The rising cost of childcare can be a significant concern for working families. Recognizing this challenge, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a valuable benefit to its employees: the Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP). This program is designed to provide financial assistance to eligible VA employees, helping to ease the burden of childcare expenses and support their work-life balance.
Understanding the VA Child Care Subsidy Program
Established under Public Law 107-67, enacted in 2001, the VA Child Care Subsidy Program allows the VA to use appropriated funds to assist federal employees with childcare costs. This initiative underscores the VA’s commitment to supporting its workforce by making quality childcare more affordable. The core function of the CCSP is to provide subsidies directly to licensed childcare providers, effectively reducing the out-of-pocket expenses for eligible VA employee parents. It’s important to note that subsidy payments are not given directly to VA employees but are instead channeled to the childcare providers. The Office of Management, Planning & Analysis (MP&A), within HRA/OSP, oversees the operational aspects of this crucial program.
Who is Eligible for the VA Child Care Subsidy Program?
The VA Child Care Subsidy Program is available to permanent, full-time VA employees who have been employed at the VA for a minimum of 60 calendar days. Eligibility extends to VA employees across the U.S. and its territories. To qualify, employees must also meet specific Total Family Income (TFI) requirements and utilize a qualified licensed childcare provider. As of the latest update, the maximum Total Family Income to be eligible for the program is $149,001.
How Much Financial Assistance Can You Receive?
The amount of childcare subsidy provided by the VA is determined by your Total Household Income. The program uses a tiered system to calculate the percentage of childcare costs covered. Here’s a breakdown of the subsidy levels based on income:
| Total Household Income | % of Total Child Care Cost Paid by VA |
|---|---|
| Under $34,999 | 45% |
| $35,000 – $49,999 | 40% |
| $50,000 – $59,999 | 35% |
| $60,000 – $79,999 | 30% |
| $80,000 – $149,000 | 25% |
| $149,001 and above | 0% |
| Maximum monthly subsidy per household: $416.66 |
This table clearly illustrates that the lower your Total Household Income, the higher the percentage of childcare costs the VA will subsidize. It’s also crucial to note that the maximum subsidy benefit is capped at $416.66 per month per household.
How to Apply for the VA Child Care Subsidy Program
If you are a VA employee interested in taking advantage of this valuable benefit, the application process is straightforward and entirely electronic. Paper applications are not accepted. To begin or learn more about the VA’s Child Care Subsidy Program, you should:
- Visit the VA Childcare Website: Access the VA intranet and navigate to the VA Childcare website. This is your primary resource for detailed information and the application portal.
- Contact Your Local HR Work Life Benefits Team: Your local Human Resources Work Life Benefits Team is an excellent resource for personalized assistance and guidance through the application process.
Required Documents for Application
To complete your application, you will need to gather and submit the following documents:
- VA Form 0730a, VA Child Care Subsidy Employee Application: This electronic form must be completed online via the CCRMS system.
- VA Form 0730b, Child Care Provider Information: This form needs to be completed by your chosen childcare provider. You can download the form and find more information about it on the VA Forms website.
- Copy of Provider’s State Child Care License: Ensure you have a copy of the childcare provider’s valid state license or regulatory documentation.
- Childcare Fee Schedule: Obtain a schedule of fees from your childcare provider, detailing the cost of daycare for each child.
- Copy of SF-50, Notice of Personnel Action: You can find your most recent SF-50 in your Official Personnel File (OPF).
- Copies of Last Two Earnings and Leave (E&L) Statements: Provide copies of your most recent two E&L statements.
- Signed Copies of Previous Year Federal Tax Return (IRS Form 1040): Include signed and dated copies of your previous year’s Federal tax return (IRS Form 1040). If married or sharing a household and filing separately, include your spouse’s or partner’s tax return as well.
- Copy of Most Recent Year W-2 Form(s): Provide a copy of your most recent W-2 form(s).
- Relevant Legal Documentation (if applicable): This may include copies of your Marriage License, Domestic Partner Registration, Civil Union Registration, or Divorce Decree (with a raised seal).
- Child’s Birth Certificate: Submit a copy of your child’s state Birth certificate with a raised seal or obtain HR Specialist verification if a copy cannot be provided due to state regulations. Updated birth certificates are required for any child name changes.
- Foster Care or Adoption Documentation (if applicable): If applicable, include copies of foster care and/or adoption documentation.
- Medical Certification for Disabled Children (ages 13-17): If you are applying for a subsidy for a disabled child between 13 and 17 years old, you will need to provide a Medical Certification, which requires annual updates.
Choosing a Qualified Childcare Provider
The VA Child Care Subsidy Program allows flexibility in choosing childcare. If a VA Child Care Center is not available in your local area, you can select any state-licensed and/or state-regulated childcare facility. This ensures that you have access to a wide range of quality childcare options while still benefiting from the subsidy program.
Take Advantage of the VA Child Care Subsidy Program
The VA Child Care Subsidy Program represents a significant benefit for eligible VA employees, offering crucial financial relief for childcare expenses. By understanding the program’s details, eligibility requirements, and application process, you can take the necessary steps to access this valuable resource and enhance your financial well-being and work-life balance. Don’t hesitate to explore the VA Childcare website or contact your HR Work Life Benefits Team to learn more and begin your application today.
