How to Apply for Child Care Assistance

Families applying for DES child care assistance must meet certain eligibility criteria, and can apply for Child Care Assistance online and renew benefits through the A-to-Z portal. Paper applications must be submitted by email at [email protected] , fax, mail, or in person to your local DES office. You can save time and apply online using A-to-Z Arizona .

DES uses all resources available to verify information required to determine eligibility for child care assistance. You can help your application be processed faster by providing the following verifications with your application:

A completed application submitted online through the A-to-Z Arizona portal ; or a PDF (paper) Application for Child Care Assistance - English / Application for Child Care Assistance - Spanish

Proof of identity for the applicant

Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Qualified Noncitizen Status for all children needing care

Selected DES Contracted Child Care Provider

Verification of eligible activity documents (as applicable) may also be required:

Employment verification: most recent paycheck stub, or if newly hired, an Employment and Wage Verification Statement - English or Employment and Wage Verification Statement - Spanish ) or if self-employed, monthly self-employment records or previous year income tax return

Unable or unavailable to care: a completed Verification of Unable/Unavailable Status form

Residing in a shelter: a completed Verification of Shelter Case Plan

Teen parent: proof of school attendance

Additional verification documents (as applicable):

Proof of unearned income, such as Social Security Income (SSI), Child Support, loans, etc.

Proof of relationship or guardianship when the applicant is not the parent of the children needing care.

Effective July 1, 2022, individuals who are currently receiving full-time Child Care Assistance may submit documentation to waive work requirements while participating in a full-time education or employment training program. Eligible individuals can call 1-833-947-6396 to speak with a child care specialist for additional information.

An application for Child Care Assistance is not required for families who are referred from:

A DES Jobs Program

The Arizona Department of Child Safety or Tribal Child Welfare program