Vermont Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers: The 2025 Real‑World Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is written for single moms in Vermont who need fast, clear answers and direct links. It uses only official sources and includes exact dollar amounts, phone numbers, timelines, and practical next steps.

Quick Help Box

• Apply right now for Vermont’s Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP) online in the CDDIS Family Portal or through your local Community Child Care Support Agency. If approved, help can start from the date your fully completed application is received. Apply online (CDDIS Family Portal login guide). For local agency phone numbers by county, see the table below. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Check if your income qualifies. As of October 2024, households up to 575% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) can qualify. As of March 23, 2025, the income guidelines were updated to the new 2025 FPL. See the income table below. (dcf.vermont.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)
• Vermont now charges no weekly family share (co‑pay) at or below 175% FPL. Above that, the weekly family share ranges up to a maximum that the State publishes; details below. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Know the State’s maximum weekly payment to providers (“state rates”). Example: center‑based full‑time infant care is $471/week\ast \ast ;registeredfamilychildcarefull‑timeinfantcareis\ast \ast$387/week. Full rate tables are below. (outside.vermont.gov)
• Have a 3- or 4‑year‑old? Vermont Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) covers 10 hours/week for 35 weeks. The statewide tuition paid to prequalified programs is $3,982 for the 2025–26 school year. You can stack UPK with CCFAP. (education.vermont.gov)
• Need to talk to someone now? Call the Child Care Consumer Line at 1‑800‑649‑2642 (option 3) for licensing questions or concerns. For help finding child care or applying for CCFAP, call your county’s Community Child Care Support Agency (numbers below). (dcf.vermont.gov)

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What changed in 2024–2025 (and why it matters)

• Income eligibility expanded to up to 575% FPL (final increase under Act 76), dramatically widening who qualifies. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Families at or below 175% FPL have no weekly family share (no co‑pay). (dcf.vermont.gov)
• You can apply online via the CDDIS Family Portal (not just by paper). (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Vermont increased state payment rates and moved to a simpler structure. See “State Rates” below for exact weekly amounts. (outside.vermont.gov)
• Eligibility guidelines were updated to the 2025 FPL starting March 23, 2025; some families saw lower family shares after the update. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• For 3‑ and 4‑year‑olds, UPK continues to cover 10 hours/week for 35 weeks; the 2025–26 statewide tuition rate is $3,982. (education.vermont.gov)

Reality check:

• CCFAP pays the state rate minus your weekly family share. If your provider charges more than the state rate, you may owe the difference. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Providers’ annual tuition increases are capped at 5.85% from July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026, but rates still vary by program and slot availability is tight in some areas. Plan for waitlists. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Who qualifies for Vermont’s Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP)

Start here: Apply now if you meet both the income test and a “service need” (work, training, job search, child’s special needs, protective services), live in VT, and have less than $1 million in countable assets. If eligible, assistance can begin the day your fully completed application is received by the local agency. Apply online or through your local Community Child Care Support Agency. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Eligibility at a glance

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your income is just above a threshold, ask an eligibility specialist to review deductions and family size rules carefully. If still ineligible, consider UPK (for 3–5), Head Start/Early Head Start (free for eligible families), and Vermont 2‑1‑1 to find local scholarships. Links are below. (education.vermont.gov, headstart.gov, women.vermont.gov)

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2025 income limits (using 575% and the $0‑family‑share line at 175%)

Vermont adopted 575% FPL as the maximum income to qualify, and it set the $0 family share at 175% FPL. The table below converts the official 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines for the 48 states into those two CCFAP lines. (aspe.hhs.gov, dcf.vermont.gov)

Notes:

• The State updates family share schedules when FPL updates roll out (most recently effective March 23, 2025). If your income is near a bracket edge, ask for a recheck after each update. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Use the State’s prescreen tool in Bright Futures (and/or call your local agency) to get a quick read before applying. (brightfutures.dcf.state.vt.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re just over 575% FPL but have a large out‑of‑pocket cost, ask your provider about scholarships, sliding fee scales, or multi‑child discounts, and check the UPK and Head Start sections below. (education.vermont.gov, headstart.gov)

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How to apply (fastest path first)

• Apply online through the CDDIS Family Portal. If you gave an email on a prior application, use that email to access your portal account. Multi‑factor authentication is required. The State recommends using Chrome on a laptop/tablet (mobile is not recommended yet). (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Or submit a paper application to your local Community Child Care Support Agency (addresses and phone numbers in the county table below). Help is free. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• After you submit a fully completed application with documents, your local agency determines eligibility. If approved, benefits may start from the date the agency received your fully completed application. You’ll get your Statement of Eligibility in the portal (or by mail if you didn’t provide an email). (dcf.vermont.gov)

Required documents (what to gather now)

• Proof of Vermont residence (lease, utility bill, letter with your name and address)
• Photo ID (you and, if needed, for the other parent in the household)
• Proof of gross income (recent pay stubs for the past 4 weeks, benefit award letters, child support received, self‑employment records)
• Proof of service need (work schedule, job offer, school/enrollment schedule, training plan)
• Child identity/age (birth certificate, hospital record or official records)
• Provider information (name, program type, hours needed)
• Any specialized care documents (IFSP/IEP, CIS referral) if your child has special needs

Tip: If you’re getting Reach Up, ask your case manager if they can authorize child care for you—this can streamline things. (dcf.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your eligibility specialist to review what’s missing; incomplete applications delay your start date. If you hit tech issues, submit a CDDIS Help Desk ticket (link on the CCFAP pages). If you need interim coverage, ask your provider about temporary payment plans and verify your place on their waitlist. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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How much will Vermont pay? 2024–2025 CCFAP state rates

Vermont pays up to the state rate minus your weekly family share. If your program charges more than the state rate, you may owe the difference. The tables below are the current state rates (effective June 30, 2024). (outside.vermont.gov)

Center‑based child care and preschool programs

Registered family child care homes

Notes:

• “Weekly family share” is set by the State based on income and family size. It’s $0 at or below 175% FPL, and ranges up to a capped amount at higher incomes. The State confirms the range and updates with each FPL change. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• The State pays the program the state rate minus your family share. If the program charges higher than the state rate, families may pay the difference. (dcf.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the state rate is lower than your program’s tuition, ask if the provider offers scholarships or accepts additional subsidy (UPK, Head Start). Consider switching to a provider at or near the state rate if the gap is unaffordable. See “Plan B options” below. (education.vermont.gov, headstart.gov)

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Real‑world cost examples (how the math works)

Example 1: Center‑based infant, full time

• Program tuition: $520/week
• State rate (center infant full time): $471/week
• Family share: $0 (income ≤175% FPL)
• State pays $471\ast \ast ;youowethedifference\ast \ast$49/week. (outside.vermont.gov, dcf.vermont.gov)

Example 2: Family child care toddler, full time

• Program tuition: $360/week
• State rate (family child care toddler full time): $364/week
• Family share: $60/week (illustrative; actual share set by State)
• State pays the lesser of program tuition or state rate minus share: $300\ast \ast ;youpay\ast \ast$60. If tuition is below the state rate, the State doesn’t “top off.” (outside.vermont.gov)

Example 3: Preschooler at a private program with UPK + CCFAP

• UPK covers 10 hours/week for 35 weeks at the statewide district‑paid tuition ($3,982 in 2025–26).
• For hours beyond UPK, CCFAP can help pay based on your income and family share. Coordinate with your provider and school district so invoices show both credits. (education.vermont.gov)

Note: Weekly family share amounts are determined by the State’s income guideline schedule. The State publishes the range and updates with each FPL change; ask your eligibility specialist to show your exact weekly share on your Statement of Eligibility. (dcf.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the numbers still don’t work, consider different program types (family child care vs. center), different schedules, or providers with slots near the state rate. Ask your county referral specialist to identify openings that minimize out‑of‑pocket costs. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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Universal Prekindergarten (UPK): Free 10 hours/week for ages 3–5

Most important action: Call your school district right away to enroll for the next school year and secure a UPK slot. Vermont districts must offer 10 hours/week for 35 weeks for eligible children in public school or approved private programs. The statewide tuition paid to a prequalified program is $3,982 for 2025–26. You can stack UPK with CCFAP to cover additional hours. (education.vermont.gov)

Key points:

• UPK is available for 3‑, 4‑, and eligible 5‑year‑olds not yet in kindergarten. (education.vermont.gov)
• If you choose a community (private) prequalified program, enroll both with the program and your district so the district sends tuition to the program. (education.vermont.gov)
• UPK covers only 10 hours/35 weeks; you must cover or use CCFAP for extra hours. (education.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your district or local programs have waitlists, widen your search radius using the State’s prequalified program list and Bright Futures. Ask your local referral specialist for alternate openings. (education.vermont.gov, dcf.vermont.gov)

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Specialized Child Care and Children’s Integrated Services (CIS): If your family is in crisis or your child has special needs

Start here: If your child has an IFSP/IEP, is under protective supervision, or your family is experiencing significant stress, ask to be connected to a Specialized Child Care Coordinator. Specialized providers receive added supports, and CCFAP can include a 10% add‑on for specialized child care needs. (dcf.vermont.gov)

• Specialized Child Care serves families with open DCF cases (protective services), children with special health needs, and families under significant stress—and it sits within CIS. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Contact your county’s Specialized Child Care Coordinator (phone list on the State site) to learn about eligibility and to find a specialized provider. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• CIS can coordinate developmental screenings, home visiting, early intervention, and help you find quality care that fits your child’s needs. (dcf.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t reach a coordinator, call the Child Care Consumer Line at 1‑800‑649‑2642 (option 3) to get routed or ask your Community Child Care Support Agency for a warm handoff. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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Where to apply locally: Community Child Care Support Agencies (by county)

These agencies determine CCFAP eligibility, help you apply, and assist with finding available care.

Source: Vermont DCF Community Child Care Support Agencies. (dcf.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t get through, leave a voicemail and also email if possible. Meanwhile, submit the online application so your filing date is protected. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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Application Checklist (print or screenshot)

• Your driver’s license or other photo ID
• Proof of Vermont address (lease, utility, official mail)
• Income proof for the last 4 weeks (pay stubs, self‑employment records, benefit letters)
• Proof of service need (work schedule, school/training verification)
• Child’s birth record or other identity/age proof
• Provider information (name, program type, hours)
• If applicable: IFSP/IEP, CIS or Specialized Child Care documents

Submit documents by uploading them in the CDDIS Parent Portal or delivering them to your local agency. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting to apply. Your benefits can start from the date your fully completed application is received. Submitting sooner can save weeks of uncovered costs. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Assuming you won’t qualify because your income is “too high.” With eligibility up to 575% FPL, many middle‑income families qualify. Use the State’s prescreen tool or call your agency. (dcf.vermont.gov, brightfutures.dcf.state.vt.us)
• Not coordinating UPK with CCFAP. If you have a 3‑ or 4‑year‑old, UPK covers 10 hours/week for 35 weeks and can be stacked with CCFAP—don’t leave this money on the table. (education.vermont.gov)
• Missing the provider rate vs. state rate difference. If your provider charges above the state rate, you’ll owe the gap plus any family share. Ask for the program’s tuition and compare to the state rate. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Not documenting job search, training, or variable work hours. If your situation changes week to week, tell your eligibility specialist so your schedule is authorized correctly. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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Realistic timelines

• There isn’t a single published processing time statewide. Your start date can be the date your local agency receives a fully completed application with documents. In practice, timing varies by county and volume. Ask your eligibility specialist for their current turn‑around time. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• State system updates (for example, after FPL changes like on March 23, 2025) can generate new Statements of Eligibility automatically; watch your portal messages. (dcf.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re nearing a tuition due date, tell your provider you’ve applied and ask for a short grace period while your eligibility is determined. If you have a denial, ask for the reason in writing and appeal or resubmit with missing documents.

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Local organizations and practical Plan B options

• Vermont 2‑1‑1 (United Ways of Vermont). Call 2‑1‑1 for referrals to child care, emergency funds, and local support. Text your ZIP to 898211 M‑F 8am–10pm. (women.vermont.gov)
• Head Start and Early Head Start. Free early learning and family supports for eligible families. Use the locator or contact Vermont Head Start Association for your county. (headstart.gov, vermontheadstart.org)
• Children’s Integrated Services (CIS). If you’re pregnant/postpartum or your child may need developmental support, CIS can connect you to services quickly. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Child Care Consumer Line. For licensing concerns, background on a program’s compliance history, or to make a complaint: 1‑800‑649‑2642 (option 3). (dcf.vermont.gov)

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Diverse Communities: Tailored notes and resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: If you need providers with inclusive practices, ask your county referral specialist to filter for programs with staff training in inclusive care and to check any nondiscrimination policies on file. If discrimination is suspected in accessing services, contact DCF’s concerns line at (802) 241‑0925 or email AHS.DCFConsumerConcerns@vermont.gov. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a child with disabilities: Ask about CIS and Specialized Child Care. Programs serving children with special needs can receive added supports, and families may receive enhanced assistance. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Call 2‑1‑1 and explain your veteran status; ask for programs with veteran‑specific supports or caregiver respite options in your area. (women.vermont.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: As of June 30, 2024, child citizenship status is not a factor in CCFAP eligibility. Your local agency can help with language access and document questions. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Tribal citizens and Native families: Ask your referral specialist about providers with culturally responsive programming and coordinate UPK + CCFAP. For Head Start/Early Head Start, use the State association contacts for county‑specific options. (vermontheadstart.org)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Your referral specialist can search a wider radius and help you consider family child care homes, non‑standard hours, or transportation‑friendly options. Vermont also caps provider tuition increases at 5.85% for 7/1/2025–6/30/2026, which may help with predictability during the year. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Single fathers: CCFAP and UPK are gender‑neutral. All guidance in this guide applies equally to single fathers. (dcf.vermont.gov, education.vermont.gov)
• Language access: When you call your local agency or the Consumer Line (1‑800‑649‑2642), ask for an interpreter. Vermont 2‑1‑1 also has language translation available. (women.vermont.gov, dcf.vermont.gov)

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Fast ways to find and vet child care

• Search the Bright Futures database for licensed programs, STARS quality level, and any recent violations. Then call the Consumer Line to verify details. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Ask your referral specialist for openings that match your schedule and budget—and that keep your out‑of‑pocket as low as possible given the state rate. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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Vermont Child Care Consumer Protection and Safety

• Check a program’s license status, STARS level, and any enforcement actions—then decide. For questions or to file a complaint: 1‑800‑649‑2642 (option 3) or email ahs.dcfcddchildcarelicensing@vermont.gov. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• To report suspected abuse or neglect, call 1‑800‑649‑5285 right away (24/7). If immediate danger, call 911 first. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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Quick tables you can use today

Table: Program path by child’s age and need

Table: Where to get help immediately

Table: Your costs vs. State rates (shortcut)

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FAQs (Vermont‑specific)

1. Am I eligible if I’m job searching?
   Yes. Job search is a recognized “service need.” Ask your eligibility specialist to document your search period correctly. (dcf.vermont.gov)
2. Does CCFAP cover relative or informal care?
   Payments go to licensed/registered or approved relative providers. Ask your agency about the process for an approved relative arrangement. (dcf.vermont.gov)
3. Can I apply if I’m self‑employed or working variable hours?
   Yes. Provide recent income records and a typical schedule. The agency can authorize hours consistent with your work pattern. (dcf.vermont.gov)
4. How is my weekly family share decided?
   By State rules based on your income and family size. It is $0 at ≤175% FPL; above that it increases on a sliding scale up to a cap. You’ll see your exact share on your Statement of Eligibility. (dcf.vermont.gov)
5. How fast can help start?
   If eligible, assistance may start from the date the local agency received your fully completed application with documents. Timing varies by county volume. (dcf.vermont.gov)
6. What if my provider charges more than the state rate?
   The State pays up to the state rate minus your family share. You may owe any difference above the state rate. Ask your provider about scholarships or a lower‑cost schedule. (dcf.vermont.gov)
7. Can I combine UPK with CCFAP?
   Yes. UPK covers 10 hours/week for 35 weeks; CCFAP can help pay for additional hours. Coordinate with your district and provider. (education.vermont.gov)
8. My income changed mid‑year. What should I do?
   Report changes to your eligibility specialist. Your family share can be recalculated after FPL updates (most recently March 23, 2025). (dcf.vermont.gov)
9. Do immigration/citizenship rules apply to my child?
   For CCFAP, child citizenship status stopped being a factor on June 30, 2024. To confirm how this applies to your household, contact your local agency. (dcf.vermont.gov)
10. Who do I call if I have a concern about a program?
    The Child Care Consumer Line at 1‑800‑649‑2642 (option 3) can answer questions and take formal complaints. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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“What others miss” and how this guide helps you

• Exact 2025 income numbers (575% and 175% lines) converted from HHS tables, not vague “multiplier” language. (aspe.hhs.gov)
• The current state rate tables you can compare to real tuition. (outside.vermont.gov)
• Step‑by‑step application actions, with online option and county phone numbers. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Clear stacking of UPK + CCFAP with the exact 2025–26 UPK tuition rate. (education.vermont.gov)
• Specialized Child Care and CIS paths for families under stress or with special needs, with coordinator contacts. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Vermont 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, income limits, and payment rates change. Always confirm details with your local Community Child Care Support Agency or the Vermont Department for Children and Families. Links and phone numbers in this guide point to official sources; if a link or process changes, your local agency can provide the latest forms and steps. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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Sources (accessed August–September 2025)

• Vermont DCF — Child Care Financial Assistance overview and how to apply; eligibility, start dates, and local agency process. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• DCF CDD — Online application (CDDIS Family Portal) announcement and login guidance. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• DCF News/Blog — Income expansions to 400%/575% FPL and removal of citizenship status; 2025 FPL update timing; family share policy at ≤175% FPL. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• DCF — State Rates (effective June 30, 2024) PDF. (outside.vermont.gov)
• AOE — Families of Prekindergarten Students (10 hours for 35 weeks) and statewide UPK tuition rate for 2025–26. (education.vermont.gov)
• DCF — Community Child Care Support Agencies contact list (county phone numbers). (dcf.vermont.gov)
• DCF — Child Care Consumer Line (licensing/complaints). (dcf.vermont.gov)
• DCF — Children’s Integrated Services (CIS) and Specialized Child Care program pages. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• ASPE, U.S. HHS — Official 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines used to compute 175% and 575% thresholds. (aspe.hhs.gov)
• DCF — News item on provider tuition increase limit 5.85% for 7/1/2025–6/30/2026. (dcf.vermont.gov)

If you need help interpreting anything here, call your local agency (table above) or the Consumer Line at 1‑800‑649‑2642. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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