in Wyoming?

For a family of 4, the income limit is approximately $57,540/year (85% of state median income).

Childcare Subsidies in Wyoming

Financial assistance programs to help Wyoming families pay for daycare and childcare.

$57,540

Income limit (family of 4)

85%

of state median income

$8,503

Avg infant care cost/yr

Wyoming Child Care Assistance

DFS administers. Limited number of licensed providers in rural areas.

Am I Eligible?

1. Family income is below $57,540/year for a family of 4 (85% of state median income)

2. Parent/guardian is working, in school, or in an approved training program

3. Child is under 13 years old (or under 19 with special needs)

4. Child is a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen

5. Family resides in Wyoming

Apply for Wyoming Child Care Assistance

How to Apply for Child Care Assistance in Wyoming

Application Process

Apply for Wyoming's Child Care Assistance through the Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS) online at dfrweb.wyo.gov or at your local DFS office. Wyoming's smaller population means the application process is relatively personal and efficient. Documents needed include proof of income, Wyoming residency, Social Security numbers, child birth certificates, and verification of work or education activity. Processing takes 2-3 weeks, and DFS caseworkers are generally accessible by phone.

Co-Pay Structure

Wyoming's co-pay is based on family income and size. The income ceiling is $57,540 for a family of four. Families at the lowest income levels pay $0. Co-pays increase on a sliding scale; a family at 150% FPL might pay $25-$50/week. Near the ceiling, co-pays can reach $60-$80/week per child. Wyoming assesses co-pays per child with a sibling reduction. The co-pay schedule is straightforward and published by DFS.

Waitlist Reality

Wyoming does not maintain a waitlist for child care assistance. All eligible families are served promptly. The state's very small population and adequate funding ensure universal service. The critical challenge is provider availability: Wyoming is the least populated state, and many communities (particularly in the eastern plains and Big Horn Basin) have very few or no licensed child care providers. Cheyenne, Casper, and Laramie have the most options, but even these are limited compared to larger states.

Additional Programs in Wyoming

Wyoming does not have a state-funded pre-K program, making it one of a few states without one. Head Start and Early Head Start are the primary free preschool options and operate in many Wyoming communities. Wyoming's quality rating system is in development. The Wyoming Kids First Trust Fund provides grants to child care providers for quality improvement. Tribal Head Start programs serve the Wind River Reservation (Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho). Some energy industry employers in the Powder River Basin and Wind River area offer childcare assistance.

Tips for Wyoming Parents

Start searching for providers immediately when you decide you need care, as Wyoming's provider shortage is severe in most areas. Contact Wyoming 211 or your local DFS office for provider referrals. Family child care homes are essential in rural Wyoming and may be the only option in smaller communities. If you are on the Wind River Reservation, contact the tribal Head Start program in addition to applying for state assistance. Apply at dfrweb.wyo.gov for the most efficient processing. If no licensed provider is available in your area, ask DFS about the license-exempt care option.

Federal Programs Available Everywhere

Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit

Claim 20-35% of childcare expenses on your federal taxes.

Max expenses (1 child) $3,000

Max expenses (2+ children) $6,000

Credit percentage 20-35%

Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA)

Employer-sponsored pre-tax account for childcare expenses. Reduces taxable income.

Max annual contribution $5,000

Tax benefit Pre-tax (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 Wyoming

Compare childcare prices across 23 counties in Wyoming. Center-based infant care averages $8,503/year.

View Wyoming daycare costs →