The Fair Start for Kids Act provides the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) with resources to stabilize child care, support providers in serving the children that come through their doors, and allows more families to access affordable, high-quality child care.
Effective Oct. 1, these changes positively effect eligibility for Working Connections Child Care (WCCC), a care subsidy program available from DCYF. The WCCC income eligibility is increased, resulting in lower copayments for many families.
Increased Income Eligibility
Effective Oct. 1, the maximum household income increases from 200% of the U.S. federal poverty level (FPL) to 60% of the State Median Income (SMI). The maximum monthly income limit by household size is listed in the chart below:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Income at Initial Application |
|---|---|
| 2 | $3,460 |
| 3 | $4,274 |
| 4 | $5,088 |
| 5 | $5,903 |
| 6 | $6,717 |
| 7 | $6,869 |
| 8 | $7,022 |
| 9 | $7,175 |
Beginning Sept. 16, families are encouraged to apply for child care to determine if they are eligible for WCCC under the new income standard. Families can apply online at Washington Connection or by calling the DCYF Child Care Contact Center at 1-844-626-8687.
Increased Income Eligibility Creates Lower Copayments for Many Families
Effective Oct. 1, the calculation used to determine copayments is changing. DCYF waived family copayments for July, August, and September. Copayments will resume on Oct. 1, using a new copay calculation table.
Many families will have a new copayment beginning Oct. 1 based on the copay calculation table. DCYF is currently reviewing family cases. Families and providers who have a copayment change will be notified of the new copayment in September.
Families with questions about their copayment may contact the DCYF Child Care Contact Center at 1-844-626-8687.
Providers with questions about a family’s copay may contact the DCYF Provider Help Line by emailing providerhelp@dcyf.wa.gov or calling 1-800-394-4571.