Silver State Times

The State Child Care and Development Program (CCDP) will revert to pre-pandemic eligibility, co-payments, and waitlist procedures starting October 1, 2024. This decision follows the complete use of federal and state COVID-19 relief funds.

“The increase in federal funds released during the pandemic allowed the subsidy program to be extended to families who would not have been eligible pre-COVID, which kept kids in quality child care programs so their caregivers could work or attend school,” said Karissa Machado, Agency Manager for the program. “The Division of Welfare and Supportive Services understands how important affordable, quality child care is, and we know these changes will impact Nevada’s working families.”

Income eligibility for child care subsidy assistance is determined by household size and annual income. Beginning October 1, new applicants will qualify if their income does not exceed 41% of the state median income (SMI), meaning a family of four earning up to $39,371 per year will be eligible for assistance.

Households submitting renewal applications will remain eligible if their income does not surpass 49% SMI. Thus, a family of four can continue receiving aid if their income is at or below $47,053 per year. Income and eligibility assessments will only occur when current certificates are due for renewal; all active certificates will be honored until their expiration date.

A flat-rate copay based on household size and income will also be introduced, ranging from $0 to $150 per month. Current program recipients will not undergo income re-evaluation until their existing certificate expires.

Returning to standard operations includes reinstating pre-pandemic eligibility and copay policies as well as maintaining a waitlist for new applicants when caseloads reach full capacity.

The CCDP plans to host a webinar on Tuesday, September 24 at 12 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., providing an opportunity for parents, providers, and Child Care Resource & Referral agencies to learn about these changes. More information can be found on the CCDP website.

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About the Child Care and Development Program (CCDP)

The Child Care and Development Program (CCDP), under the Division of Welfare and Supportive Services (DWSS), supports families by offering access to affordable quality child care services. The program helps eligible families with child care costs enabling parents to work, attend school or receive training for better job opportunities. CCDP collaborates with licensed child care providers ensuring safe environments that promote early childhood development and school readiness. For more details on eligibility criteria, application processes, and available resources visit //dwss.nv.gov/Childcare.