Vermont
New child care subsidies kick in for Vermont families
WATERBURY, Vt. (WCAX) – Vermont parents are getting a big boost to help them afford child care.
The state’s sweeping child care law last year expanded income criteria for families to qualify for financial assistance.
A family of four earning up to $124,800 can now qualify for assistance. About 500 families could be eligible for more benefits, which would mean they wouldn’t pay more than $250 a week for child care.
State leaders say it makes Vermont a nationwide leader for the most generous child care subsidy in the country. “It allows them to secure quality child care for their family to better balance work and family and financial needs. For those families, it’s a big deal,” said Janet McLaughlin with the Vermont Department for Children and Families.
Rates are increasing again in October for families of four making up to $179,000. It’s all funded by a 0.44% payroll tax which will go into effect July 1.
Families have to apply through an eligibility specialist in their community.
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