FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: How do I qualify for subsidized day care?

A: Subsidy is granted based on two factors, income eligibility and service need.
At the time of the initial application, families’ incomes cannot exceed 50% of the state median income.

Q: What is the “service need”?

A: Service need is the reason for using child care. The service need is defined as the amount of time that neither parent is available to care for the child because they are:

1. Beginning or continuing paid employment
2. Seeking paid employment
3. Participating in education or training (with the exception of graduate school)
4. Incapacitated
5. Custodial relatives (aunts, uncles, and grandparents) age 65 or over who receive retirement income (private and/or social security)

Q: How soon can I enroll my child?

A: Children are enrolled based upon their position on the Massachusetts Department of Education and Care’s Wait List.

Q: How do I get on the Wait List?

A: Parents must complete an application for enrollment either by downloading the application from this website and mailing or bringing it to Early Childhood Centers or by completing an application at Early Childhood Centers. All requested information must be provided to determine eligibility.