On the Alternative Payment page, click the link to “Apply Today”. You can also call us and we will mail you a form, or you can drop by one of our offices to pick one up. A case manager will review your application to determine your eligibility. You will receive a letter letting you know if you are eligible and what your ranking is. 

All of ICES’s services are free. There is no charge to apply and no charge for our services. 

However, depending on your income, you may be required to pay a portion of your child care costs, called a “Family Fee.” In addition, if you select a child care provider whose fees are higher than the limits set by the state, you will be responsible for the difference between the provider’s charges and what ICES can pay, referred to as “share of cost.’ We can help you understand these charges and help you find child care that fits your needs as well; contact us anytime for more information or assistance. Family Fees and ‘share of cost’ are to be paid directly to your child care provider.

For most families, initial eligibility for the Subsidized Child care Program is based on income and need. You must have a reason for needing child care such as working, attending school or a training program, or looking for work. In two parent households, both parents must have a need. Foster families, families who are receiving or have received cash aid within the past 2 years, and parents who are incapacitated may also be eligible for assistance. We are obligated to give priority to the lowest ranking families.

This depends on your ranking on the eligibility list. After submitting your application, you may be asked to provide supporting documentation of your income and childcare needs – this may include items such as birth certificates, employment verification, pay stubs, school schedules, or child support information. Your case manager will work with you to identify what information is needed and keep you informed on your eligibility status. We cannot begin enrollment until all of your documentation has been received, so often times, the speed of the enrollment process depends on you. Families who rank higher than most will have a longer wait, or may never get enrolled. 

We will keep be touch with you if/when we are able to enroll you. After you submit your initial application, we may request supporting documentation to prove the need and income your listed on your application. Once your information is verified, we will set an appointment to meet with you to complete the enrollment process and explain how the program works.

Make sure you keep us up to date on your most current phone number, email address, and mailing address so we can reach you when necessary.