Help paying for child care in New Hampshire
The NH Child Care Scholarship pays part of the cost of care at programs that accept it. Your family’s share depends on your income and family size: nothing at or below the federal poverty level, $5 a week up to 138% of it, and 7% of your gross income above that. If a program charges more than the state’s standard weekly rate, it may also bill you the difference. In fall 2024, only about 7 in 100 eligible New Hampshire children were enrolled (UNH Carsey School), so it’s worth checking.
Who may qualify
Households earning up to these amounts may qualify (limits effective Jul 1, 2026). You’ll usually also need a reason for care, like working or going to school. The state makes the final decision.
| People in household | Yearly income up to | Monthly income up to |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $67,441 | $5,621 |
| 2 | $88,192 | $7,350 |
| 3 | $108,943 | $9,079 |
| 4 | $129,693 | $10,808 |
| 5 | $150,444 | $12,537 |
| 6 | $171,195 | $14,267 |
| 7 | $175,086 | $14,591 |
| 8 | $178,977 | $14,915 |
Source: NH DHHS Supervisory Release on child care income eligibility. These are 85% of New Hampshire’s state median income.
How to apply
- Apply online through NH EASY, the state’s application site for assistance programs. Choose child care assistance.
- Or print the state’s Application for Assistance (Form 800), fill it in, and mail it to your local DHHS District Office. See the state’s apply page.
- Choose a program that accepts the scholarship. 588 licensed programs in New Hampshire do.