Child care is one of the biggest bills a young family pays. Nevada has a program that pays part of it for families who qualify, and many Reno parents who could use it have never applied.
What it is
Nevada’s Child Care and Development Program pays a portion of child care costs for eligible families. How much it covers depends on your household income and family size. In northern Nevada, including Reno and Sparks, the program is run by The Children’s Cabinet.
Who qualifies
Two things decide it:
- An approved activity. Every adult in the household who is expected to take part has to be working, looking for work, going to school or job training, or doing another activity the program approves.
- Household income. There is an income limit based on family size. The limits change, and Nevada has raised them in recent years, so check the current numbers even if you were turned down before.
What to gather before you apply
Having these ready keeps your application from stalling. The program usually asks for:
- A photo ID for each adult in the household
- Proof of all household income for at least the last 30 days
- Proof of citizenship for each child you are applying for
- Proof that you live in Nevada
- Proof of relationship and custody for the children in your household
A missing document is the most common reason an application slows down.
How to apply
- Pick a provider that accepts the subsidy. Your child care has to be with a provider the state has approved. Ask before you apply. (Little Learners accepts it.)
- Apply. You can apply online through the state’s Access Nevada system, or through The Children’s Cabinet in Reno.
- Wait for the decision. Applications are handled in the order they come in, and you get a notice once a decision is made.
- Tell your provider. Once you are approved, let your center know so billing is set up the right way.
Where to get help
- The Children’s Cabinet: childrenscabinet.org, (775) 856-6200, 1090 S. Rock Blvd, Reno
- Nevada Division of Social Services, child care for parents: dss.nv.gov
Rules and income limits change, so treat the program’s own pages as the final word.
Other ways to pay less
The subsidy is not the only help. Federal tax credits, employer child care benefits and sibling discounts can add up too. Our tuition help page lists them.
Have questions about using a subsidy at Little Learners? Call us at (775) 786-8155. We are happy to walk you through it.