When finding the perfect child care center for your little one, be it toddler, infant, or school age, the pricing can be a big factor. Choosing the perfect nurturing environment for your child is essential, and for eligible families, the Virginia Child Care Subsidy Program can make that decision easier.
Virginia offers financial child care assistance to help families stay employed, attend school, or manage life transitions. If you’re overwhelmed by the process, this guide breaks it down into simple steps.
Who qualifies? Virginia residents who:
- Those actively employed or Job searching.
- Participating in an education or training program.
- Receiving child protective services.
- Participating in an assigned activity for the Virginia Initiative for Education and Work. (VIEW)
- Participating in a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training (SNAPET) plan of participation.
Required Documents:
- Child’s citizenship or legal residence in the United States.
- Child’s immunization requirements as outlined by the State Board of Health.
- Household income that does not exceed the limits of the locality in which you reside.
Step 1: Create a CommonHelp Virginia account
- Common Help Virginia: Navigate to apply for all benefits programs
- Sign in or Create a New Account
Step 2: Start a New Child Care Subsidy Application
After responding to the food security questions, check Child Care, and you will be directed to the application.
Step 3: Upload the Required Documents
At the end of the application, you will have the opportunity to attach the following documents via PDF, Photo, or scanned document:
- You and/or your spouses ’ W-2s
- Your school/work schedule, if applicable
- ID
- Proof of Residency
- Child’s birth certificate
- Choice of Provider Information
Step 4: Submit the Application
* Incomplete applications may cause delays. An interview may be required for some.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
Typical turnaround time → 10–45 days depending on office volume.
Common Help allows you to check the status of your application once submitted from the main menu, under “ Check Benefits”
After You’re Approved: What Happens Next?
A letter will be mailed to you explaining your benefits and monthly co-pay (our next blog will help explain this portion)
We recognize the process can be overwhelming and aim to make the task easier for parents who are already tackling so much. Remember, help is available; you can call VDSS for assistance at (804) 726-7000 or contact your local office.
Resources:
https://www.dss.virginia.gov/family/cc/assistance.cgi/1000
https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/access/
https://www.childcare.virginia.gov/families/paying-for-child-care
https://www.childcare.virginia.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/62508/638858466212430000
