North Carolina Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers: The Ultimate Real‑World Guide (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built for single moms in North Carolina who need straight answers on how to get help paying for child care, where to apply, what it costs, and what to do when there’s a waitlist.

We reviewed the current state rules and looked across state and county pages, plus real county waitlist notices and rate tables. You’ll find exact 2025 income limits, parent fee rules, timelines, and direct contacts—without fluff. Where county practices differ, we call it out.

Jump to: Quick Help Box • Cheat Sheet • Subsidized Child Care (vouchers) • NC Pre‑K (free pre‑K for 4‑year‑olds) • Head Start/Early Head Start • Military Fee Assistance (MCCYN‑PLUS) • Find a licensed provider • County contacts • Application checklist • Common mistakes • FAQs • About/Disclaimer

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Quick Help Box

• Call your county to apply for child care subsidy (vouchers): use the state’s County Child Care Contacts Lookup (official lookup tool). For quick help in the biggest counties:
  • Wake County Human Services: 919-212-7000. Source: county HHS location page. (wake.gov)
  • Mecklenburg County DSS Customer Connection: 704-336-3000. Source: NC DHHS county DSS page. (ncdhhs.gov)
  • Durham County Child Care (waitlist/info): 919-560-8300. Source: Durham DSS child care page. (dconc.gov)
• Check if you meet 2025 income limits (see tables below). North Carolina uses:
  • Initial eligibility up to 200% FPL for ages 0–5 and for any child with special needs; 133% FPL for ages 6–12 without special needs; and ongoing eligibility up to 85% of State Median Income (SMI). Official 2025 chart effective July 1, 2025. (policies.ncdhhs.gov)
• Expect a decision within 30 days after you sign your application (if you’ve turned in documents). Eligibility lasts 12 months if you stay eligible. Report changes within 10 working days. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• If there’s a waitlist, get on it immediately and use backup options (Head Start/Early Head Start, NC Pre‑K, CCR&R referrals). Wake County, for example, has posted “waitlist only” at times due to funding. (wake.gov)
• Need help finding a provider while you apply? Call the statewide Child Care Resource & Referral line 888-600-1685 (free referrals), or Child Care Referral Central 855-327-5933 for central counties. (childcarerrnc.org, nurturingdurhamnc.org)
• Military families: Apply for fee assistance through MCCYN‑PLUS when base care isn’t available. Details and links here. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Subsidized Child Care Assistance (Child Care Vouchers)

Start here: Call your county contact to apply and ask about funding and waitlists. Use the official County Child Care Contacts Lookup for the right office. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

What it does: The state pays part of your monthly child care bill directly to an approved provider; you pay a parent fee (copay) if required. You can choose any participating licensed provider (center or family child care home). (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

Reality check: Many counties have waitlists at times. For example, Wake County announced “no new applications” with a waitlist form when funds were tight. Always ask for the waitlist in writing and keep calling monthly for status. (wake.gov)

Who qualifies (2025)

North Carolina sets income limits using federal poverty (FPL) and state median income (SMI):

• At application:
  • Ages 0–5 or any child with special needs: up to 200% FPL.
  • Ages 6–12 without special needs: up to 133% FPL.
• While on assistance (after you’re approved): you can stay eligible if your income stays at or below 85% SMI.

All limits below are monthly gross income and are effective July 1, 2025. (policies.ncdhhs.gov)

2025 Monthly Income Limits (NC Subsidized Child Care)

Source: NC DHHS (DCDEE) “Subsidized Child Care Assistance Program: FPL & SMI, Effective July 1, 2025.” (policies.ncdhhs.gov)

Notes:

• “Initial” income limit depends on your child’s age and needs (see bullets above).
• If your income later rises but stays under the 85% SMI amount for your family size, you may keep assistance until recertification. You must report changes within the required timeframe. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

How much will I pay each month?

• Most families pay 10% of gross monthly income as a parent fee, unless you’re involved with Child Protective Services (CPS), Child Welfare Services (CWS), or Foster Care—those cases are copay‑exempt. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

Examples (straight from the 10% rule):

• If your monthly gross income is $2,600\ast \ast ,yourcopayisabout\ast \ast$260.
• If your monthly gross income is $3,400\ast \ast ,yourcopayisabout\ast \ast$340.

Your provider’s rate and your county’s reimbursement “market rate” also matter; the state won’t pay above set county caps.

What do providers actually cost (and what will the state pay)?

NC sets county “market rates” by age group and star rating. These caps affect how much subsidy pays. Below are 2023 caps (most recent statewide market rate update) for infant care at 5‑star centers—use these to understand what’s typical; your county/age/star level may differ. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

Source: “Subsidized Child Care Market Rates for Child Care Centers – Effective 10/1/2023” (state PDF). Use the state’s Market Rates page for your county and age group, or try the Subsidy Rate Calculator. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

Tip: If your provider charges more than the county cap, you may be billed the difference on top of your 10% copay. Ask the provider up front.

How to apply (and what to expect)

• Call your county child care contact and ask how to apply, or visit the office. Use the County Contacts Lookup. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• The agency has 30 calendar days from the date you sign your application to decide, if you’ve turned in the documents they asked for. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• If approved, you’ll get a child care voucher for each eligible child. Your eligibility period is 12 months (if you remain eligible). Report required changes within 10 working days. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

What if there’s a waitlist? Ask to be added immediately and get confirmation (email or letter). Some counties (like Wake in recent cycles) post “waitlist only” when funds are tight. Don’t wait—apply to backup options below at the same time. (wake.gov)

Required documents (have these ready)

• Photo ID and proof of NC residency (lease, utility bill).
• Child’s birth certificate or official record (for age/relationship).
• Proof of income for the last 4–6 weeks (pay stubs, child support, self‑employment logs).
• If in school or training: class schedule and proof of enrollment.
• If job searching under Work First: verification from DSS of active job search.
• If special needs: documentation (IEP/IFSP, medical documentation).
• Provider info (name, license number, desired start date).

Your county may ask for more; ask the worker for a checklist when you call.

Real‑world example

• A single mother of two (ages 3 and 7) in Durham earns $3,100/month\ast \ast .Shequalifiesforinitialeligibilityforbothchildren(0–5uses200$310 (10%). The 3‑year‑old’s provider is a 5‑star center at $1,350\ast \ast /month(withincountycap),andthe7‑year‑old’safter‑schoolcareis\ast \ast$820/month. The state pays the difference up to the caps; she pays her $310 copay and any amount above caps (if applicable). (policies.ncdhhs.gov, ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

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

• Apply to NC Pre‑K if your child is 4 by August 31.
• Apply to Head Start/Early Head Start for ages birth to 5 (free, income‑based).
• Call CCR&R—for free, statewide referrals—888-600-1685 or 855-327-5933 (Central counties). They can help you find openings and lower‑cost options. (childcarerrnc.org, nurturingdurhamnc.org)

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NC Pre‑K (Free Pre‑K for 4‑Year‑Olds)

Act now: If your child turns 4 by August 31 of the school year, apply for NC Pre‑K early (many counties open applications in winter/spring). Start at the state’s NC Pre‑K page with local contacts and program details. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

• Eligibility: Age 4 by August 31 and family income at or below 75% of State Median Income (SMI). Up to 20% of slots can go to children above 75% SMI if they have certain risk factors (developmental disability, limited English, educational need, chronic health condition). Some military families qualify regardless of income. Placement isn’t guaranteed; waitlists are common. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

75% SMI (NC Pre‑K) — 2025 reference amounts

Wake County Smart Start provides a 2025 75% SMI guide using ACS data. These figures align with the state’s 75% SMI rule and are widely used by local NC Pre‑K administrators. (wakesmartstart.org)

Source: Wake County Smart Start “NC Pre‑K Income Eligibility,” effective Jan. 1, 2025. Your county uses the statewide 75% SMI rule; amounts are similar statewide. Check your local NC Pre‑K administrator for any updated county postings. (wakesmartstart.org)

How to apply:

• Contact your county’s NC Pre‑K administrator (listed on the state NC Pre‑K page) and submit your application with documents (proof of age, income, residency, and any risk factor documentation). (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

Timeline: Most placements are finalized late spring to summer for fall start. If you miss a window or are waitlisted, keep calling; seats can open mid‑year.

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

• Apply to Head Start or Early Head Start (free, income‑based) and ask about community‑based pre‑K slots.
• Ask your school district about Title I pre‑K (varies by district).
• Stay on the NC Pre‑K waitlist and check weekly.

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Head Start & Early Head Start

Act now: Use the federal Head Start locator to find programs and apply: How to Use the Head Start Locator (ECLKC/ACF). Head Start and Early Head Start are free, serve birth–5, and welcome children with disabilities. (eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov)

Eligibility basics:

• Household income generally at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), plus automatic eligibility for foster children, families experiencing homelessness, and those receiving TANF or SSI. Local programs may enroll some families over income as space allows. (Program capacity varies; waitlists are common.)

2025 FPL (48 contiguous states) — HHS poverty guidelines:

Source: U.S. HHS Poverty Guidelines (2025). (uscis.gov)

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

• Ask the program to put you on the waitlist.
• Re‑check with your county DSS for subsidy openings monthly.
• Ask CCR&R about other free/low‑cost preschool slots near you (community‑based, faith‑based, Ys).

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Military Families: Fee Assistance (MCCYN‑PLUS) in North Carolina

If base child care isn’t available, the MCCYN‑PLUS program (Department of Defense with Child Care Aware® of America) helps pay for quality community child care. In NC, providers must have a 3‑star or higher license. Start here: Military Families Child Care Assistance (NC DCDEE). Apply through your service branch; find details and parent FAQs on Child Care Aware. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

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

• Ask your installation’s Child & Youth Services office to document waitlist times.
• Request temporary care referrals through Child Care Aware and CCR&R (888-600-1685) while you wait. (childcarerrnc.org)

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Find a Licensed Child Care Provider

• Search the state database for licensed programs, inspection history, and star ratings: NC Child Care Provider Search. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Need live help finding openings that fit your schedule and budget?
  • Statewide CCR&R referrals: 888-600-1685 (free). (childcarerrnc.org)
  • Child Care Referral Central (Triangle and nearby counties): 855-327-5933. (nurturingdurhamnc.org)

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What You’ll Likely Pay vs. What Subsidy Covers (Examples)

Use these examples to estimate, then confirm with your county worker and provider.

Always ask your provider: “Do you accept subsidy? What will my out‑of‑pocket be, including any amount above the county rate cap?”

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Application Checklist

Use this before your intake appointment or phone interview. If you don’t have a document, tell the worker immediately and ask what alternative proof they’ll accept.

• Photo ID and proof of NC residency (lease, bill in your name).
• Your child’s birth certificate or official record.
• Last 4–6 weeks of income (pay stubs). If self‑employed, recent ledger or bank statements.
• Class schedule/enrollment letter if in school/training.
• Work schedule or job offer letter if recently hired.
• If job searching through Work First: documentation from DSS.
• Proof of child’s special needs (IEP/IFSP/medical letter), if applicable.
• Provider details (name, license number), and your needed schedule.
• If separated/divorced: custody papers if relevant to child’s schedule.

Pro tip: Take phone photos or scans of everything and store them in a single folder. If asked to upload later, you’re ready.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying late and missing funding cycles or pre‑K windows. Apply early and get on waitlists.
• Not reporting income or job changes within the required timeframe (the rule is 10 working days). Late reporting can cause overpayments you must repay. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• Picking a provider that charges well above the county cap without asking about “the difference” you may owe.
• Assuming approval for one child means automatic approval for all. Age rules differ (0–5 vs. 6–12). (policies.ncdhhs.gov)
• Forgetting to recertify at 12 months. Mark your calendar 60 days before your end date. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

What to do if you hit a snag:

• Call the county supervisor if your case is past 30 days and you’ve turned in all documents; ask for a status check. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• If funds are exhausted, ask for the official waitlist and request referrals from CCR&R (888-600-1685) to bridge care. (childcarerrnc.org)

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Diverse Communities: Targeted Tips and Resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: When you search providers, use the state database to review compliance history and star ratings. Ask providers directly about inclusive policies and family acceptance. If you encounter discrimination, document it and contact the county licensing office via the Child Care Contacts Lookup to report concerns. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a child with disabilities: Flag developmental or health needs in your application; it may affect eligibility and priority. Have IEP/IFSP or medical letters ready. Ask CCR&R to find programs experienced with your child’s needs (888-600-1685). (childcarerrnc.org)
• Veteran single mothers: If on active duty or a veteran family, check military fee assistance (MCCYN‑PLUS) and keep a copy of your base waitlist letter. Start at NC’s Military Families page and Child Care Aware’s MCCYN resources. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: Subsidy and NC Pre‑K look at your child’s eligibility and your income; ask your county if you’re unsure about document types they accept. If language is a barrier, request an interpreter when you call the county office; you can also dial 2‑1‑1 for help finding local services in your language. (nc211.org)
• Tribal citizens: Ask your county contact if there are tribal Head Start or child care resources near you (e.g., Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians programs in western NC). You can still apply for NC subsidy and federal Head Start, depending on residency and program rules. (headstartnc.org)
• Rural single moms: Transportation and provider openings can be tougher. Use CCR&R (statewide 888-600-1685) to locate family child care homes and smaller centers closer to you; ask about programs with flexible hours. (childcarerrnc.org)
• Single fathers: The same rules apply. You must be the child’s parent or legal guardian and meet the same eligibility criteria. Use the same county contacts and checklists. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• Language access: You can request interpretation from your county DSS when you call or visit. For general resource navigation in any language, dial 2‑1‑1 or 888-892-1162. (nc211.org)

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Resources by Region (Verified Local Contacts)

Use these to get started right away. For all other counties, use the County Child Care Contacts Lookup. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

For Wake County families, note the county has at times paused new applications and used a waitlist. Check current status here: Wake County Child Care Subsidy page. (wake.gov)

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NC Pre‑K, Head Start, Subsidy — Side‑by‑Side Summary

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Timelines You Can Count On

• Subsidy decision: 30 days from signed application if documents are in. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• Report changes within 10 working days (address, phone, job, income crossing 85% SMI). (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• Eligibility period: 12 months. Recertify on time to avoid lapses. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• NC Pre‑K: Apply early; placements are typically finalized late spring/summer for fall. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

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“If This Doesn’t Work” — Backup Plans That Often Help

• Try multiple programs at once: apply for Subsidy, NC Pre‑K (if age 4), and Head Start/Early Head Start.
• Use CCR&R to find temporary care options, family child care homes, or programs with scholarships near you (888-600-1685 or 855-327-5933). (childcarerrnc.org, nurturingdurhamnc.org)
• Check YMCA/YWCA, faith‑based centers, and employer benefits for sliding‑scale or emergency care (availability varies; ask CCR&R).

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State‑Specific FAQs

1. What income counts?
   Gross income before taxes: wages, tips, self‑employment, child support received. Your worker will tell you exactly what to provide; assume pay stubs for the last 4–6 weeks.
2. How much is the copay?
   Most families pay 10% of gross monthly income; CPS/CWS/foster families pay $0. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
3. Do I have to use a 5‑star provider?
   No. You can choose any participating licensed provider. But county caps pay more for higher‑star programs, and some programs (like MCCYN‑PLUS) require 3‑star or higher. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
4. How long will I wait?
   It depends on your county’s funding and priorities. Some counties maintain waitlists; Wake County has posted “waitlist only” at times. Apply now and ask to be added to the list. (wake.gov)
5. Can I work nights or weekends and still get help?
   Yes, if your work schedule creates a need for care and a provider can cover those hours. List your actual schedule in your application.
6. What if my income goes up?
   Tell your worker within 10 working days. You may stay eligible if your income remains at or below 85% SMI for your family size. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
7. How do I find safe programs fast?
   Use the state provider search to check licenses and history, then call CCR&R (888-600-1685) to match openings to your schedule and budget. (ncdhhs.gov, childcarerrnc.org)
8. My child has an IEP. Does that change anything?
   Yes—children with documented special needs are considered under the higher (0–5/200% FPL) initial limit and may get priority. Bring your IEP/IFSP or medical documentation. (policies.ncdhhs.gov)
9. I’m in school. Am I eligible?
   Yes, school or job training is a qualifying need if you meet the income rules. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
10. Who can I call if I’m stuck?

• Your county DSS child care contact (see lookup tool).
• DCDEE main: 919-814-6300 or in‑state 800-859-0829.
• CCR&R statewide: 888-600-1685. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

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Real‑World Examples (2025)

• Wake County, waitlist period: A single mom in Raleigh called 919-212-7000, learned intake was limited, and filled out the county’s waitlist form the same day. She also applied to NC Pre‑K for her 4‑year‑old and got CCR&R referrals for summer care while she waited. (wake.gov)
• Durham approval timeline: A single mom turned in all documents at application. DSS issued a decision within 30 days and her vouchers started the following month. She reported a new job within 10 working days and stayed eligible under 85% SMI. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)

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Application Steps (Short Version)

• Call your county contact today; ask about funding and how to apply.
• Gather documents (see checklist), including pay stubs and class/work schedules.
• Choose a participating provider or get CCR&R help while you wait for approval.
• Keep a log: when you applied, who you spoke with, and what you were told.
• If you’re waitlisted, apply to NC Pre‑K (if age 4) and Head Start/Early Head Start at the same time.

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About the Numbers (Why this guide is different)

Most web pages skip exact numbers. We include official 2025 limits, the 10% parent fee rule, current market rate caps, and the 30‑day/12‑month timelines—cited to NC DHHS/DCDEE and other official sources. We also include real county phone numbers and current 2025 documents.

Gaps we fixed:

• Exact 2025 income limits and which ages use 133% vs. 200% FPL. (policies.ncdhhs.gov)
• The parent fee is 10% (not 7% or a sliding cap)—and who is exempt. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• Honest timeline (decision in 30 days; 12‑month eligibility; report changes in 10 working days). (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• Real county rate caps to set expectations on what the state will actually pay. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• County contact numbers and a recent example of a county pausing intake. (wake.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from North Carolina Department of Human Services, 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.

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Disclaimer

Program rules, amounts, and county practices change. Benefit levels and market rates may shift after budget updates. Always confirm details with your county DSS, your NC Pre‑K administrator, or your Head Start program. Use the official links and phone numbers in this guide before making decisions.

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Sources and Official Links (selected)

• Child Care Subsidy: eligibility, parent fee, and “Do I Qualify?” table (effective 7/1/2025), NC DCDEE. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• 2025 FPL/SMI Chart (monthly limits for 133% FPL, 200% FPL, 85% SMI), effective 7/1/2025. (policies.ncdhhs.gov)
• Application timeline (30 days), 12‑month eligibility, reporting changes in 10 working days. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• Market rate caps (county rate tables, 10/1/2023). (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• NC Pre‑K eligibility (4 by Aug 31; ≤75% SMI; risk factor exceptions). (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• 75% SMI income figures (Wake Smart Start, effective 1/1/2025). (wakesmartstart.org)
• Head Start locator (official ACF/ECLKC). (eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov)
• 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines (100% FPL). (uscis.gov)
• Military fee assistance (MCCYN‑PLUS) in NC. (ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov)
• County contacts (Wake, Mecklenburg, Durham, Guilford). (wake.gov, ncdhhs.gov, dconc.gov, guilfordcountync.gov)
• CCR&R help lines and referrals. (childcarerrnc.org, nurturingdurhamnc.org)

If you spot anything that needs an update, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll verify and fix it fast.

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