Five Things Arizona Parents Need to Know About New Child Care Subsidies
3-minute read
Here are five things all Arizona families should know about the state’s new child care subsidies initiative. Read on to learn about eligibility and how to apply.
Big news for Arizona families! The state is investing $45 million in one-time funding to help more families access no- or low-cost child care. Here’s what you need to know to take advantage of this opportunity:

1. What changed?
Arizona is putting $45 million toward clearing the child care subsidy waitlist, helping more families get care for their little ones over the next year.
2. Who’s eligible?
Families earning up to 100% of the Federal Poverty Level who’ve been on the waitlist since August 2024. Eligible families will get an invitation from the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) to start the verification process. Not on the list yet? Keep applying—there’s still a chance to qualify.
3. What age children are covered?
This funding supports care for kids from birth through age 12—including some after-school programs.
4. How much can families save?
Depending on your situation, child care costs could be fully or mostly covered—making quality care more accessible than ever.
5. How can families apply?
Visit the Arizona Department of Economic Security here for details and next steps.
KinderCare has a subsidy team dedicated to helping Arizona families navigate this process, because every child deserves access to high-quality early childhood education.