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Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Maryland

Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel

Maryland Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers (2025)

Last updated: September 2025


This is a practical, no‑fluff guide for single moms in Maryland who need help paying for child care now. It includes real dollar amounts, income limits, timelines, phone numbers, and direct links to official sources. It also covers workarounds while Maryland’s main child care program is partially frozen for new applicants.

Citations follow each section so you can verify every number before you spend time or money.

Quick help (start here)

What’s happening right now (September 2025): CCS Enrollment Freeze and who’s exempt

  • Maryland’s Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program paused new awards for many families on May 1, 2025 after enrollment doubled from about 21,000 kids (Jan 2023) to over 45,000 kids (2025). You can still apply; approved families go on a “Frozen Status List” (a waitlist) until funding opens. Providers continue being paid for children already in the program. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)
  • Important exemptions: families receiving TANF/TCA or SSI are not subject to the freeze. They can apply now and, if eligible, receive a scholarship. Families can also add a new child to an existing active scholarship. Phone: 877‑227‑0125. Portal: family.childcareportals.org. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)
  • Processing still happens: your application is reviewed and, if eligible, you’re placed on the Frozen Status List and contacted when funds are available. Keep documents current to avoid delays. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Program #1 (statewide): Maryland Child Care Scholarship (CCS)

Most single mothers will try CCS first because it can cover a large share of your weekly bill at licensed or registered programs participating in Maryland EXCELS.

The very first step

Who qualifies (snapshot)

  • Maryland resident, working or in approved school/training (for two‑parent households, both must meet activity rules).
  • Child is under 13 (or up to 19 with qualifying disability).
  • Meet income limits or receive TCA/TANF or SSI. Parent citizenship is not required; the child must be a U.S. citizen or qualified non‑citizen. Immunizations must meet state standards (or have an exemption). (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

2025 CCS income limits (Initial Income Scale for new applications)

Effective 12/15/2024 (used for new applications), your gross income must be at or below the amounts below to qualify initially. Families already on CCS use a slightly higher “Continuation” scale at redetermination.

Household size Maximum annual income (Initial)
2 $76,117
3 $94,026
4 $111,936
5 $129,846
6 $147,756
7 $151,114
8 $154,472
9 $157,830
10 $161,188
11 $164,546
12 $167,904

Source: MSDE CCS page (Initial scale effective 12/15/2024; Continuation scale effective 4/22/2024). (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

What CCS pays (weekly reimbursement “scholarship rates”)

CCS pays up to a set weekly rate by region, child age, and provider type (family child care home or child care center). Your family may owe a co‑pay and any amount above the state rate if your provider charges more. Below are examples of average weekly rates (formal care) MSDE posts (last updated 5/23/2022).

Region (counties) Infant: family child care Infant: center Age 2+: family child care Age 2+: center
Region X (Howard & Montgomery) $325.00 $481.00 $300.00 $381.00
Region W (Anne Arundel, Calvert, Carroll, Charles, Prince George’s) $270.00 $370.00 $230.00 $262.00
Baltimore City (BC) $210.00 $303.00 $182.00 $250.00

Full regional tables are on MSDE’s scholarship rates page. Note: rates are state reimbursements and may lag market prices; copays and provider charges can change. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Reality check

  • With the 2025 freeze, most new non‑TCA/SSI families are waitlisted even if they meet the income/activity rules. If you receive TCA/TANF or SSI, you are exempt and can receive a scholarship now. If you already have an active CCS and want to add a baby, you can request to add the child even during the freeze. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

How to apply (do this exactly)

  • Register and apply online: Child Care Scholarship Family Portal. Upload your Fast‑Track documents right away:
    • Proof of work/school/training (work schedule or enrollment letter).
    • Proof of address (lease, utility bill).
    • Proof of income for the last 4 weeks (all adults in household). Then, within 15 days, upload all remaining items MSDE requests (IDs for all household members, immunizations, any other income, etc.). Phone support: 877‑227‑0125. After hours: 855‑435‑7410. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Required documents (common list)

  • Photo ID (head of household), birth certificates/immigration documents for children.
  • Four consecutive weeks of pay stubs (or an employer letter), plus any other income (child support, unemployment, etc.).
  • Proof of approved activity (work/training/school schedule).
  • Provider information (licensed/registered and participating in Maryland EXCELS). (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Timelines

  • Fast‑Track review: about 3 business days; temporary eligibility up to 60 days while your full packet is reviewed.
  • Convert to 52‑week scholarship when your full packet is approved.
  • During the freeze, eligible non‑exempt families are placed on the Frozen Status List (waitlist) until funding is available. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Co‑pays and what you owe

  • MSDE sets a “family co‑payment” that appears on your scholarship certificate; you pay your co‑pay plus any provider charge above the state rate. Ask your provider to show you their weekly rate and compare it to the CCS rate for your region/age group before you sign an agreement. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

How to find a provider that takes CCS

  • Your provider must participate in Maryland EXCELS. Use the “Find a Program” directory to filter by location, hours, infant care, languages, transportation, special needs, and more. If you’re stuck, call LOCATE at 877‑261‑0060 and ask for CCS‑accepting programs with openings. (marylandexcels.org, marylandfamilynetwork.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • If you’re not on TCA/SSI and hit the CCS freeze, jump to free Pre‑K (for 3s/4s), Head Start/Early Head Start, and check your county’s add‑ons (Montgomery County WPA is active; PG County offers Pre‑K with private providers). If you’re a TCA/TANF or SSI recipient, you’re exempt—apply again and call CCS at 877‑227‑0125 to flag your case as exempt. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org, montgomerycountymd.gov, epi.pgcps.org)

Program #2 (statewide): Public Pre‑K (free for many families)

Maryland is expanding full‑day Pre‑K through the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. This can eliminate most or all preschool/Pre‑K costs for your 3‑ or 4‑year‑old during school hours.

Most important action

  • If your child is age 4 by September 1, contact your local school system right away to enroll for the current school year (or waitlist if seats are full). Many districts also offer seats for age 3. Phone numbers for each county office are listed on MSDE’s “Accessing Pre‑K” page. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Who qualifies and what it costs

  • Tier I: families at or below 300% FPL get full‑day Pre‑K at no cost.
  • Tier II: 300%–600% FPL pay on a sliding scale (MSDE is finalizing details; some public settings currently charge no family fee).
  • Tier III: above 600% FPL, you pay full cost. (blueprint.marylandpublicschools.org)

Age cutoffs

2025 FPL and 300% FPL amounts (to see if you’re Tier I)

Household size 100% FPL (2025) 300% FPL (Tier I cap)
2 $21,150 $63,450
3 $26,650 $79,950
4 $32,150 $96,450
5 $37,650 $112,950
6 $43,150 $129,450
7 $48,650 $145,950
8 $54,150 $162,450

Source: HHS 2025 Poverty Guidelines; Blueprint Tier rules. (aspe.hhs.gov, blueprint.marylandpublicschools.org)

Where to enroll and who to call (examples)

  • Baltimore City Schools Early Learning: 443‑642‑3990 x4106.
  • Montgomery County Public Schools Early Childhood: 240‑453‑2570.
  • Prince George’s County Public Schools Early Learning: 240‑724‑1924.
  • Frederick County Early Childhood: 240‑236‑5323 (5ECE).

Full county list on MSDE’s Early Childhood “Accessing Pre‑K” page. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Private‑provider Pre‑K seats

  • Maryland funds Pre‑K in both public schools and eligible private providers (including family child care and Head Start). Your district can connect you to private seats. In Prince George’s County, a long list of private providers participate (phone numbers posted). (epi.pgcps.org, pgcps.org)

Timeline tips

  • Districts open Pre‑K enrollment in spring; seats continue to fill through summer and early fall. If your in‑boundary school is full, ask about placement at a nearby site or a Blueprint private partner. Keep calling weekly; mid‑September re‑shuffles are common. (pgcps.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • Apply to Head Start or Early Head Start (free if income‑eligible, foster, homeless, TANF/SSI/SNAP). If your 4‑year‑old misses a district Pre‑K seat, ask about a Blueprint private‑provider Pre‑K slot or partial‑day Pre‑K plus CCS (if you’re exempt from the freeze) for wraparound hours. (headstart.gov, earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Program #3 (statewide): Head Start & Early Head Start (free)

Free early learning (center‑based or home‑based) for pregnant people, infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Offers education, meals, screenings, family support, and often helps with transportation.

Eligibility (federal rules)

  • Income at or below 100% FPL (see table above).
  • Categorical eligibility (no income test): child in foster care, family experiencing homelessness, or family receiving TANF, SSI, or SNAP. Programs may enroll up to 35% of families between 100–130% FPL after prioritizing the lowest‑income and highest‑need families. (headstart.gov)

How to find a slot in Maryland

  • Use the Maryland Family Network Early Head Start directory (many sites list direct phone numbers by county). In Baltimore City, large grantees include St. Vincent de Paul and the Y in Central Maryland. Examples: St. Vincent de Paul Head Start (apply for 2025‑26); Y Head Start locations across the city. (marylandfamilynetwork.org, vincentbaltimore.org, ymaryland.org)

Typical documents

  • Child’s birth certificate, proof of address, immunizations, and income proof (tax return, W‑2, pay stubs). If homeless, in foster care, or receiving TANF/SSI/SNAP, bring documentation for categorical eligibility. (Local program will give the exact list.) (marylandfamilynetwork.org)

Timeline reality

  • Head Start accepts year‑round if seats open; many programs finalize rosters in late summer. If you’re over income, still apply; some programs have limited “over‑income” capacity or consider special circumstances. (headstart.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

County add‑on (Montgomery County): Working Parents Assistance (WPA)

If you live in Montgomery County, WPA can help pay for child care when CCS is unavailable or doesn’t cover enough.

Key points

  • Income limits updated June 30, 2025. For example, a family of 3 can qualify between 94,027–94,027–119,925; a family of 4 between 111,937–111,937–144,675. Phone: 240‑777‑1177. Apply via Community Connect. Note: As of Sept 9, 2024, WPA has a waitlist for new applications for children age 6+ (school‑age). (montgomerycountymd.gov)
Household size WPA minimum WPA maximum
2 $76,118 $95,175
3 $94,027 $119,925
4 $111,937 $144,675
5 $129,847 $169,425
6 $147,757 $194,175

Full chart and details (including teen parent deductions and documentation) are on the county site. (montgomerycountymd.gov)

Documents you’ll need

  • Income proof, identity, address, child’s birth certificate, child support info (or good‑cause claim), last year’s tax return, proof you use a state‑licensed provider. (montgomerycountymd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • If your child is under 6, you may still get WPA without waitlist (as of the last county notice). Also pursue Pre‑K, Head Start/Early Head Start, and employer Dependent Care FSA if offered. Keep checking back; WPA waitlist policies can change with funding. (montgomerycountymd.gov)

Military families: DoD Fee Assistance (child care in your neighborhood)

If you can’t access on‑base child development centers, DoD can help pay for qualifying community providers.

  • How it works: Fee assistance equals the difference between your DoD “parent fee” and your provider’s rate, up to a cap (e.g., Army cap up to $1,800 per child per month). You must request care on MilitaryChildCare.com before applying for fee assistance. CCAoA phone: 800‑424‑2246. MCC support: 855‑696‑2934. (childcareaware.org)
  • Steps: Create an MCC account, request MCCYN fee assistance, accept offer, then complete the CCAoA application and upload documents (LES, birth certificate, etc.). Funding is not guaranteed; subject to availability. (childcareaware.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • Ask your installation’s CYS or family services office for temporary care options or respite programs. Use Maryland EXCELS to find accredited community providers (some accreditation is required for MCCYN). (marylandexcels.org)

Finding safe, quality child care quickly

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (keep this handy)

Need Where to go Key numbers/limits Link
Apply for CCS Family Portal (Fast‑Track) Temp award in ~3 business days; 60 days; full docs due in 15 days CCS Family Portal (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)
CCS freeze status Exempt if on TCA/TANF or SSI; others waitlisted Phone 877‑227‑0125; After‑hours 855‑435‑7410 CCS Enrollment Freeze FAQ (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)
Free Pre‑K Up to 300% FPL free; 300–600% sliding Check age 4 by 9/1 Pre‑K Expansion overview (blueprint.marylandpublicschools.org)
Head Start/EHS Free at ≤100% FPL or foster/homeless/TANF/SSI/SNAP Rolling enrollment Find EHS centers (MD list) (marylandfamilynetwork.org)
Find child care Maryland EXCELS directory Filter by openings/quality Find a Program (marylandexcels.org)
Montgomery Co. help WPA Family of 4 up to $144,675 WPA info (montgomerycountymd.gov)

Real‑world examples

  • Example 1 (TCA): Jasmine in Hagerstown receives TCA and works 20 hours/week. Even with the 2025 CCS freeze, she’s exempt. She applies via the Portal, uploads pay stubs, lease, and kids’ birth certificates. Her Fast‑Track eligibility arrives in about 3 business days with a 60‑day temporary award while the full review finishes. She chooses a Maryland EXCELS Level‑3 center nearby and pays only the state‑assigned co‑pay. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)
  • Example 2 (Pre‑K + wrap care): Dana in Laurel earns 54,000∗∗withone4‑year‑old(householdof2;∗∗54,000** with one 4‑year‑old (household of 2; **54,000 < $63,450 which is 300% FPL for a family of 2). Her child qualifies for free full‑day public Pre‑K. For before/after care, she tries CCS. If she’s waitlisted (no TCA/SSI), she asks the school for on‑site vendor programs and calls LOCATE to price out school‑age care and scholarships at the YMCA. (aspe.hhs.gov, pgcps.org)
  • Example 3 (Montgomery County): Sofia in Silver Spring earns 120,000∗∗(familyof3).She’saboveCCSinitiallimitsbutfitsthecounty’s∗∗WPA∗∗bandfor3‑personhouseholds(∗∗120,000** (family of 3). She’s above CCS initial limits but fits the county’s **WPA** band for 3‑person households (**94,027–$119,925; she’s slightly over that, so she negotiates a multi‑child discount with a provider and uses a Dependent Care FSA at work). She keeps checking WPA in case income rules shift, and locks in Pre‑K for her 4‑year‑old. (montgomerycountymd.gov)

Application Checklist (use this before you click “submit”)

  • IDs for you and your children (photo ID for you; birth certificate/immigration docs for kids).
  • Proof of Maryland address (lease, utility bill).
  • Four full weeks of pay stubs for you (and any other adult in the household) or employer letter; proof of any other income.
  • Proof of work/school/training schedule.
  • Immunization record or exemption.
  • Chosen provider’s name, license/registration, and EXCELS participation.
  • If on TCA/TANF or SSI, include current benefit proof so your case is processed as freeze‑exempt. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Uploading incomplete pay stubs (MSDE needs four consecutive weeks). Missing one page can stall your file.
  • Choosing a provider that doesn’t participate in Maryland EXCELS (your CCS won’t pay there).
  • Waiting to enroll in Pre‑K until late fall—most districts fill in spring/summer; call early and keep calling.
  • Assuming you’re ineligible for Head Start because you’re “slightly over” the income limit—programs can serve a limited number of over‑income families (100–130% FPL) and prioritize special circumstances.
  • Not flagging your TCA/TANF or SSI status in a freeze year; that exemption matters right now. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org, marylandexcels.org, blueprint.marylandpublicschools.org, headstart.gov)

Documents, rules, and where to get help (by topic)

Tables you may need

A) CCS Initial Income Limits (effective 12/15/2024)

HH size Max income HH size Max income
2 $76,117 7 $151,114
3 $94,026 8 $154,472
4 $111,936 9 $157,830
5 $129,846 10 $161,188
6 $147,756 11 $164,546
12 $167,904

Source: MSDE CCS. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

B) Sample CCS Weekly Rates (formal care)

Region Infant (home) Infant (center) Age 2+ (home) Age 2+ (center)
X (Howard, Montgomery) $325.00 $481.00 $300.00 $381.00
W (Anne Arundel, Calvert, Carroll, Charles, PG) $270.00 $370.00 $230.00 $262.00
BC (Baltimore City) $210.00 $303.00 $182.00 $250.00

Full table by region/age/provider: MSDE. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

C) 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines (48 states & DC)

HH size 100% FPL 300% FPL
2 $21,150 $63,450
3 $26,650 $79,950
4 $32,150 $96,450
5 $37,650 $112,950
6 $43,150 $129,450
7 $48,650 $145,950
8 $54,150 $162,450

Source: HHS/ASPE. (aspe.hhs.gov)

D) Montgomery County Working Parents Assistance (as of 6/30/2025)

HH size Min income Max income
2 $76,118 $95,175
3 $94,027 $119,925
4 $111,937 $144,675
5 $129,847 $169,425
6 $147,757 $194,175

Full chart: county site. (montgomerycountymd.gov)

E) Useful phones (print this)

Service Phone
CCS Central 2 (Customer Service) 877‑227‑0125
CCS after‑hours help 855‑435‑7410
LOCATE: Child Care 877‑261‑0060
Montgomery Co. WPA 240‑777‑1177
PGCPS Vendor‑Managed Child Care (before/after school) 240‑724‑1675

Sources: MSDE / MFN / County sites. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org, marylandfamilynetwork.org, montgomerycountymd.gov, pgcps.org)

Tax credits that can put cash back in your pocket

  • Maryland Child & Dependent Care Credit: usually 32% of your federal CDCTC, with higher‑income phase‑outs and a refundable option for lower incomes. Claim on Form 502CR when filing state taxes. See current income thresholds and instructions for your tax year on the Comptroller’s site. (In 2024 filings, phase‑out thresholds increased; always check the latest 502CR instructions.) For free tax help, call CASH Campaign 410‑234‑8008 or the Comptroller 1‑800‑638‑2937. (marylandtaxes.gov, marylandcomptroller.gov)

Local organizations and community help

Diverse Communities: targeted tips and resources

LGBTQ+ single mothers

  • Ask LOCATE to filter programs with inclusive policies and family restrooms; request providers with staff trained in diversity/equity. Many EXCELS profiles list languages, inclusion practices, and achievements. (marylandexcels.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a child with disabilities

  • When applying to CCS, ask your provider about “children with disabilities and/or special needs rate” processes (MSDE provides a special rate request form—check current availability). Judy Centers and school systems can fast‑track evaluations and IEP/IFSP referrals. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Veteran single mothers

  • Use DoD Fee Assistance if you can’t access on‑base care. Call 800‑424‑2246. Also ask LOCATE to search for accredited community providers recognized by MCCYN. (childcareaware.org)

Immigrant/refugee single moms

  • Parents don’t need to be U.S. citizens to receive CCS (child must be a U.S. citizen or qualified non‑citizen). Patty Centers and Judy Centers can help with enrollment forms in your language. CCS Central offers phone translation—call 877‑227‑0125 and ask for a translator. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Tribal‑specific resources

  • Maryland has limited tribal‑specific early childhood services; however, Head Start rules give tribal programs extra flexibility. If you’re a tribal member living in MD, still apply for Pre‑K/Head Start/CCS as usual. (headstart.gov)

Rural single moms (Western MD, Lower/Upper Shore)

  • Head Start/EHS grantees, Patty Centers, and school system Pre‑K are strong in rural counties. Use county‑specific phone numbers (below) to reach your Regional Licensing Office if you need to report issues or verify a provider. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Single fathers

  • All programs listed here are gender‑neutral. If both parents live together, both must meet CCS activity rules. If you’re a single dad, the same income/activity rules apply. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Language access

  • CCS Central 2 provides interpreter services by phone. Ask for a translator when you call 877‑227‑0125. Many MSDE and MFN pages are available in Spanish and other languages. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Resources by region (complaints, licensing, and local help)

If there’s a safety concern or a licensing problem, call your Regional Office of Child Care. Examples:

Full list (all counties): MSDE Regional Licensing Offices. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Timelines you can expect

  • CCS Fast‑Track: about 3 business days for a 60‑day temporary decision (if eligible), then up to several weeks for full approval. Freeze may place non‑exempt families on a waitlist (Frozen Status List). (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)
  • Pre‑K: enrollment opens in spring; seats continue to shuffle through September. Call your district office weekly if you’re waitlisted. (pgcps.org)
  • Head Start/EHS: year‑round intake with big pushes in summer and early fall; call multiple grantees if nearby. (marylandfamilynetwork.org)

What to do if nothing is available right now

  • Combine free Pre‑K (school day) with low‑cost before/after care from school vendors or community centers; ask about scholarships.
  • For infants/toddlers, call LOCATE 877‑261‑0060 to search for registered family homes with openings and sliding fees.
  • If you receive TCA/TANF or SSI, apply for CCS now (exempt from freeze). If you don’t, still apply and keep your documents updated so you’re first in line when the freeze lifts. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

10 Maryland‑specific FAQs

  1. Is the CCS freeze still in effect right now?
  • As of September 2025, MSDE says new scholarships for most families are paused; applications are processed and approved families are waitlisted until funding is available. Exempt: TCA/TANF and SSI families; adding a child to an existing active scholarship is allowed. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)
  1. I receive TCA. Can I get CCS now?
  1. Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to get CCS?
  • No. Parents do not need to be U.S. citizens. The child must be a U.S. citizen or qualified non‑citizen, and immunizations must meet Maryland standards (or have an exemption). (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)
  1. How long does CCS take?
  • Fast‑Track can issue temporary eligibility within about 3 business days; submit remaining documents within 15 days to be considered for a 52‑week award. Non‑exempt families may be waitlisted due to the freeze. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)
  1. What are the exact CCS income limits?
  • See the table above (Initial Income Scale, effective 12/15/2024)—for example, family of 3 up to 94,026∗∗,familyof4upto∗∗94,026**, family of 4 up to **111,936. Continuation (renewal) limits are higher. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)
  1. How much will CCS pay my provider?
  • It depends on your region, child’s age, and provider type. For example, in Montgomery/Howard (Region X) the state rate is up to $481/week for infants in centers; families owe their co‑pay plus any amount above the state rate. See MSDE’s rates page for your region. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)
  1. What if my provider doesn’t take CCS?
  1. Is public Pre‑K really free?
  • Yes for families at or below 300% FPL; families 300–600% FPL pay on a sliding scale (MSDE is finalizing fee methodology; many public settings currently charge no family fee). Contact your district office now. (blueprint.marylandpublicschools.org)
  1. I’m over income for Head Start—should I still apply?
  • Yes. Programs may serve up to 35% of families with incomes up to 130% FPL after prioritizing the lowest‑income and highest‑need families. Homeless, foster, TANF/SSI/SNAP recipients qualify automatically. (headstart.gov)
  1. Who do I call to report a child care safety issue?
  • Your Regional Licensing Office (for example, Montgomery 240‑314‑1400; PG 301‑333‑6940; Baltimore County 410‑583‑6200; Eastern Shore 410‑819‑5801). Full list: MSDE Regional Licensing Offices. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Maryland Family Network, local school systems, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS/ASPE), and Child Care Aware of America.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Editorial Standards: ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Disclaimer

Program details, amounts, and eligibility rules can change at any time. Always confirm the latest information directly with the Maryland State Department of Education, your local school system, or the appropriate agency before applying or making decisions.

Sources (selection)

This guide follows people‑first, inclusive, and practical standards, and includes realities like waitlists, exemptions, timelines, and Plan B options so you can act fast.

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