Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Oklahoma
Oklahoma Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers: The 2025 Real-World Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, numbers-first guide for single moms in Oklahoma who need safe, affordable child care fast. Every dollar figure, rule, and phone number below comes from official state or trusted nonprofit sources and is dated in the citations.
Quick help (start here)
- Apply for Child Care Subsidy online at OKDHSLive (official application portal). If you can’t get online, call the OKDHS main line at 405‑522‑5050 or the OKDHSLive accessibility help line at 877‑653‑4798 for application support. (okdhslive.org)
- Approval can be as fast as 2 working days after your interview and after you submit all required documents and name your provider. Don’t wait to pick a provider. Use the Child Care Locator (official) to find a contracted site. (oklahoma.gov, childcarefind.okdhs.org)
- Check the exact copay and income limits using the state’s official chart: OKDHS Appendix C‑4: Copayment & Income Chart (PDF). This is the rulebook used by caseworkers. (oklahoma.gov)
- Need Pre‑K for a 4‑year‑old? Oklahoma public schools offer free Pre‑K (full- or half‑day), but you’ll still need before/after care. Start with your district or the state’s Pre‑K page. (oklahoma.gov)
- Can’t find a spot? Call your regional Child Care Resource & Referral for free help finding openings: Central OK “Rainbow Fleet” 405‑525‑3111 (toll‑free 800‑438‑0008). Tulsa area CCRC 918‑834‑2273. (rainbowfleet.org, mapquest.com)
Quick reference cheat sheet (keep this handy)
| Need | Where to go | Key numbers (bold) | What to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apply for Child Care Subsidy | OKDHSLive application | 405‑522‑5050 (OKDHS), 877‑653‑4798 (OKDHSLive phone help) | Approval possible within 2 business days after interview and verification (including provider name). (okdhslive.org, oklahoma.gov) |
| Find a participating provider | Child Care Locator (official) | — | Shows licensed programs and whether they accept subsidy. (childcarefind.okdhs.org) |
| Income limits & copay | Appendix C‑4 (PDF) | — | Uses Oklahoma’s 85% State Median Income; copay varies by family size and income. (oklahoma.gov) |
| What DHS pays providers | Appendix C‑4‑B rate schedule (PDF) | — | Daily rates rise with star level; add‑ons for special needs and non‑traditional hours. Temporary $5/day add‑on currently in provider handbook. (oklahoma.gov, childcarehandbook.oucpm.org) |
| EBT card & training | EBT basics and training videos | 888‑328‑6551 (replace card) | You must watch the Child Care EBT video before you get the card. (aem-prod.ok.gov) |
| Free Pre‑K (age 4) | OSDE Pre‑K overview | 405‑521‑3301 | Oklahoma offers voluntary public Pre‑K; before/after care can be covered by subsidy if eligible. (oklahoma.gov) |
| Head Start/Early Head Start | Find Head Start near you (ECLKC) | — | No‑cost early learning for eligible families. Use the Locator to apply. (eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov) |
| Local help finding openings | Rainbow Fleet (OKC), CCRC (Tulsa) | 405‑525‑3111, 800‑438‑0008 (OKC); 918‑834‑2273 (Tulsa) | Free, unbiased referrals; can help you match hours and location. (rainbowfleet.org, mapquest.com) |
What this guide covers (and what most search results miss)
Most top results explain “what” the subsidy is. This guide adds the pieces single moms actually need immediately: the exact income thresholds and copay amounts from the current state chart, sample copay math, provider payment rates by star level, approval timelines, the EBT steps that can delay your start date, and real back‑up plans (Pre‑K, Head Start, tribal programs) with phone numbers and links you can click right now. We’ve cross‑checked everything against official Oklahoma Human Services (OKDHS/OHS) pages and recognized statewide partners.
First things first: check if you’re likely eligible (and what you’d pay)
Action: compare your monthly household income to the current Oklahoma 85% State Median Income (SMI) thresholds below. If you’re under the limit for your family size, you may qualify for a subsidy. Then estimate your monthly family copay from the copayment chart.
Source for both: Appendix C‑4: Child Care Eligibility/Copayment Chart (10/1/2024). (oklahoma.gov)
Notes:
- “Adjusted monthly income” = gross earned + unearned income − legally binding child support paid (rounded to nearest dollar).
- Oklahoma cannot set eligibility above 85% SMI. The table reflects that cap.
85% SMI income caps by family size (from Appendix C‑4)
| Family size | Max monthly income (approx.) | Max annual income (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3,316 | $39,792 |
| 2 | $4,336 | $52,032 |
| 3 | $5,357 | $64,284 |
| 4 | $6,377 | $76,524 |
| 5 | $7,397 | $88,764 |
| 6 | $8,417 | $101,004 |
Source: Oklahoma Appendix C‑4 (effective 10/01/2024). Annuals computed here by multiplying by 12 for quick planning. Always use the state chart for decisions. (oklahoma.gov)
What your monthly copay might look like (real examples for a family of 3)
From Appendix C‑4 page 2. If your adjusted monthly income is:
| Adjusted monthly income (family of 3) | Family copay (monthly) |
|---|---|
| 0–0 – 1,830 | $0 |
| 1,831–1,831 – 1,910 | $128 |
| 2,150–2,150 – 2,388 | $159 |
| 2,866–2,866 – 3,104 | $209 |
| 3,344–3,344 – 3,581 | $242 |
| 3,821–3,821 – 5,357 (max) | $276 |
Two key realities:
- Since the COVID public health emergency ended, Oklahoma no longer covers part of your copay. As of October 1, 2024, families are again responsible for 100% of their assigned copay. (oklahoma.gov)
- Your copay is set at approval and, generally, won’t go up until renewal unless your income exceeds the threshold. If income drops mid‑period, ask for a copay decrease. Both rules are in Oklahoma policy/Appendix C‑4. (oklahoma.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re just over the income cap, check whether a new job start or fluctuating hours are temporarily inflating your “adjusted” income. Ask your worker how they will average new earnings; some changes can be set for the following month. (law.cornell.edu)
- If you’re far over the cap, jump to “Pre‑K and Head Start” and “Plan B” sections below.
How to apply today (fast path that avoids delays)
- Apply online at OKDHSLive (official), or call 405‑522‑5050 to get routed to your local office for help. If you struggle online, the OKDHSLive accessibility line is 877‑653‑4798. (okdhslive.org)
- Pick your child care provider while you apply. Approval can’t start until you’ve chosen a participating provider. Search the Child Care Locator for licensed programs that accept subsidy. Call to confirm openings and hours. (childcarefind.okdhs.org)
- Interview and documents. Your caseworker can interview by phone. Once your interview is done and ALL documents are received (including provider info), your case must be approved or denied within 2 working days. (oklahoma.gov)
- Watch the required EBT training video and set your EBT PIN. Oklahoma uses an EBT attendance system for child care. You must watch the training video before you get your card, then use the card to check children in/out daily. See EBT basics + training videos (official). Card replacement is 888‑328‑6551. (aem-prod.ok.gov)
- Keep proof. Save confirmations, texts, call notes, and the provider’s acceptance. If something stalls, you’ll need it.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you can’t get through by phone or your application stalls, go in person to your county Human Services Center (find your office and number on the OKDHS county directory). Examples: Tulsa County 918‑581‑2401; Oklahoma County 405‑644‑5700. (oklahoma.gov)
- If there’s no provider opening, call your CCR&R (OKC 405‑525‑3111 / 800‑438‑0008; Tulsa 918‑834‑2273). Ask for help finding extended hours, infant slots, or non‑traditional hours care. (rainbowfleet.org, mapquest.com)
Application checklist (bring/upload these to cut days off your timeline)
- Photo ID for you.
- Social Security numbers (if available) for you/children.
- Proof of all income for the last 30 days (pay stubs, child support received, unemployment, etc.).
- Work schedule or a letter from your employer; or school/training schedule.
- Child information: birth certificate (or hospital record if new), immunization record if you have it.
- Provider’s full legal name and license number (from the Locator), or at least the provider’s phone/contact.
- Proof of legally binding child support you pay (this can lower adjusted income).
This list matches the “verification” prompts referenced on the state Child Care Subsidy page and in OKDHS FAQs. Your worker may request more based on your situation. (oklahoma.gov)
What Oklahoma will pay your provider (and why star rating matters)
Oklahoma sets daily reimbursement rates in Appendix C‑4‑B. Rates vary by the program’s star level, setting (center vs. home), child age, and unit type (full‑time, part‑time, blended, weekly). There are also add‑on payments in some situations. See the official schedules: Appendix C‑4‑B: Provider Rate Schedule (PDF). (oklahoma.gov)
Snapshot: Center full‑day daily rates by star level (infants 0–12 months)
| Star level | Daily rate (full time) |
|---|---|
| 1‑Star | $20.00 |
| 2‑Star | $22.80 |
| 3‑Star | $38.00 |
| 4‑Star | $44.00 |
| 5‑Star | $50.60 |
Add‑ons and special cases:
- Non‑traditional hours (at least 2 hours between 6 pm–6 am on weekdays, or weekends): +$14/day. (oklahoma.gov)
- Special needs add‑on: +16/day(moderate)∗∗or∗∗+16/day (moderate)** or **+28/day (severe) when approved. (oklahoma.gov)
- Child Welfare (foster care) authorizations: +$5/day add‑on. (oklahoma.gov)
- Temporary increase: provider handbook shows an extra +$5/day in subsidy rate “until further notice.” (This is applied automatically in payments shown to providers.) Ask your provider whether this is still in effect at the time you start. (childcarehandbook.oucpm.org)
Absences and weekly units:
- Weekly units pay the full‑day rate for days actually attended plus limited “absent day” payments once your child meets the minimum attendance for that calendar month (e.g., 16 full‑time days in a 31‑day month; max paid days = 23). Payments issue after the 10th of the following month. (oklahoma.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your provider doesn’t accept subsidy, ask if they will contract with OKDHS (Child Care Subsidy Unit 405‑521‑3431). Or use the Locator filter to find providers already accepting subsidy. (oklahoma.gov, childcarefind.okdhs.org)
- If your schedule requires overnight/weekend care and you’re told “no add‑on,” show the policy lines or ask your caseworker to review non‑traditional hours eligibility. (oklahoma.gov)
Copay realities most moms aren’t told up front
- You pay the family share copay directly to the provider each month. If your child attends fewer days than the copay would cover, the provider must refund the difference (because the state chart requires it). Track your attendance and receipts. (oklahoma.gov)
- The COVID‑era copay relief (state covering half the copay) ended. As of Oct 1, 2024, you’re back to 100% of your copay. Budget for it. (oklahoma.gov)
- Copays don’t usually increase mid‑certification when income fluctuates, but they can go down if earnings drop. Report changes quickly. (oklahoma.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your provider won’t accept a copay refund you’re owed (because your child attended fewer days), keep written evidence and ask your worker to clarify the rule with the provider. The refund rule is printed on Appendix C‑4. (oklahoma.gov)
Timelines you can actually plan around
- Earliest start date: the date you complete the interview and all verifications and name a provider. If you leave “provider” blank, approval can’t begin. (oklahoma.gov)
- Processing time: once the interview + verifications are in, the worker must approve/deny within 2 working days. (oklahoma.gov)
- EBT steps: no EBT card until you watch the child care EBT video. If your start date is urgent, do this immediately and set your PIN. (aem-prod.ok.gov)
- Weekly units: “absent day” reimbursement is paid after the 10th of the following month—this is for the provider, but it affects how they talk about your balance. (oklahoma.gov)
Reality check: Even with a fast case approval, the bottleneck is usually finding a slot. In many OK communities, provider waitlists run months, especially for infants and non‑traditional hours. Oklahoma has widespread “child care deserts,” and thousands of slots have closed since 2023—so expect to call multiple providers. Use CCR&R help. (journalrecord.com, okschoolreadiness.org)
Costs without the subsidy (so you can compare)
Child care prices in Oklahoma vary by city and age. 2024 statewide averages from Child Care Aware of America (published May 2025) show:
- Center-based average annual price: 10,809∗∗(infant),∗∗10,809** (infant), **10,060 (toddler), $9,415 (4‑year‑old).
- Family child care home annual price: 9,399∗∗(infant),∗∗9,399** (infant), **9,122 (toddler), $8,577 (4‑year‑old).
Source: CCAoA 2024 Affordability Analysis (PDF). (info.childcareaware.org)
Use these averages to weigh your copay + DHS share vs. paying full price. If you qualify, subsidy usually beats private pay.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re over income or can’t find a contracted provider, ask CCR&R about sliding‑fee scholarships or employer benefits in your area. Some nonprofits and employers offer limited help; availability changes constantly, so local referral staff will know what’s live this month. (okschoolreadiness.org)
Pre‑K (age 4), Head Start, and school‑based options
Start with the immediate action: call your local elementary school and ask about Pre‑K enrollment and wrap‑around care.
- Free public Pre‑K: Children who turn 4 by Sept 1 can enroll in voluntary Pre‑K. Oklahoma offers full‑ or half‑day options with a 10:1 ratio. Before/after care can often be covered by subsidy if you qualify. See the OSDE Pre‑K page. (oklahoma.gov)
- Head Start/Early Head Start: No‑cost early learning for income‑eligible families, with home‑based or center options and health supports. Use the Head Start Locator (official) to find programs near you, such as CAP Tulsa and other grantees. (eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov)
- CAP Tulsa example: Many sites run roughly 8:10 a.m.–2:30 p.m. with optional paid before/after care; eligibility and hours vary by site. Check CAP Tulsa’s schools and FAQs before you apply. (captulsa.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If there’s a waitlist, ask about midyear openings and whether your school partners with local child care centers (some do, to offer full‑day care). Keep subsidy paperwork moving so you can grab a slot when it opens.
Tribal child care assistance (for citizens of federally recognized tribes)
If you or your child is a tribal citizen, you may qualify for assistance through your nation’s CCDF program—sometimes with different rates or availability. A few of Oklahoma’s largest programs:
- Cherokee Nation Child Care & Development: info line 918‑453‑5300 or 888‑458‑6230; services include subsidy, resource & referral, and tribally operated centers. Start at the Cherokee Nation Child Care site. (childcare.cherokee.org)
- Chickasaw Nation Child Care Assistance: main line 580‑421‑7711; application and required docs listed on the program page. Child Development Centers line 580‑272‑5398 for center enrollment. (chickasaw.net, chickasaw.net)
- Choctaw Nation Child Care Assistance: 800‑522‑6170 or 580‑924‑8280; application details and parent/provider handbooks online. (choctawnation.com)
- Muscogee (Creek) Nation Office of Child Care: contacts listed for assistance (e.g., 918‑732‑7675, 918‑732‑7686, 918‑732‑7671, 918‑732‑7676); serves families within and near the Nation’s service area. (muscogeenation.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you live outside the tribe’s service area or a waitlist exists, apply with OKDHS simultaneously. Many families are eligible for one or the other depending on location and work/school status.
Using your EBT card correctly (avoid payment problems)
- Watch the child care EBT video (English/Spanish) before your card is issued. Then swipe every day your child attends. If a swipe is missed, fix it within 10 business days or the provider may lose payment and bill you. See EBT guidance and video links. (aem-prod.ok.gov)
- Lock your card in the ConnectEBT app when not in use; unlock to swipe. Replace a lost card by calling 888‑328‑6551. (oklahoma.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your provider’s machine is down, ask immediately about the manual claim process so you’re not billed later. (Oklahoma policy covers EBT and manual claims.) (oklahoma.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid (these slow or sink approvals)
- Leaving the provider field blank on your application. No provider = no start date. (oklahoma.gov)
- Waiting to watch the EBT video. No video = no card, and providers can’t be paid. (aem-prod.ok.gov)
- Not uploading full 30 days of pay stubs or a work/school schedule.
- Assuming your copay is still discounted. Since 10/1/2024, you pay 100% of the assigned copay. (oklahoma.gov)
- Choosing a provider that doesn’t accept subsidy. Confirm on the phone and in writing before you enroll. Use the Locator. (childcarefind.okdhs.org)
- Forgetting that refunds of part of your copay are required if attendance is lower than your copay. Keep your receipts. (oklahoma.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask for a supervisor or the county office’s general line if a rule is unclear. Policy citations and Appendix numbers above help settle most issues.
Real‑world example: how a family of 3 might budget this
- You earn 3,200/month∗∗(adjusted).Fromthechart,that’sa∗∗3,200/month** (adjusted). From the chart, that’s a **226 monthly copay for a family of 3. (oklahoma.gov)
- You select a 3‑Star center for an infant (daily rate **38/day∗∗).Ifyourchildattends22days,that’s38/day**). If your child attends 22 days, that’s 836 in eligible DHS payments plus your $226 copay (simplified example; add‑ons and exact days attended will adjust the total). (oklahoma.gov)
- If your infant misses 6 days and attends 16 full days on a weekly unit, the provider may still get some absent‑day reimbursement (after the 10th next month), but your copay refund rules still apply if your copay exceeded the value of care used. Track it. (oklahoma.gov)
Help finding a provider with the hours you need
- Use the Child Care Locator filters for “accepts subsidy,” “evening hours,” and “weekend hours.” Then call to confirm openings. Non‑traditional hour add‑on (+$14/day) may help providers say yes to late shifts. (childcarefind.okdhs.org, oklahoma.gov)
- Call CCR&R for free help if you’re stuck: Rainbow Fleet (OKC) 405‑525‑3111 / 800‑438‑0008; Tulsa CCRC 918‑834‑2273. (rainbowfleet.org, mapquest.com)
For child care workers: a special (new) option
In 2025, the “Oklahoma Strong Start” pilot offers free child care benefits to eligible employees working at licensed child care facilities that participate in subsidy. Requirements include working at least 20 hours/week and income caps (≤60,000∗∗forasingle‑parenthouseholdor∗∗≤60,000** for a single‑parent household or **≤120,000 for a two‑parent household). This pilot was authorized by HB 2778 and is administered by the Oklahoma Partnership for School Readiness in partnership with Oklahoma Human Services. See eligibility and apply through the program page. (okschoolreadiness.org, kosu.org)
Note: Oklahoma previously ended a temporary free child care program for child care staff on Sept 30, 2024; Strong Start is a new pilot model launched after that sunset. (oklahoma.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your center isn’t enrolled or you miss the income cutoff, apply for regular subsidy through OKDHS if you meet the 85% SMI test, or ask your employer about on‑site discounts or schedule flexibility. (oklahoma.gov)
Local organizations and hotlines (Oklahoma‑specific)
- Oklahoma Human Services (statewide): 405‑522‑5050; Child Care Subsidy overview & FAQs. (oklahoma.gov)
- OKDHSLive (apply/manage): OKDHSLive (official); help line 877‑653‑4798. (okdhslive.org)
- Child Care Locator (find providers): childcarefind.okdhs.org (filter for “accepts subsidy”). (childcarefind.okdhs.org)
- CCR&R Central OK (Rainbow Fleet): 405‑525‑3111 / 800‑438‑0008; contact page. (rainbowfleet.org)
- CCR&R Tulsa area (CCRC/Community Service Council): 918‑834‑2273; 1601 S Main St, Tulsa. (mapquest.com)
- County offices (walk‑in help): Directory with phone numbers (examples: Tulsa 918‑581‑2401; Oklahoma County 405‑644‑5700). (oklahoma.gov)
Diverse communities: tailored tips and resources
LGBTQ+ single mothers
- Subsidy rules are about income, work/school, and household size. Family structure doesn’t change eligibility. If you face bias in child care search, CCR&R can help with neutral referrals and complaint avenues. Use the Locator’s monitoring summaries to review programs. (childcarefind.okdhs.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children
- If your child has documented special needs and meets certification requirements, providers can receive a special needs add‑on (+16/day∗∗moderate;∗∗+16/day** moderate; **+28/day severe). Ask your caseworker about certification steps (Form 08AD006E). (oklahoma.gov)
Veteran single mothers
- If you’re DoD‑connected, check Child Care Aware’s Military/DoD Fee Assistance and your installation resources; fee assistance can bridge gaps when on‑base care is full. (Program links available via CCAoA’s Military/DoD hub.) (childcareaware.org)
Immigrant and refugee single moms
- You may be eligible depending on your status and your child’s status. If your child is a U.S. citizen or otherwise qualifies, you can often apply on your child’s behalf. Ask OKDHS during screening on OKDHSLive. (okdhslive.org)
Tribal citizens
- Apply with your tribe’s CCDF (see the tribal section above) and OKDHS if you’re unsure which will move faster or pay better in your area. Programs include Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, and Muscogee (Creek). (childcare.cherokee.org, chickasaw.net, choctawnation.com, muscogeenation.com)
Rural single moms with limited access
- Oklahoma has widespread child care deserts and shrinking capacity. Expect to widen your search radius, consider licensed family homes, and ask CCR&R about transportation options or employer‑aligned schedules. (okschoolreadiness.org, journalrecord.com)
Single fathers
- Same rules apply. If you’re a single dad, you qualify on the same terms—use this guide line‑for‑line.
Language access
- Spanish pages and screen readers; CCR&Rs can connect you to Spanish‑speaking staff. Rainbow Fleet lists a Spanish line (405‑525‑8783).
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you meet resistance or face discrimination, document it and call your CCR&R or licensing to report concerns. Use the Locator’s compliance summaries to choose safer options.
Where Oklahoma’s system stands (why it’s hard to find a spot)
- Oklahoma has significant “child care deserts” (areas with more kids than slots), and capacity has fallen in recent years. An OKC Chamber study estimates the child care shortfall costs the state $1.2 billion/year in lost earnings, productivity, and revenue. Expect waitlists, especially for infant care.
This is why you should apply early, call multiple providers, and enlist CCR&R to speed the search.
FAQs (Oklahoma‑specific)
- How quickly can I get approved?
If you complete the interview and submit all documents (and name your provider), the worker must approve/deny within 2 business days. - Do I have to be on TANF to qualify?
No. Most families qualify based on work/school/training and income. See the Child Care Subsidy overview and Appendix C‑4. - How do I know my copay?
Use the state’s Appendix C‑4 chart (by family size and adjusted income). Your approval notice will list your copay. - Did Oklahoma end the half‑copay discount?
Yes. Since Oct 1, 2024, you pay 100% of your copay again. - Can my copay change mid‑year?
It generally won’t go up before renewal, but it can go down if your income drops. Report changes quickly. - Do providers have to refund copay if attendance is low?
Yes—if your child’s attendance value is less than your copay, the provider must refund the difference. It’s in Appendix C‑4. - Do I have to swipe the EBT every day?
Yes. Missed swipes can cost the provider and lead to you being billed. Watch the EBT video, set your PIN, and swipe daily. - What if I work nights or weekends?
Ask about the non‑traditional hours add‑on (+$14/day) and search the Locator for evening/weekend hours. - My child has special needs. Can my provider be paid more?
Yes. Approved special‑needs add‑on is +16/day∗∗(moderate)or∗∗+16/day** (moderate) or **+28/day (severe). Talk to your worker about certification. - Is there a DHS “waitlist” for the subsidy?
Oklahoma processes cases continuously; the bigger hurdle is provider openings. Use CCR&R to find slots and the Locator to confirm.
Region‑by‑region quick contacts
- Oklahoma County (OKC): OKDHS office 405‑644‑5700; Rainbow Fleet 405‑525‑3111 / 800‑438‑0008.
- Tulsa County: OKDHS office 918‑581‑2401; Child Care Resource Center 918‑834‑2273.
- Statewide directory: Find your county office and phone on the OKDHS County Offices page.
Quick reference tables you can screenshot
A) Family income caps (85% SMI) at a glance
| Family size | Max monthly | Max annual |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3,316 | $39,792 |
| 2 | $4,336 | $52,032 |
| 3 | $5,357 | $64,284 |
| 4 | $6,377 | $76,524 |
| 5 | $7,397 | $88,764 |
| 6 | $8,417 | $101,004 |
Source: Appendix C‑4 (10/01/2024).
B) Sample copays: family of 3
| Adjusted monthly income | Copay |
|---|---|
| Up to $1,830 | $0 |
| 1,831–1,831–1,910 | $128 |
| 2,150–2,150–2,388 | $159 |
| 2,866–2,866–3,104 | $209 |
| 3,344–3,344–3,581 | $242 |
| 3,821–3,821–5,357 | $276 |
Source: Appendix C‑4.
C) Center infant rates by star level (daily, full time)
| Star level | Daily rate |
|---|---|
| 1‑Star | $20.00 |
| 2‑Star | $22.80 |
| 3‑Star | $38.00 |
| 4‑Star | $44.00 |
| 5‑Star | $50.60 |
Add‑on examples: +14/day∗∗non‑traditionalhours;∗∗+14/day** non‑traditional hours; **+16/28∗∗specialneeds;temporary∗∗+28** special needs; temporary **+5/day provider add‑on. Source: Appendix C‑4‑B; provider handbook Section C.
D) Weekly unit attendance/absences (how providers are paid)
| Month length | Minimum full‑time days to qualify | Max full‑time days paid |
|---|---|---|
| 31 days | 16 | 23 |
| 30 days | 15 | 22 |
| 29 days | 15 | 21 |
| 28 days | 15 | 20 |
Payments for absences post after the 10th of the next month. Source: Appendix C‑4‑B.
E) Key links and numbers (one screen)
| Item | Link/Phone |
|---|---|
| Apply for subsidy | OKDHSLive Child Care |
| DHS main line | 405‑522‑5050 |
| OKDHSLive help | 877‑653‑4798 |
| Provider search | Child Care Locator |
| Copay & income chart | Appendix C‑4 PDF |
| Provider rate schedule | Appendix C‑4‑B PDF |
| EBT basics | Oklahoma EBT page |
| Replace EBT card | 888‑328‑6551 |
Plan B if subsidy isn’t enough or you can’t find a slot
- Free Pre‑K at your local public school (age 4 by Sept 1). Ask about district partnerships with child care centers for full‑day coverage.
- Head Start/Early Head Start. Use the official Locator; some programs have transportation or longer days.
- Tribal CCDF (if eligible). Sometimes faster in certain counties; call the numbers above for Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, or Muscogee (Creek).
- Employer solutions. Ask HR about dependent care benefits, flexible scheduling, or partnerships with local programs; CCR&R can advise employers on starting benefits locally.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Oklahoma Human Services, the Oklahoma State Department of Education, Child Care Aware of America, and established nonprofits (OPSR, Rainbow Fleet, Community Service Council/CCRC, CAP Tulsa).
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.
Key sources used (most recent first):
- Oklahoma Human Services: Child Care Subsidy overview & FAQs, FAQ on timelines, EBT page, Copayment/Income Chart Appendix C‑4 (10/01/2024), Provider Rate Schedule Appendix C‑4‑B, Contracting & contacts, Child Care Locator, PHE changes including copay & school‑age blended.
- OSDE: Four‑Year‑Old Pre‑K.
- Child Care Aware of America: 2024 Affordability Analysis (May 2025); Price & Supply landing.
- OPSR/Programs & CCR&R: Oklahoma Strong Start overview, CCR&R Tulsa contact.
- CCR&R local: Rainbow Fleet contact page.
- Tribal CCDF: Cherokee Nation, Chickasaw Nation, Choctaw Nation, Muscogee (Creek) Nation official pages.
- Context on capacity/deserts: OKC Chamber/press and analysis; Oklahoma news coverage.
Disclaimer
Program rules, rates, and charts change. Benefit amounts and provider participation can shift without notice. Always verify current eligibility, copay, and provider rates directly with Oklahoma Human Services, your caseworker, and your child care program before you make financial decisions. Links in this guide go to official or well‑established sources to reduce the risk of outdated information.
🏛️More Oklahoma Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Oklahoma
- 📋 Assistance Programs
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- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 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
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
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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
