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(ii) cost estimation model or other alternative methodology;

(B) for a geographic area, rates are a percentile, up to the 75th percentile, of the rates of a representative sample of child care providers in that geographic area or in a similar one; and

(C) for a geographic area, rates may be adjusted by the department to

(i) expand capacity for child care;

(ii) address factors indicating a shortage of available care, such as care for infants, children with special needs, or children of parents who work during nontraditional hours; and

(iii) address market imperfections, including situations in which the market price is below the actual cost of care. (d) The state maximum child care assistance payment for a child during a month is equal to the full month rate plus the part month rate for the category of care, the type of facility, and the geographic area where care is provided, except as described in 7 AAC 41.035(c). If the child uses two types of facilities, payment is based on each facility type, not to exceed the rate for the licensed facility type. (e) A provider caring for a child with special needs who is younger than 13 years of age may qualify for a supplemental program rate as referenced in 7 AAC 41.060. (f) If child care is provided in the child’s own home, the program rate for in-home child care is the rate for an approved relative provider shown on the department’s schedule set under this section. (g) The total eligible cost of care for a family choosing an approved in-home child care caregiver is limited to a monthly maximum that is equal to two times the minimum hourly wage established under AS 23.10.065, multiplied by 170. (Eff. 6/23/2006, Register 178; am 8/31/2008, Register 187; am 3/1/2010, Register 193; am 1/5/2017, Register 221; am 9/11/2017, Register 223; am 10/31/2019, Register 232; am 1/1/2023, Register 245) Statutory Authority: Authority: AS 47.25.001 AS 47.25.041