Payments and Financial Support

You have several options for financial support in your role as a caregiver. Learn about payment options based on your caregiver licensing status.

Unlicensed caregivers only

Financial support for rent, utilities, gas, and groceries

DCYF may provide unlicensed caregivers financial support for rent, utilities, gas, or groceries. This support is only available short-term to help you get started. Once you become licensed, you’re no longer eligible for this support.

Ask your child’s caseworker for help covering these costs.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

TANF is a federal program administered by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). It provides cash assistance and services to low-income families.

As a caregiver, you may be eligible for non-needy relative TANF regardless of your income status. Learn more about eligibility and how to get payments.

Unlicensed and licensed caregivers

Clothing vouchers

DCYF may provide clothing vouchers for your child. Ask your child’s caseworker about these vouchers.

Diapers

Many community-based organizations (CBOs) offer diapers for caregivers with babies. You may get up to 10 diapers at a time. Ask your caseworker for a list of CBOs offering diapers.

Mileage or transportation reimbursement

DCYF reimburses mileage or transportation costs for licensed and unlicensed caregivers. Learn more about eligibility and how to get payments.

Property damage and emergency medical care reimbursement

DYCF provides limited reimbursement for property damage and emergency medical care caused by a child. Learn more about eligibility and how to get payments.

Medical and dental coverage

If you are a caregiver for a state-dependent child, they will get medical and dental coverage through Apple Health. Apple Health is Washington’s Medicaid program.

Visit Apple Health to learn more.

Food and nutritional support

The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program offers healthy foods and nutritional support. If you have an infant or child under 5 years old, you may be eligible for WIC.

Visit the Washington State WIC page or call the WIC Cascades Support Line at 1-800-841-1410 to learn how to apply.

Licensed caregivers only

Foster care payments

As a licensed caregiver, you can get monthly foster care payments to reimburse you for food, clothing, shelter, and other caregiving expenses.

Learn more about eligibility and how to get payments.