Last verified: October 2026
How does a Raleigh family apply for child care subsidy?
Wake County families download, sign and return the subsidy application to Wake County Social Services by drop box, scan, email to childcaresubsidy@wake.gov, or mail to 220 Swinburne Street, Raleigh, NC 27610. The county lists 919-212-9285 for questions.
The amount depends on need, income and family size, and most Wake families pay a percentage of their care costs that the county says is normally around 10% of gross monthly income.
Can subsidy cover a private school's preschool or aftercare in the Triangle?
Yes, when that program participates in the subsidy system. Subsidy is the piece that covers what the Opportunity Scholarship never will: infant and toddler care, the three-year-old year and before- and after-school hours.
Child Care Subsidy (Subsidized Child Care Assistance): what it is, and what it is not
| Child care subsidy is | Child care subsidy is not |
|---|---|
| Help paying for care while parents work or study | Tuition for a K-12 school day |
| Paid to providers in the subsidy program | Spendable at a provider outside the program |