Child care programs may offer different options to help families find the most affordable care. Review the possible available options and how they might apply to your family.
Subsidy – The Missouri Subsidy Assistance System works with Missouri families to help them afford child care. Eligibility depends on families’ size and income. To check your eligibility and apply, click here
Sliding Scale – Within the subsidy system, the sliding fee is the portion of the child care payment the family is responsible for paying based on a family’s size and income.
Copayment – The copayment is the remainder of the cost of care after the subsidy payment and sliding fee are applied. Families are responsible for paying a copay if the cost of care exceeds the total of the subsidy payment and sliding fee.
Multi Child Discount – Some child care programs offer discounts if a family has more than one child enrolled.
Income-Based Payment – Some programs charge families based on their income. That means that the individual program works with families to determine what they can pay based on their income.
Scholarships – Some child care programs have funding to offer scholarships for children. Eligibility is determined by the individual program.
Military Family Resources – There are financial options available for military families and programs in place to assist children and families of active duty members and veterans. For more information, contact Child Care Aware® of America at 1-800-424-2246 or [email protected].