CalWORKs Child Care
by California Department of Social Services
Help paying for child care for current or former CalWORKs recipients who are working or in approved activities.
What you can get
Voucher payments to a child-care provider you choose
Stages 1–3 help current or former CalWORKs families pay a provider of their choice. Care is generally for children through age 12 (or up to 21 with qualifying disabilities). There is no published consumer cash amount. Apply through the county welfare department. This is not CalWORKs cash aid itself.
Overview
Help paying for child care for current or former CalWORKs recipients who are working or in approved activities.
Who may qualify
- Child care is for an eligible child.
Location / service area
Statewide in California
How to apply
Use the official application or program page. Confirm current instructions with the administrator before you apply.
Preapproval required
Important things to know
Last verified: Sep 6, 2026 · Confidence: High
Official sources
Not sure what you qualify for?
Check your eligibility. We’ll compare your answers with published program rules.
Eligibility is based on published program information and the details you provide. Program rules, funding and availability can change. Always confirm eligibility with the official program administrator.