Alabama Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers: The Ultimate 2025 Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is written for single mothers in Alabama who need fast, accurate, and no‑nonsense help paying for child care. It focuses on the Alabama Child Care Subsidy Program and other real options that reduce your out‑of‑pocket costs.

Source note: All dollar amounts, eligibility rules, and contacts come from Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR), Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education (ADECE), U.S. HHS/ACF, and other official sources verified in 2024–2025. Links below go straight to the official page mentioned.

Quick Help Box

• Apply online for Alabama’s child care subsidy in the ARISE CARE Family Portal: Apply or Log In to ARISE CARE Family Portal. If you need a code or help logging in, contact ARISE support at 888-344-0934 or email arisesupport@citi-us.com (Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. CT). (al-arise-publicaccess.citigovcloud.com)
• Not sure which regional office serves you? Call your region’s Child Care Management Agency (CMA). Find your region and phone number in the state’s official CMA list: Child Care Management Agencies (map + contacts). Direct CMA phone numbers (by region) are in the PDF here: CMA Agency List (phone and address). (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Know your co-pay before you apply. Alabama’s current weekly parent fee ranges from $0\ast \ast upto\ast \ast$45 per child, depending on income and family size. Full tables are in this guide below and in DHR’s fact sheet. Income & Parent Fee Chart (Jan 1, 2025). (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Pick a provider that accepts the subsidy. Search the state directory: Find Licensed Child Care & Check Violations/Inspections. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Short on time? Call DHR Child Care Services at 334-242-1425 or toll‑free 866-528-1694 for help, or use the statewide county directory: County DHR Office Contacts. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (What to do first)

Who qualifies for Alabama’s Child Care Subsidy (and how it works)

Start here: Alabama funds child care for low‑ and moderate‑income families who live in the state and are working and/or in school or training. Eligibility is determined regionally by Child Care Management Agencies (CMAs). Parents choose any eligible provider (licensed or legally exempt under the 2018 Child Care Safety Act) that is approved to accept the subsidy. (dhr.alabama.gov)

• You must live in Alabama, be employed and/or in school/training, and meet gross monthly income limits (no deductions). The parent fee may be waived for families at or below 100% FPL or if you fall into a DHR priority category (Protective Services, Foster Care, Early Head Start–Child Care, TANF—Other Relative, and Special Needs). (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Alabama uses 12‑month eligibility. If your income later exceeds the “income cutoff,” benefits end before the 12 months are over (cutoff amounts by family size are listed below). (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Your weekly parent fee (co‑pay) is fixed by income band and family size and is paid directly to the provider (or deducted from what DHR pays). Fees range from $0\ast \ast upto\ast \ast$45 per child per week under the current schedule. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• CMAs approve care and authorize your child’s provider. Find your CMA contact here: CMA Map & Phones. (dhr.alabama.gov)

2025 Income limits and weekly parent fees (Initial Eligibility)

These are the official “Initial Eligibility Monthly Income Scale and Parental Fee” figures effective January 1, 2025. Remember: DHR counts gross income (before taxes and deductions). Weekly income is multiplied by 4.333 to compute monthly. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Table A. Initial eligibility monthly income ranges and weekly fee per child

Source: Alabama DHR Child Care Fact Sheet (Jan 1, 2025). (dhr.alabama.gov)

2025 Continuing eligibility and fees (181–200% FPL)

If you’re already on the program, you may stay eligible at higher income bands during your 12‑month period, with weekly fees of $42\ast \ast (181–190$45 (191–200% FPL) per child. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Table B. Continuing eligibility monthly incomes (recertification must not exceed the $45 column)

Source: Alabama DHR Child Care Fact Sheet (Jan 1, 2025). (dhr.alabama.gov)

Income cutoffs that end participation early

If your income jumps above these monthly amounts, assistance ends before the 12‑month period is over:

• Family of 2: $4,598
• Family of 3: $5,680
• Family of 4: $6,761
• Family of 5: $7,843
• Family of 6: $8,925
• Family of 7: $9,128
• Family of 8+: $9,331 (dhr.alabama.gov)

How to apply (step‑by‑step)

Do this first: apply online and call your CMA to confirm documents and processing.

• Create or log into your account in the ARISE CARE Family Portal. If you don’t have a registration code, call 888-344-0934 (Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. CT). (al-arise-publicaccess.citigovcloud.com)
• Contact your CMA to confirm your county’s process and to ask about any waitlist for your child’s age group. Use the official list: CMA Map & Agency Phones or the direct PDF with numbers. Examples: Birmingham Region 205-941-0115; Huntsville/North Central 256-534-5110; Mobile 251-433-2878; Montgomery 334-270-4100; Dothan 334-712-7777; Opelika 334-749-8400; Tuscaloosa 205-562-6022; Talladega 256-362-3852; Fort Payne (through Huntsville CMA) 256-534-5110. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Choose a provider approved to accept subsidy. Search here: Find Licensed Child Care & Check Inspections. Look for Alabama Quality STARS ratings and read recent inspection results. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Expect to use DHR’s Time & Attendance System (TAS). You or your authorized alternate must check your child in and out each day at the provider’s point‑of‑service device; payments to providers are based on TAS records. Read: Time & Attendance System (TAS). (dhr.alabama.gov)

Required documents (typical; your CMA will confirm):

• Government photo ID for the parent/caretaker and proof of Alabama residency (e.g., lease, utility bill).
• Proof of income for the last 4 weeks (pay stubs), or employer letter if newly hired; include unearned income (SSI/SSA, child support received). DHR counts gross income. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Proof of work, school, or training (e.g., class schedule, enrollment or training letter, or a work schedule).
• Child’s birth certificate and immunization record (for enrollment at most centers). For choosing a provider and safety basics, see Choosing Child Care in Alabama: A Parent’s Guide. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Any documents showing you’re in a priority category (if applicable): DHR Protective Services, Foster Care, Early Head Start–Child Care, TANF other relative, or Special Needs (physician documentation). If you’re in one of these, your weekly parent fee may be waived. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Reality check:

• Processing time depends on region, how quickly you upload documents, and provider availability. Protective Services and similar priority cases are typically expedited. Stay in touch with your CMA caseworker by phone if you have deadlines at work or school. Use the official CMA numbers listed above. (dhr.alabama.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the portal gives you technical trouble, call 888-344-0934 (ARISE support).
• If you can’t get through to your CMA, call DHR Child Care Services at 334-242-1425 or 866-528-1694 and ask for Child Care Subsidy. Or contact your County DHR Office for help routing your request. (dhr.alabama.gov)

How much will DHR pay? Understanding reimbursement rates vs. your co‑pay

Alabama sets maximum weekly subsidy rates by region, provider type (Center, Group Family Day Care, Family Day Care), and child age (Infant/Toddler, Preschool, School‑Age). Providers in Alabama Quality STARS earn tiered add‑ons (2%–10% over base). The most recent published reimbursement schedule is below; many providers charge more than the state maximums, so you may owe a difference in addition to your parent fee. Always ask providers whether they accept the subsidy “as payment in full” beyond your parent fee. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Table C. Examples of maximum weekly full‑time subsidy rates (Base rates; selected regions)

Source: Provider Reimbursement Rate Chart (effective April 11, 2022; includes STAR tiers). For current market prices (what providers actually charge), see DHR’s 2024 Market Rate & Cost Study. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Tip: Compare these maximums to your provider’s posted tuition. If tuition is higher than the state max + your parent fee, you may owe a “balance.” Ask the provider to confirm in writing whether any balance is waived.

Real‑world example (how the numbers shake out)

• Situation: Single mom, two kids (ages 2 and 5), living in Jefferson County, gross monthly income $3,100\ast \ast .Familysize\ast \ast 3\ast \ast fitswithinthe“121–130$2,583–$2,797)onlyifincomewerelower;at\ast \ast$3,100, she’s above 130% but under 141% for a family of 3 (131–140% FPL is $2,798–$3,012; 141–150% is $3,013–$3,228). Her income falls in the 131–140% band, so her weekly fee is $27 per child. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• If she chooses a Birmingham‑area center where the state’s maximum for preschool is $180\ast \ast andinfant/toddleris\ast \ast$195, DHR pays up to those amounts (plus any STAR tier for the provider). She pays the weekly parent fee of $27 per child. If the center charges more than those max rates, she may owe the difference unless the provider agrees to accept subsidy + fee as full payment. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• If she later gets a raise that pushes her above the “income cutoff” (for 3 people, $5,680/month), assistance could end before 12 months. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Picking a provider (quality, safety, and TAS)

Action item: Before you enroll, look up the program in the state directory to confirm license status, last inspection date, and any violations. Use: State Day Care Directory and Search. (dhr.alabama.gov)

• Check Alabama Quality STARS rating (voluntary quality system). STAR‑rated providers in subsidy receive a tiered rate add‑on (2%–10% above base). View Alabama Quality STARS info and DHR consumer statement. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Understand TAS: You (or an alternate you designate) must check your child in/out daily on the provider’s POS device. Missing transactions can delay or reduce payments. Read the parent FAQ on the Time & Attendance System (TAS). (dhr.alabama.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a provider won’t accept subsidy, ask your CMA for nearby providers that do. Or filter your search in the statewide directory to find licensed centers/homes taking subsidy. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Other child care help in Alabama (use these with or without DHR subsidy)

• Alabama First Class Pre‑K (for 4‑year‑olds). It’s free, high quality, and offered in every county. Pre‑registration for the 2025–26 school year opened January 15, 2025, with local lotteries in March (dates vary by district). Apply at prek.alaceed.alabama.gov and check your local school system’s dates (e.g., Autauga County ran Jan 15–Mar 16; Montgomery Public Schools ran Jan 15–Mar 8 with a March 12 lottery). (children.alabama.gov, acboe.net, mps.k12.al.us)
• Head Start/Early Head Start (birth–5). Free early learning for families with low incomes, and for children who are homeless, in foster care, or receiving TANF/SNAP/SSI. Start here: How to Apply for Head Start (locator + hotline). State info: Alabama Head Start (ADECE). (headstart.gov, children.alabama.gov)
• Transitional Child Care (TCC) for families leaving TANF. If your Family Assistance (TANF) case closed and you need care due to employment, you can get help if you apply within six months of case closure (fee applies). Contact your county DHR or CMA. Program page: Transitional Child Care. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• WIOA training supportive services. If you’re enrolled in job training through an Alabama Career Center, WIOA can reimburse limited supportive services—INCLUDING child care—up to $500 total (case‑by‑case; reimbursement after receipts; one request per month; transportation is not covered). Ask your local Career Center about WIOA and supportive services. Policy: WIOA Supportive Services (GWID PY2023‑04) (PDF shows details). Find Career Centers: WIOA Services page. (wioa-alabama.org)
• Alabama Family Central. One searchable hub linking to child care, early learning, and family supports (backed by ADECE & DHR). Start here: Alabama Family Central – Child Care Services. (alabamafamilycentral.org)
• Healthy Child Care Alabama (free nurse consultants for child care health/safety, can be useful if your child has medical needs). Info: ADPH – Healthy Child Care Alabama. (alabamapublichealth.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• For community resources, dial 2‑1‑1 (2‑1‑1 Connects Alabama is included in DHR’s parent resources) or ask your CMA for local referrals. DHR’s consumer statement lists parent resources and 2‑1‑1. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Application Checklist

Use this to get it all done in one sitting.

• Photo ID and proof of Alabama residency (lease, utility bill)
• Proof of gross income (last 4 weeks of pay stubs; include SSA/SSI, child support received)
• Work/school/training verification (work schedule, enrollment letter, class schedule)
• Child documents: birth certificate, immunization record (your provider may ask for this at enrollment)
• Provider choice (name, address, license number if possible)
• If in a priority category (Protective Services, Foster Care, EHS‑CC, TANF other relative, Special Needs), have documentation ready

Source for income rules, priority fee waivers and definitions: DHR Child Care Fact Sheet (Jan 1, 2025) and Consumer Statement (2024). (dhr.alabama.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Applying before you have proof of work/school/training ready. Upload those right away to avoid delays.
• Picking a provider that isn’t approved to accept subsidy. Confirm in the state directory and with your CMA before you enroll. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Missing daily TAS check‑ins/outs. If you don’t swipe in/out, providers may not get paid for that day; you could be billed. Ask your provider to show you the TAS device on day one. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Assuming your co‑pay is the only cost. If the provider’s tuition is higher than Alabama’s maximum reimbursement, you may owe the difference. Compare the provider’s tuition to the published regional max (plus any STAR tier). (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Losing eligibility by crossing the income cutoff without noticing. Check the cutoff table in this guide and plan for raises or extra hours. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Timelines (what to expect)

• Pre‑K: Pre‑registration generally opens in mid‑January with random selection in March; each site posts its own deadlines. Watch your district’s website and the ADECE Pre‑K page. Examples for 2025–26 show registrations from Jan 15 to early/mid‑March, with lotteries mid‑March. (children.alabama.gov, acboe.net, mps.k12.al.us)
• Subsidy approvals: There’s no single statewide processing time published; speed depends on how complete your documents are, your CMA’s caseload, and provider availability. If you have a work start date, tell your CMA. Use the CMA phone numbers above to follow up. (dhr.alabama.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If urgent (work start date this week), call your CMA and ask for the earliest appointment/phone interview. If you can’t reach your CMA, call DHR Child Care at 334-242-1425 or 866-528-1694 for assistance. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Taxes that can help with child care (file even if you used the subsidy)

• Federal Child and Dependent Care Credit (CDCTC). Nonrefundable; generally up to 35% of up to $3,000\ast \ast ofqualifyingexpensesforonechild,orupto\ast \ast$6,000 for two or more, with the percentage decreasing as income rises. See IRS Publication 503 for the rules and how to file Form 2441. IRS Publication 503 (Child and Dependent Care Expenses). (irs.gov)
• Dependent Care FSA (through your employer). Lets you pay qualifying child care with pre‑tax dollars (limits set by IRS and your employer). Check your HR/benefits office. See IRS Pub 503 for how employer benefits interact with the CDCTC. IRS Publication 503. (irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re unsure whether to use an FSA or the credit, ask a tax preparer to run both ways with your actual costs and income.

Resources by region (CMA contacts and counties served)

If you’re not sure which region handles your case, this is your shortcut. The CMAs below determine eligibility, authorize care, and register providers to accept subsidy.

• Birmingham Region (Blount, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Walker) — 205-941-0115 — Child Care Central, 85 Bagby Dr, Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35209. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Mobile Region (Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Mobile, Monroe, Washington) — 251-433-2878 — Child Care South, 1501 Government St, Mobile, AL 36604. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Tuscaloosa Region (Bibb, Choctaw, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Marengo, Marion, Perry, Pickens, Sumter, Tuscaloosa) — 205-562-6022 / 205-562-6043 — ccctus@dhr.alabama.gov. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Talladega Region (Calhoun, Clay, Cleburne, Coosa, Randolph, Talladega) — 256-362-3852 — ccctal@dhr.alabama.gov. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Huntsville Region (Colbert, Cullman, Franklin, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Morgan, Winston) — 256-534-5110 — CMA of North Central Alabama. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Fort Payne Region (Cherokee, DeKalb, Etowah, Jackson, Marshall) — 256-534-5110 (through Huntsville CMA). (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Opelika Region (Chambers, Lee, Macon, Russell, Tallapoosa) — 334-749-8400 — Child Care Resource Center. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Dothan Region (Barbour, Coffee, Crenshaw, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Pike) — 334-712-7777 — Family Guidance Center (Dothan). (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Montgomery Region (Autauga, Bullock, Butler, Chilton, Covington, Dallas, Elmore, Lowndes, Montgomery, Wilcox) — 334-270-4100 — Family Guidance Center (Montgomery). (dhr.alabama.gov)

If you prefer, you can also find your local county DHR office here: County DHR Office Contacts. (dhr.alabama.gov)

A note on costs vs. state maximums

Alabama’s 2024 Market Rate & Cost Study shows that in most regions, what providers charge at the 75th percentile is above the state reimbursement rate. This is why some parents face a “balance” beyond their weekly fee. It varies by age, region, and provider type. See: 2024 Alabama Cost of Child Care Study (Market Rate Survey & Narrow Cost Analysis). (dhr.alabama.gov)

Diverse Communities: tailored tips and resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: When provider‑shopping, use the state directory and ask about inclusion policies (family forms, bathroom policy, staff training). If you feel discriminated against, you can file a complaint with Child Care Licensing Intake at 866-528-1694 or 334-242-1425. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a child with disabilities: If your child has special needs documented by a licensed professional, that may qualify as a DHR priority category and can waive the parent fee. Also, ask your provider about accommodations and staff training. Health and safety training (including special topics) is supported by Healthy Child Care Alabama (free nurse consultants). (dhr.alabama.gov, alabamapublichealth.gov)
• Veteran single mothers and active‑duty families: If you or the other parent is active‑duty, look into DoD fee assistance and MilitaryChildCare.com. Rules and amounts vary by branch and location; your Family Readiness office can confirm current caps. Use DHR subsidy if you are not covered by a military fee‑assistance slot (some families use one or the other, not both).
• Immigrant and refugee moms: DHR provides free communication assistance and translated materials. Look for “Free Communication Assistance” and language options at the bottom of DHR pages and on the Subsidy Overview page. Ask your CMA for an interpreter if needed. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Tribal citizens: The Poarch Band of Creek Indians administers Tribal CCDF child care assistance for eligible tribal families in Alabama. Contact: 251-368-9136, 5811 Jack Springs Rd, Atmore, AL 36502. If you’re a tribal citizen from another nation living in Alabama, contact your tribe’s CCDF office (ACF maintains a national directory). (acf.hhs.gov, pci-nsn.gov)
• Rural single moms: Ask your CMA about family child care homes in your county and whether any providers offer non‑traditional hours. If distance is an issue, ask your provider about the TAS “alternate cardholder” option to authorize a trusted adult for check‑in/out. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Single fathers: Same rules and portals apply. Use the same CMA contacts and forms listed above.
• Language access: The DHR site includes links in Spanish and many other languages; you can also request interpreter services from your CMA. See the multi‑language footer on Subsidy Overview pages. (dhr.alabama.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you hit a barrier that’s not getting solved, call DHR Child Care Services at 334-242-1425 or 866-528-1694 and ask for help escalating the issue. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Quick tables you can use today

Table D. Your weekly parent fee at a glance (per child)

Source: DHR Fact Sheet, Jan 1, 2025. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Table E. Sample state maximum weekly base rates (you may owe a difference if the provider charges more)

Full chart (with Group Family Day Care and School‑Age, plus STAR tiers): Provider Rates PDF. Market prices by county and 75th percentile: 2024 Market Rate & Cost Study. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Table F. Where to go for specific tasks

FAQs (Alabama‑specific)

• How do I apply online if I don’t have a registration code?
  • Use the “Register for Benefits” option in the ARISE CARE Family Portal. If you get stuck, call 888-344-0934. (al-arise-publicaccess.citigovcloud.com)
• What income counts?
  • DHR uses gross income (before taxes/deductions). Weekly income is multiplied by 4.333 to get monthly. Include wages, SSI, SSA, etc. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• How much is my weekly parent fee?
  • It’s set by income band and family size. Fees are $0–$45 per child per week. See Tables A and D above. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Can my fee be waived?
  • Yes, if your income is at or below 100% FPL or you’re in a DHR priority category: Protective Services, Foster Care, Early Head Start–Child Care, TANF—Other Relative, Special Needs. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• How long does eligibility last?
  • Up to 12 months. If income exceeds the “income cutoff” for your family size, benefits can end early. Cutoff amounts are listed above. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Do I have to use a licensed provider?
  • Providers must be licensed or legally exempt per the 2018 Child Care Safety Act and must be registered to accept subsidy. Check the state directory for license/exemption and inspections. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• What is TAS and why does it matter?
  • The Time & Attendance System records daily check‑in/out. DHR pays providers based on TAS data. If you miss swipes, days may not be paid. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Can I switch providers?
  • Yes—contact your CMA first so they can update your authorization and the new provider’s TAS access. Use your regional CMA contact. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• I’m starting a new job next week. Can my case be expedited?
  • Tell your CMA your work start date and ask about the soonest appointment/document review. If needed, call DHR Child Care Services at 334-242-1425 or 866-528-1694. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Is there a waitlist?
  • It varies by region and age group. Your CMA can tell you current status. Use the CMA numbers above. (dhr.alabama.gov)

What to do if your application is denied (or delayed)

• Ask for the reason in writing and exactly what’s missing.
• Use DHR’s “Notice of Client’s Rights” to request a fair hearing or administrative review if you believe the decision is incorrect. Your CMA provides this and other required consumer documents. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• If you need immediate care to keep a job, apply to Head Start/Early Head Start (if eligible), ask your provider about sliding‑fee options, or check First Class Pre‑K if you have a 4‑year‑old. (headstart.gov, children.alabama.gov)

About fees, provider rates, and real costs (a quick reality check)

• The weekly parent fee table tells you the minimum you’ll pay. But if your chosen provider’s tuition is higher than Alabama’s maximum reimbursement, you may owe a balance. The gap tends to be larger in urban regions and for infants. Compare your provider’s tuition with the maximums in the Provider Rate Chart, and ask if any “balance” is waived. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• STAR‑rated programs can receive 2%–10% more than the base rates; ask your provider their STAR level (1–5). (dhr.alabama.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t afford the balance at your first‑choice program, ask your CMA for other STAR‑rated options nearby that meet your schedule. Use the directory filters. (dhr.alabama.gov)

“Plan B” options if subsidy isn’t available yet

• Ask your CMA about short‑term arrangements (part‑time authorizations) while you wait for a full‑time opening.
• Check your local school system’s First Class Pre‑K sites if your child is 4 and registration is open. Deadlines are usually mid‑January through March with lotteries in March. (children.alabama.gov, acsboe.org)
• Apply to Head Start/Early Head Start and ask to be placed on the waitlist if classes are full. (headstart.gov)
• If you are in job training, ask the Career Center about WIOA supportive services for up to $500 in reimbursements (receipts required). (wioa-alabama.org)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Alabama Department of Human Resources, Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education, U.S. HHS/ACF, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards (primary sources, link testing, update tracking). We’re independent researchers—not a government agency—and we can’t guarantee individual outcomes.

Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.

Corrections or updates? Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48–72 hours.

Disclaimer

Program rules, income limits, provider rates, and timelines can change. Always confirm details with your regional Child Care Management Agency or Alabama DHR. Use the official contacts and links in this guide before making financial or childcare decisions.

Sources (selected)

• Alabama DHR, Child Care Subsidy Overview (includes income/fee charts, provider rates, consumer statement, CMA map). (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Alabama DHR, Child Care Fact Sheet (Initial/Continuing Eligibility & Parent Fee Chart; effective Jan 1, 2025). (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Alabama DHR, Provider Reimbursement Rate Chart (effective Apr 11, 2022; includes STAR tier percentages). (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Alabama DHR, 2024 Market Rate & Cost Study (child care prices and gaps). (dhr.alabama.gov)
• ARISE CARE Family Portal (apply/manage subsidy; helpdesk 888‑344‑0934). (al-arise-publicaccess.citigovcloud.com)
• Alabama DHR Time & Attendance System (TAS). (dhr.alabama.gov)
• CMA regional contact PDF with phone numbers and counties served. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• ADECE First Class Pre‑K (state pre‑K program; registration timelines and statewide info). (children.alabama.gov)
• Head Start/Early Head Start (How to Apply; eligibility groups). (headstart.gov)
• WIOA Supportive Services Policy (GWID PY2023‑04; up to $500 reimbursement; rules). (wioa-alabama.org)
• County DHR Office Directory (local office contacts). (dhr.alabama.gov)
• ACF Tribal CCDF contact for Poarch Band of Creek Indians (phone 251-368-9136). (acf.hhs.gov)
• IRS Publication 503 (Child & Dependent Care tax rules). (irs.gov)
• DHR Consumer Statement (required documents given to families; links to parent resources and 2‑1‑1). (dhr.alabama.gov)

This guide aims to be practical, fast to scan, and strictly sourced. If a link is broken or a number has changed, please let us know so we can update it quickly.

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