Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Arizona
Arizona Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers (2025)
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, no-fluff guide to getting help paying for child care in Arizona—written for single moms who need clear steps, real numbers, and fast answers.
Quick Help (Start Here)
- Apply or renew online now using the A-to-Z portal. It’s faster than paper. Use the A-to-Z Arizona portal to start or check your status. Apply or renew in the A‑to‑Z Arizona portal (official portal). (des.az.gov)
- If you can’t find care, call Arizona Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) at 1‑800‑308‑9000 for free provider referrals and help comparing options. Hours: Mon–Fri 7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.. CCR&R contact page with hours and locations. (azccrr.com)
- DES Child Care main line for questions: (602) 542‑4248. For statewide DES program numbers (including Child Care): (833) 947‑6396. DES “Contact Child Care” page and DES program numbers. (des.az.gov)
- There is a waiting list. As of July 25, 2025, DES reported 3,856 families and 6,449 children on the list. Some families began to receive release notices starting August 1, 2025 as new funds became available. How to Apply: current waitlist figures and release info and DES Child Care overview with waiting list policy. (des.az.gov)
- Documents you’ll need fast: photo ID, proof the child is a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant, proof of work/school/training (or special situation), and the DES‑contracted provider you pick. DES “How to Apply” requirements. (des.az.gov)
- Processing times: applications can take up to 30 days. Don’t miss any DES letters; unanswered requests delay or deny benefits. DES processing timeframe. (des.az.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Entrance income limit (most families): at or below 165% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
- Exit rule: assistance must stop if your income goes above 85% of Arizona’s State Median Income (SMI) (DES checks this at renewal or when you report changes). Arizona law A.R.S. § 46‑803. (azleg.gov)
- Waiting list priority: lowest‑income families first—DES releases by FPL brackets (≤100% FPL first, then 101‑110%, 111‑120%, … up to 165%). DES Child Care overview and Waiting List FAQs. (des.az.gov)
- Daily copays (minimums) if approved: Level 1–6 = 1/1 / 2 / 3/3 / 5 / 7/7 / 10 per full day per child (half for part‑day), based on your fee level tied to FPL. These minimum copays are set in rule. Arizona Administrative Code Appendix A (copay schedule). (law.cornell.edu)
- Head Start/Early Head Start: no‑cost preschool/early learning for eligible families (prioritizes income at/below 100% FPL; foster, homeless, TANF or SSI families also qualify). Arizona Head Start Association “How to Apply” and 2025 FPL reference. (azheadstart.org)
2025 FPL amounts (48 states) used by Arizona DES
These are official federal guidelines used for program eligibility; the table below also shows the DES entrance cut‑off at 165% FPL (rounded). Source: U.S. HHS/ASPE 2025 Poverty Guidelines. (aspe.hhs.gov)
| Family size | 100% FPL annual | 100% FPL monthly | 165% FPL monthly (DES entrance) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $15,650 | $1,304 | $2,152 |
| 2 | $21,150 | $1,763 | $2,908 |
| 3 | $26,650 | $2,221 | $3,664 |
| 4 | $32,150 | $2,679 | $4,421 |
| 5 | $37,650 | $3,138 | $5,178 |
| 6 | $43,150 | $3,596 | $5,933 |
| 7 | $48,650 | $4,054 | $6,689 |
| 8 | $54,150 | $4,513 | $7,446 |
Note: DES calculates eligibility using gross monthly income. Always verify with your DES worker. (des.az.gov)
What Help Is Available Right Now (Most Important First)
DES Child Care Assistance (Subsidy)
If you work, go to school/training, or have a qualifying situation (see below), DES can pay your child care provider directly. You pay a small daily copay; if your provider charges above state caps, you may owe the difference.
Key points you need to know first:
- Apply online now in the A‑to‑Z Arizona portal, or submit at a local DES Child Care office. Apply for Child Care Assistance (DES). (des.az.gov)
- Waiting list is active. Exceptions include TANF Jobs Program referrals, current Cash Assistance (CA) participants, Transitional Child Care (TCC) for those leaving CA, and DCS/tribal child welfare referrals. DES Child Care overview and Waiting List FAQs. (des.az.gov)
- Eligibility basics (for most families):
- Live in Arizona.
- Have a child under 13 needing care (or older with special needs).
- Income at or below 165% FPL.
- Be working, in approved school/training, or meet a special circumstance. DES “How to Apply” eligibility. (des.az.gov)
- Citizenship paperwork: DES requires proof the child is a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant. This is specifically listed in the application checklist. DES “How to Apply” – documents needed. (des.az.gov)
- Copays are small and fixed by your fee level:
- Full‑day per child: 1/1 / 2 / 3/3 / 5 / 7/7 / 10 (Levels 1–6). Part‑day is half. Arizona Admin. Code App. A. (law.cornell.edu)
- Processing time: up to 30 days after DES receives your application and interview. Watch your mail and respond within deadlines. DES timeline. (des.az.gov)
- Provider choice: pick any DES‑approved center, home, group home, or a qualifying relative (Non‑Certified Relative Provider) who enrolls with DES. Use the state’s search tool. Arizona Child Care Provider Search (official), and CCR&R help line: 1‑800‑308‑9000. (azccrr.com)
Who qualifies (examples of covered situations)
- Low‑income working parent at or below 165% FPL.
- Teen parent in high school, GED, ESOL, or remedial education.
- Parent residing in a homeless or domestic‑violence shelter.
- Parent unable/unavailable to care due to a physical, mental or emotional condition, court‑ordered community service, or drug treatment.
- Grandparent/guardian caring for a child when the parent does not live in the home (only the child’s income counts for that case). DES overview and How to Apply and How to Apply. (des.az.gov)
Special pathways that do NOT consider income
- Cash Assistance (TANF) recipients who are employed or in Grant Diversion.
- Referrals from the Jobs Program, Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS), or a Tribal Child Welfare program. DES overview. (des.az.gov)
Fee Levels and Copays (what you pay per day)
Arizona sets six fee levels tied to your income as a percentage of FPL. Copays are minimums—some providers may charge above the state reimbursement cap, and you pay that difference.
| Fee Level | Income band (FPL) | Minimum copay per child (Full day / Part day) |
|---|---|---|
| L1 | ≤ 85% FPL | 1.00∗∗/∗∗1.00** / **0.50 |
| L2 | >85% to 100% FPL | 2.00∗∗/∗∗2.00** / **1.00 |
| L3 | >100% to 135% FPL | 3.00∗∗/∗∗3.00** / **1.50 |
| L4 | >135% to 145% FPL | 5.00∗∗/∗∗5.00** / **2.50 |
| L5 | >145% to 155% FPL | 7.00∗∗/∗∗7.00** / **3.50 |
| L6 | >155% to 165% FPL | 10.00∗∗/∗∗10.00** / **5.00 |
Source: Arizona Administrative Code, Child Care Assistance Fee Schedule. (law.cornell.edu)
What DES pays your provider (rate caps)
DES reimburses up to a maximum rate by county/region, child age, provider type, and schedule (full vs. part day). If your provider charges more than the cap, you pay the difference plus your copay.
- See the current state rate chart: Maximum Reimbursement Rates for Child Care (effective Aug. 1, 2024) (official DES rate sheet). (des.az.gov)
- Rates vary widely—check the chart for your provider’s county and age group to understand what DES will cover.
Reality check
- The waiting list is real. Release is prioritized for households at ≤100% FPL first, then in 10‑point FPL brackets up to 165%. You must respond to a release notice within 10 days. DES Child Care overview & FAQs. (des.az.gov)
- Even when approved, your copay and any amount above the state cap are your responsibility.
- Applications can take up to 30 days, and DES may ask for more proof. Missing a letter can push you to the back of the line. DES “How to Apply”. (des.az.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your provider if they accept DES and confirm their current rate vs. the DES cap so you know any out‑of‑pocket.
- If you’re waitlisted, get on the list now and keep your contact info updated within 5 business days of changes. Meanwhile, call CCR&R at 1‑800‑308‑9000 for lower‑cost options, sliding‑scale centers, or temporary care. CCR&R contact info. (azccrr.com)
- If you’re receiving or recently left Cash Assistance, ask about immediate eligibility pathways (Jobs referrals, TCC). DES overview. (des.az.gov)
Income Bands by Fee Level (Monthly amounts, 2025)
To help you spot your likely fee level, here are estimated monthly income breakpoints for common family sizes, calculated from the official 2025 FPL. Use this to estimate; DES will determine the final level from your application. Source for FPL: HHS/ASPE 2025 guidelines. (aspe.hhs.gov)
| Family Size | ≤85% FPL | ≤100% FPL | ≤135% FPL | ≤145% FPL | ≤155% FPL | ≤165% FPL (entrance cap) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | $1,498 | $1,763 | $2,379 | $2,557 | $2,732 | $2,908 |
| 3 | $1,888 | $2,221 | $2,997 | $3,220 | $3,442 | $3,664 |
| 4 | $2,277 | $2,679 | $3,618 | $3,886 | $4,153 | $4,421 |
| 5 | $2,667 | $3,138 | $4,237 | $4,548 | $4,863 | $5,178 |
| 6 | $3,056 | $3,596 | $4,854 | $5,214 | $5,575 | $5,933 |
Note: DES also applies an exit rule at 85% of SMI—a different measure than FPL—when you report changes or at redetermination. Arizona law: A.R.S. § 46‑803. (azleg.gov)
How to Apply (Step‑by‑Step)
Most important action first: submit your application online.
- Online (fastest): A‑to‑Z Arizona portal. Go to A‑to‑Z Arizona. (des.az.gov)
- Paper (only submit once): Download the initial application and take it or email/fax it to your local DES Child Care office. How to Apply—paper forms and office locations and Find a DES Child Care Office (official locator). (des.az.gov)
Application checklist (gather these first)
- Government photo ID for you.
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or qualified immigrant status for each child needing care.
- Proof of current work, school, or training (pay stubs, employment verification form, school schedule). If newly hired or self‑employed, use the DES verification forms listed on the application page.
- If applying under a “special circumstance” (homelessness, DV, unable/unavailable to care), bring the matching DES verification form.
- The name, address, and phone of a DES‑contracted provider you choose (or let DES enroll a qualifying relative as a Non‑Certified Relative Provider). How to Apply—document list and forms. (des.az.gov)
Timelines and what happens next
- DES has up to 30 days to process. You’ll complete an interview and may be asked for more proof.
- If you’re waitlisted, DES will send a notice showing your priority group and will notify you by mail if you’re released. You then have 10 days to respond and finish eligibility. DES “How to Apply” and Waiting List FAQs and DES Child Care overview. (des.az.gov)
Where to get help while applying
- Questions about the application? Call (602) 542‑4248 (DES Child Care) or (833) 947‑6396 (DES statewide programs). DES contacts and DES program numbers. (des.az.gov)
- Need help finding a provider that takes DES? Call CCR&R 1‑800‑308‑9000. CCR&R contact page. (azccrr.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If online is tough, go in person to your closest office (addresses listed on DES site) and ask for a Child Care Eligibility Specialist.
- If you can’t find a provider in your budget, ask CCR&R for lower‑cost options and ask your preferred provider if they accept DES or have sliding‑scale slots. CCR&R. (azccrr.com)
The Waiting List: How It Works and What to Expect
Arizona reinstated a waiting list on August 1, 2024. As funding increased for FY 2026, some families started receiving release notices effective August 1, 2025. Priorities are based on income bands (lowest income first) and the date you applied. DES Child Care overview and FAQs. (des.az.gov)
- Latest public count (DES site): 3,856 families and 6,449 children on the list as of July 25, 2025; DES updates weekly. DES “How to Apply”. (des.az.gov)
Waiting List Priority Table
| Priority order | Gross income bracket | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ≤100% FPL | First to be released when funds allow |
| Next | 101–110% FPL | Released in 10‑point steps as funding opens |
| … | 111–120%, 121–130%, 131–140%, 141–150%, 151–160%, up to 165% FPL | Same process in order |
| — | Exempt groups | Jobs Program, Cash Assistance (employment), Transitional Child Care, DCS/Tribal referrals not waitlisted |
Source: DES Child Care overview and Waiting List FAQs. (des.az.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask about pathways that bypass the list (Jobs, CA, TCC, DCS/Tribal referrals).
- Keep your contact info updated within 5 business days; if mail bounces, you can lose your place. DES guidance. (des.az.gov)
Picking a Provider (Fast)
- Use the state search tool to see licensed centers, group homes, and family homes that accept DES near you: Arizona Child Care Provider Search and get personalized help from CCR&R (1‑800‑308‑9000). (azccrr.com)
- If you want a relative to care for your child, DES can enroll a qualified Non‑Certified Relative Provider (NCRP). Ask your eligibility specialist for the NCRP packet or see DES forms (NCRP requirements are in the DES forms library). DES Documents Center—NCRP info listed. (des.az.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Call CCR&R and ask for providers with open DES slots, later hours, transportation, or infant/toddler openings. Provide your cross‑streets to speed it up. CCR&R contact page. (azccrr.com)
Real‑World Examples
- Mom A (Phoenix): earns 19/hour∗∗for∗∗30hrs/week∗∗.Grossmonthly≈∗∗19/hour** for **30 hrs/week**. Gross monthly ≈ **2,470. Family of 2. That’s around 140% FPL—likely Fee Level 4 with a 5/day∗∗copayperfulldayperchild.Finalout‑of‑pocket=∗∗5/day** copay per full day per child. Final out‑of‑pocket = **5/day plus any provider charge above the DES cap. See copay rule and rates sheet. (law.cornell.edu, des.az.gov)
- Mom B (Tucson): part‑time job 20 hrs/week at 15/hour∗∗.Grossmonthly≈∗∗15/hour**. Gross monthly ≈ **1,300. Family of 2. That’s under 85% FPL—Fee Level 1, $1/day copay full day. If she’s on the waiting list, she’s in the top priority group (≤100% FPL). (law.cornell.edu, des.az.gov)
- Mom C (Flagstaff): left Cash Assistance for work. She qualifies for Transitional Child Care (TCC) without income counting to enter, and no copay beyond the third child (per rule). Ask DES to code it as TCC. (law.cornell.edu)
Other Childcare Paths to Use Alongside DES
Head Start and Early Head Start (no cost)
- Who: pregnant women, infants, toddlers, and preschoolers; priority for families at/below 100% FPL. Children in foster care, families experiencing homelessness, and those receiving TANF/SSI are automatically eligible.
- How to apply: contact your local grantee. Find Head Start in Arizona + 2025 FPL reference (AZ Head Start Association). Phone 602‑338‑0449 (association). (azheadstart.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your provider if they participate in Head Start collaborations or have a Head Start classroom slot.
DCS / Foster or Kinship Child Care
- If DCS is involved or you’re a licensed foster/kinship provider, child care can be authorized through DCS or referred to DES without income counting.
- DCS Warm Line: 1‑877‑KIDS‑NEEDU (1‑877‑543‑7633). DCS Foster Care Support and Kinship resources. (dcs.az.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Talk to your DCS specialist about child care on the case plan or respite hours while your DES child care is pending.
Federal Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit (money back at tax time)
- Nonrefundable credit worth 20–35% of up to 3,000∗∗(onechild)or∗∗3,000** (one child) or **6,000 (two+). File IRS Form 2441 with your 1040. Rules have not returned to the 2021 temporary expansion. See IRS Pub. 503. IRS Publication 503 (Child and Dependent Care Expenses). (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask a tax preparer about a Dependent Care FSA for next year if your employer offers one (pre‑tax up to $5,000 can reduce your taxable income; see Pub. 503). (irs.gov)
Key Contacts and Links (Bookmark these)
| Need | Where to go |
|---|---|
| Apply/Renew online | A‑to‑Z Arizona portal |
| DES Child Care info page | DES Child Care overview |
| How to Apply (forms, timeline) | DES “How to Apply for Child Care Assistance” |
| Find a provider | Arizona Child Care Provider Search |
| CCR&R help finding care | 1‑800‑308‑9000; CCR&R contact |
| DES Child Care main line | (602) 542‑4248; Contact Child Care |
| DES statewide program numbers | (833) 947‑6396; DES program phone list |
| DES payment caps | Maximum Reimbursement Rates (DES rate sheet) |
| Income/copay fee schedule (FY 2025) | DES publishes the FY 2025 chart in its Document Center (CCA‑0229A‑FY25). Check the latest there. DES Document Center listing |
Citations for this table: DES overview and contacts, DES Document Center listings, DES rate sheet, CCR&R contact page. (des.az.gov, azccrr.com)
Office Finder and Phone Numbers (with local drop‑off sites)
- DES posts addresses for offices that accept applications and renewals statewide (you can still apply online). See the live list and “Local Office Email and Phone Numbers” on DES’s Contact page. DES Child Care office locations and local contacts. Main line: (602) 542‑4248. (des.az.gov)
- CCR&R also lists community locations across AZ if you want in‑person help searching for care (Tucson HQ and regional contacts). Start with 1‑800‑308‑9000. CCR&R contacts. (azccrr.com)
Costs You’ll See (and how to manage them)
- Your daily copay (see Fee Level table). This is small—1to1 to 10 per full day per child, depending on income. Arizona Admin Code App. A. (law.cornell.edu)
- The gap if your provider charges more than the state cap (check the DES rate sheet to estimate). DES rate sheet. (des.az.gov)
- Registration/supply fees: some providers charge these separately. Ask in writing what’s covered and what’s extra.
Tips:
- Get the provider’s rate sheet and compare it to DES caps before you enroll.
- Ask providers if they offer sliding‑scale discounts or accept Head Start partnerships.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting duplicate applications (paper + online). That can stall your case. DES asks you to submit only one. DES “How to Apply”. (des.az.gov)
- Missing DES mail or not replying by the deadline. Put a reminder to check mail weekly and voicemail daily during your 30‑day processing window. DES timeline. (des.az.gov)
- Forgetting to report changes (income, address, household) within 5 business days—that can cause overpayments or loss of benefits. DES Waiting List FAQs. (des.az.gov)
- Choosing a provider that isn’t DES‑approved yet. Verify in the state search or with your specialist before your first day to avoid paying full cost. AZ Child Care Provider Search. (des.az.gov)
Application Checklist (print and use)
- Valid photo ID for you.
- Child’s proof of U.S. citizenship or qualified immigration.
- Proof of work/school/training or special circumstance (match DES forms).
- Income proof (pay stubs, self‑employment records, or verification form).
- Provider you selected (name, address, phone).
See the official list and forms here: DES “How to Apply”. (des.az.gov)
Diverse Communities: Targeted Tips and Resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
- Ask CCR&R for providers with inclusive practices and anti‑bias training. CCR&R can filter by program features. 1‑800‑308‑9000. CCR&R contact. (azccrr.com)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with a child with disabilities
- Ask DES about eligibility under “unable/unavailable to care” (requires a verification form). DES “How to Apply” – verification forms. (des.az.gov)
- For developmental services and respite options: DES Division of Developmental Disabilities general info line (844) 770‑9500 (Option 1). DES program numbers. (des.az.gov)
- Veteran single mothers
- If you work for a federal agency (e.g., VA), ask HR about the Federal Child Care Subsidy program. Combine with DES if allowed; use whichever pays more.
- Immigrant/refugee single moms
- DES requires proof of U.S. citizenship or qualified status for children needing care. If you’re not sure what counts, ask your DES specialist before applying. DES “How to Apply” document list. (des.az.gov)
- Tribal citizens / on tribal lands
- If your Tribe operates its own CCDF child care assistance, you may apply through your Tribal program or through DES (if referred). The DES Child Care program recognizes DCS/Tribal Child Welfare referrals as not subject to the waiting list. DES Child Care overview (waiting list exceptions). (des.az.gov)
- Rural moms with limited access
- Consider the Non‑Certified Relative Provider option if you lack licensed care nearby. Ask DES to enroll your relative (must meet relationship and safety checks). See DES forms library references for NCRP. DES Document Center—NCRP info listed. (des.az.gov)
- Single fathers
- All rules are the same. Use this guide—and note that DES also helps teen dads enrolled in HS/GED programs. DES “How to Apply”. (des.az.gov)
- Language access
- DES provides language assistance and translated materials. Ask for an interpreter. DES Equal Opportunity and LEP info appears on DES pages. (des.az.gov)
Resources by Region (quick picks)
- Phoenix Metro (Maricopa): CCR&R Phoenix office support; call 1‑800‑308‑9000 and ask for Phoenix specialists. CCR&R contact. (azccrr.com)
- Tucson / Southern AZ: CCR&R HQ (Child & Family Resources), 520‑881‑8940, plus CCR&R Yuma support 928‑200‑2967. CCR&R contact page (regional numbers posted). (azccrr.com)
- Flagstaff / Northern AZ and rural counties: Call CCR&R 1‑800‑308‑9000 for local specialists in Kingman, Lake Havasu, and other sites. CCR&R contact list. (azccrr.com)
- DES Child Care Offices: find the closest office (addresses listed across Apache Junction, Avondale, Flagstaff, Kingman, Lakeside, Phoenix, Prescott Valley, Sierra Vista, Tucson, Yuma, etc.). DES Child Care “Find a Child Care Office” + locations. Main: (602) 542‑4248. (des.az.gov)
Reality Checks, Timelines, and Tips
- Timelines: up to 30 days for initial processing; renewals annually (12 months). Respond to any DES letter by the due date or your case can be closed. DES “How to Apply” timeline. (des.az.gov)
- Waiting list: if you’re ≤100% FPL, you are in the first release group when funding opens; keep your phone and address current. DES overview. (des.az.gov)
- Choosing providers: compare your provider’s rate to the DES cap so you’re not surprised by a gap bill. DES rate sheet. (des.az.gov)
Frequently Asked Questions (Arizona‑specific)
- What’s the maximum income to qualify?
Most families must be at or below 165% FPL at application (see monthly chart above). Assistance ends if you later exceed 85% of SMI. A.R.S. § 46‑803; HHS FPL 2025 and HHS/ASPE FPL. (azleg.gov, aspe.hhs.gov) - How long does approval take?
Up to 30 days after DES receives your info and interview. DES “How to Apply”. (des.az.gov) - Is there a waiting list?
Yes. DES started a waiting list on Aug. 1, 2024; some releases began Aug. 1, 2025 for certain income bands. As of July 25, 2025: 3,856 families, 6,449 children waiting. DES pages and counts and program overview. - Do my kids have to be U.S. citizens?
DES requires proof of U.S. citizenship or qualified immigrant status for the children needing care. DES “How to Apply”. - What will I pay out‑of‑pocket?
At minimum, the daily copay: 1–1–10 full day per child depending on income. If your provider charges above DES’s cap, you pay the difference. AZ Admin. Code fee schedule; DES rate sheet and DES rates. - Can I use a family member to watch my child?
Yes, through the Non‑Certified Relative Provider (NCRP) option. Ask your DES specialist for the packet. DES Document Center—NCRP info listed. - I just left Cash Assistance—do I get help?
Yes, Transitional Child Care can cover care as you work, without being waitlisted; special copay rules apply (no copay beyond the third child). AZ Admin. Code Appendix A notes. - How do I find a DES‑approved provider near me?
Search the state database or call CCR&R. Arizona Child Care Provider Search and 1‑800‑308‑9000. - Can school or training count?
Yes. School/training count for eligibility; teen parents in HS/GED/ESOL also qualify. DES also allows a work requirement waiver if you’re already receiving full‑time care and enroll full‑time in education/training (submit proof). DES “How to Apply”. - Can I get help if DCS is involved or I’m a foster/kinship caregiver?
Yes. DCS/Tribal child welfare referrals are not waitlisted and do not consider income. Call the Warm Line 1‑877‑543‑7633 for help. DES overview (exemptions) and DCS Foster Care & Kinship pages.
Local Organizations and Support
- Arizona Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R)
- Statewide referral and education; 1‑800‑308‑9000; Mon–Fri 7 a.m.–6 p.m. CCR&R contact and hours.
- DES Child Care Contacts and Offices
- Main line (602) 542‑4248. Find local office addresses and local office phone/email lists. DES “Contact Child Care”.
- Head Start/Early Head Start
- Find your local grantee and apply. Arizona Head Start Association.
Tables You Can Use Quickly
Table: What to Do First (by situation)
| Your situation | First action | Backup plan |
|---|---|---|
| Working parent, under 165% FPL | Apply online in A‑to‑Z and pick a DES‑approved provider | Call CCR&R for more provider options (1‑800‑308‑9000) |
| Waitlisted | Keep info updated, watch mail for release; respond within 10 days | Ask if you qualify for Jobs/CA/TCC/DCS exceptions |
| Recently left Cash Assistance | Ask DES to code TCC; choose a DES‑approved provider | If provider full, ask CCR&R for immediate openings |
| Living in shelter or DV situation | Apply and have shelter complete verification | Ask DES about “unable/unavailable” pathway and NCRP |
| Foster/Kinship caregiver | Ask DCS about child care or referral to DES | Use 1‑877‑KIDS‑NEEDU Warm Line |
Sources: DES overview, How to Apply, DCS pages.
Table: DES Copay and Fee Levels (recap)
| Fee Level | Income band | Copay (full day) | Copay (part day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| L1 | ≤85% FPL | $1.00 | $0.50 |
| L2 | 85–100% FPL | $2.00 | $1.00 |
| L3 | 100–135% FPL | $3.00 | $1.50 |
| L4 | 135–145% FPL | $5.00 | $2.50 |
| L5 | 145–155% FPL | $7.00 | $3.50 |
| L6 | 155–165% FPL | $10.00 | $5.00 |
Source: Arizona Admin. Code, Appendix A.
Table: Timeline at a Glance
| Step | Typical timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apply (online/paper) | Same day | Online fastest |
| Interview + verifications | Within 30 days | Respond to DES letters fast |
| Authorization sent to provider | After approval | Benefits go directly to provider |
| Renewal (redetermination) | Every 12 months | Report changes within 5 business days |
Sources: DES How to Apply, DES overview.
Table: Who Skips the Waiting List
| Category | Why |
|---|---|
| Jobs Program participants (with referral) | Required for participation |
| Cash Assistance recipients (work or Grant Diversion) | Tied to TANF participation |
| Transitional Child Care (left Cash Assistance) | Work support |
| DCS or Tribal Child Welfare referrals | Child safety/permanency |
Source: DES Waiting List FAQs.
Table: Taxes and Pay‑Back Options
| Tool | Amount | When |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Child & Dependent Care Credit | Up to 3,000∗∗(1child)or∗∗3,000** (1 child) or **6,000 (2+) expenses; credit is 20–35% | Claim at tax time (Form 2441) |
| Dependent Care FSA (employer) | Up to $5,000 pre‑tax | Enroll during open enrollment |
Source: IRS Publication 503.
“What if…” (Plan B options by roadblock)
- If you can’t get off the waitlist soon: Head Start/Early Head Start slots are free if you qualify; ask CCR&R to locate programs with openings near you. AZ Head Start Association; CCR&R and CCR&R contact.
- If your provider doesn’t take DES: Ask if they’ll enroll as a DES provider or pick a different provider from the state search; consider a relative via NCRP. Provider Search and DES NCRP references.
- If you can’t cover the “gap” above DES’s cap: Compare providers’ rates to the DES cap and choose within the cap to reduce out‑of‑pocket. DES rate chart.
Why this guide covers gaps other sites miss
We included:
- The exact 2025 income numbers and fee levels tied to FPL, plus daily copays set in Arizona rule.
- Current waitlist reality (counts and release policy as of July–August 2025).
- Direct phone numbers, office links, and the fastest application route.
- Realistic timelines, common errors, and Plan B options for when you hit a wall.
All numbers and claims above are from Arizona DES, Arizona statutes/rules, HHS, DCS, IRS, or established nonprofit associations; each claim is cited right where you need it.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Arizona Department of Human Services (Arizona Department of Economic Security for child care), USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
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.
Disclaimer
Program rules, income limits, copay levels, reimbursement caps, waitlist status, and forms can change at any time. Always confirm details directly with the Arizona Department of Economic Security, your local DES Child Care office, or your DCS/Tribal program before you make decisions. Links in this guide go to official or established nonprofit pages; check the date on the source page for the most current information.
🏛️More Arizona Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Arizona
- 📋 Assistance Programs
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- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
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- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
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- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
