Missouri Childcare Subsidies & Assistance Programs (2026)
Missouri's Child Care Subsidy Program helps working families in Kansas City, St. Louis, and across the state afford licensed childcare. Unusually, Missouri also offers a state tax credit worth up to 30% of childcare expenses paid.
Available Programs
| Program | Ages | Eligibility | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri Child Care Subsidy Program | 0–13 | Up to 138% FPL, working/in approved training | Subsidized childcare at licensed/license-exempt providers |
| Missouri Preschool Program | 3–4 | At-risk criteria (income + developmental) | Free part-day preschool at approved sites |
| Head Start / Early Head Start | 0–5 | Below 100% FPL | Free comprehensive early childhood program |
| TANF Child Care | 0–13 | TANF recipients | Childcare during work activities |
Income Eligibility (2026)
Missouri Child Care Subsidy covers families earning up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level:
| Family Size | 138% FPL Entry (approx.) | 150% FPL Exit (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $26,500 | $28,000 |
| 3 | $33,500 | $35,500 |
| 4 | $40,500 | $42,800 |
| 5 | $47,500 | $50,000 |
Missouri's income limits are among the more modest in the country. Families can remain enrolled until income reaches 150% FPL. Verify current thresholds at dss.mo.gov.
How to Apply
- Apply online: Visit mydss.mo.gov to submit an application through the Missouri Department of Social Services online portal.
- Call the helpline: Contact the Family Support Division at 1-855-373-4636 for assistance with your application.
- Visit a local office: Find your nearest Family Support Division office at dss.mo.gov for in-person help.
- Gather required documents: Proof of income (recent pay stubs or tax returns), work or school schedule documentation, child's birth certificate, and information about your chosen childcare provider.
- Choose an approved provider: The subsidy works at licensed childcare centers, licensed family homes, and some license-exempt providers. Confirm your provider is approved before applying.
Missouri State Tax Benefits
- Child Care Resource and Referral State Tax Credit: Missouri offers eligible working families a credit of up to 30% of childcare expenses paid during the year — one of the stronger state-level childcare tax credits in the nation. File using Missouri Form MO-TC.
- Federal Child and Dependent Care Credit: Missouri families can also claim the federal credit (20–35% of up to $6,000 in expenses) in addition to the state credit, providing meaningful combined savings.
- Dependent Care FSA: If your employer offers a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account, contributing up to $5,000 pre-tax reduces both federal and Missouri state taxable income.
See our Childcare Tax Benefits Guide for strategies combining state and federal savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Missouri's income limit for childcare subsidies?
Missouri Child Care Subsidy covers families earning up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level — roughly $33,500/year for a family of 3. Families can remain enrolled until income reaches 150% FPL (~$35,500 for a family of 3).
Does Missouri have a childcare tax credit?
Yes — and it's one of the better state childcare credits. Missouri's Child Care Resource and Referral State Tax Credit allows eligible families to claim up to 30% of childcare expenses paid. File using Form MO-TC with your Missouri income tax return.
How do I apply for childcare assistance in Missouri?
Apply online at mydss.mo.gov, by phone at 1-855-373-4636, or at your local Family Support Division office. Find offices at dss.mo.gov. You'll need proof of income, work or school documentation, child's birth certificate, and provider information.
Calculate Missouri Childcare Costs
See childcare cost estimates for your Missouri zip code, including subsidy eligibility and tax credit savings.
Calculate Your Costs