Child Care Subsidy

The University of Michigan offers the Child Care Subsidy to students to assist with the cost of child care of their young, dependent children. To align with the university's plans for a public-health informed fall semester, in which students will pursue their education through in person, hybrid, and/or remote formats, the university has temporarily changed eligibility criteria for the Child Care Subsidy beginning fall term 2020.
During this temporary period, child care expenses from any child care provider will be eligible for reimbursement under the subsidy, regardless of the state, country, or agency of licensure. Previously, eligibility was limited to the State of Michigan. Other eligibility criteria for the Child Care Subsidy continue to be in effect.
Additionally, an amendment for the fall 2020 and winter 2021 terms now allows unlicensed care providers to qualify for the Child Care Subsidy. Additional details are listed below.
To be eligible for consideration for the child care subsidy, students must:
U-M will make an exception to employment criteria for a non-student spouse who cannot work due to a disability. Please note this on your application so your situation may be considered during review. You may be asked to document your spouse's employment or student status. Read an explanation of why the university requires spouses to be in school or employed.
Note: If you do not meet eligibility criteria for the Child Care Subsidy Program but believe you have an extenuating circumstance, please contact us and offer details.
a. The appropriate Child Care Subsidy Application (found in the "SUBSIDY APPLICATIONS AND RELATED FORMS" section below). If you received the subsidy for fall/winter terms and want it for spring/summer, you must submit a new application.
b. Copies of signed previous-year federal income tax returns (1040, 1040A, 1040EZ, 1040NR, 1040NR-EZ, or Form 8843) or a Non-Filing Statement (below) from you and your spouse. Submit the Non-Filing Statement if you/your spouse were not required to submit tax returns based on IRS income requirements.
c. International students only: Submit both the Child Care Subsidy Application and an International Student Financial Data Form. The International Student Financial Data Form requires you to submit tax return information.
Note: If you previously submitted any of these forms to apply for financial aid, do NOT submit them again.
Students are encouraged to apply by April 30 for the following fall. Notification will be sent to eligible applicants beginning July 1. This will allow you adequate time to plan and make your child care arrangements. Students who apply after April 30 may be denied funding if all funds have been committed to applicants who applied earlier.
Students are encouraged to apply by March 15. Notification will be sent to eligible applicants in April. This will allow you adequate time to plan and make your child care arrangements. Funding for spring and summer terms may be limited. Applicants will be funded on a first-come, first-served basis. Students who apply after March 15 may be denied funding if all funds have been committed to applicants who applied earlier.
The amount of Child Care Subsidy awarded to eligible applicants is based on applicants' financial need, the number of children they have enrolled in licensed child care facilities, their child care expenses, and available funding. Applicants will be notified in writing of their eligibility for the subsidy and the amount they will receive. The subsidy amount cannot exceed the cost of your licensed child care.
You must demonstrate financial need to be eligible for the Child Care Subsidy program. Financial need is calculated as follows:
Estimated Cost of Attendance
– Expected Family Contribution/Available Resources
= Demonstrated Financial Need
This estimated amount includes tuition, fees, an allowance for books and supplies, a reasonable allowance for living expenses, and child care expenses as reported on the Child Care Subsidy Application.
The Office of Financial Aid calculates your expected family contribution based on your Child Care Subsidy Application, your tax returns, and the FAFSA or International Student Financial Data Form. The calculation is based on such items as your earnings; checking, savings, cash, and money market accounts; investments and real estate holdings other than your family's primary residence; business equity; untaxed income; income from assistantships; and other financial aid you are receiving through your academic department and the Office of Financial Aid.
Funds are disbursed through the University Payroll System in the form of a check payable to you or, if you have authorized direct deposit, funds will be deposited to your bank account. For information about direct deposit, (see the Direct Deposit section from the Student Business page of Wolverine Access).
We will need a copy of your child care contract or other documents verifying your child care expenses and your provider's licensure prior to payment.