How does it work?
If you qualify:
- ELRC will pay part of your child care costs – this is called a subsidy.
- The subsidized child care program allows parents to choose any participating regulated child care program.
- It does not cost you more to choose a high quality child care or pre-K program for your child.
- If funding is unavailable at the time you apply, your child may be placed on a wait list until additional funding becomes available.
Set your child up to succeed by calling 844-PHL-preK for help applying.
Am I Eligible?
You are likely eligible for a child care subsidy if:
- You must live in Pennsylvania
- Have a child or children who need child care while you work or attend an education program
- Meet income guidelines for your family size (see below)
- Work 20 or more hours a week or
- Work 10 hours a week and train 10 hours a week
- Have a promise of a job that will start within 30 days of your application for subsidized child care
- Teen parents must attend an education program
- The child who needs care must be a citizen of the United States or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residency
- Have proof of identification for each parent or caretaker in the home
- Have proof that each person on your application is a member of your family
Family Size |
Maximum Yearly Family Income (2019) |
|---|---|
| 2 | $33,820 |
| 3 | $42,660 |
| 4 | $51,500 |
| 5 | $60,340 |
| 6 | $69,180 |
| 7 | $78,020 |
| 8 | $86,860 |
Note:
*Foster Parents may not have to meet income requirements.
* A live-in companion is only counted in the household if he/she is a parent of a child living in the household for whom the subsidy is being sought. If a non-parent is living in the household and is married to the parent, then they also must meet eligibility guidelines.
* A live-in companion is only counted in the household if he/she is a parent of a child living in the household for whom the subsidy is being sought. If a non-parent is living in the household and is married to the parent, then they also must meet eligibility guidelines.
How to Apply
Apply for the subsidy by
- Contacting the ELRC directly at 1 888-461-KIDS (5437) and an ELRC Specialist will assist you.
- To apply for subsidized child care on line, please visit the state’s online Compass website.
- You may also print a subsidized child care application and mail or drop off to your closest ELRC office. Learn more on the ELRC website.
Where can I learn more?
For more information:
- Call 844-PHL-preK (844-745-7735)
- Visit the ELRC website here
- To find your local ELRC contact the Child Care Works Helpline at 888-461-5437.