What is the Waiting List?
When there is not enough money available to help all families asking for child care aid, the county keeps a list of those waiting for help. The waiting list will show the date we received your questionnaire and your Priority Level.
You can ask to be added to the list if your gross income is below 47 % of the State Median Index.
Actual eligibility will not be decided until your name comes to the top of the list and you file an application. If your name is on the waiting list this does not guarantee eligibility or funding for child care.
Moving from another Minnesota County?
There is not a state-wide waiting list. If you are on a waiting list in one county and move to a new county, you do not have priority for a position on a waiting list in the new county.
If you are already receiving child care help in another county, and move, this is called Portability.
You can be put on the waiting list even if you are not living in Dakota County. You will have 60 days to move to Dakota County once your names come up on the list.
How do I Get on the Waiting List?
- You need to complete a questionnaire to get on the waiting list. You will need to give us personal information and your reason for needing child care. The reason for child care will help decide your Priority Level. This level is used to decide which clients will get help first.
- If you are not on MFIP, DWP or child care now, e-mail us at eeachildcare@co.dakota.mn.us to request a questionnaire. Include your name, full postal address with zip code, and a phone number where you can be reached if we have questions. Or
- You can call 651-554-5611 and ask for a child care questionnaire form.
- Complete the form and return it to our office. Your name will then be added to the waiting list.
- The Effective Date of the request is when the form is date-stamped as received in the Child Care office.
Already on MFIP, DWP or Child Care?
Contact your financial worker for an application.
How Long Do I Stay on the List?
- We cannot give you an exact length of time you will be on the waiting list. When funding becomes available, we will contact you.
- If you have been on the waiting list for 6 months and funding is NOT available, you will receive a form asking if you want to remain on the waiting list and verifying your gross income is within guidelines.
What Happens When Funds Become Available?
When funding is available, we will:ยท
- Mail you an application form when your name comes to the top of the waiting list by your Priority Levels.
- Send you information on how to apply for child care assistance and what information you need to bring with you to an interview in our office.