CalWORKs Child Care
California Department of Social Services
Voucher payments to a child-care provider you choose
Help paying for child care for current or former CalWORKs recipients who are working or in approved activities.
What you could receive
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.
Who may qualify
- Child care is for an eligible child.
Location / service area
Statewide in California
Important requirements
Purchase timing requirement is unclear. Confirm with the program administrator.
Timing / preapproval
Preapproval required
Last verified: Sep 6, 2026 · Confidence: High
Official sources
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.