OKLAHOMA CITY (Sept. 25, 2026) - Oklahoma Human Services is asking media and community partners to help families know about an updated effective date for previously announced State Median Income (SMI) eligibility changes to the Child Care Subsidy program.
To give families, child care providers and system administrators more time to prepare, the changes previously scheduled for October 1, 2026, will now take effect February 1, 2027.
Families currently receiving Child Care Subsidy do not need to take any action right now. The eligibility changes themselves are unchanged.
Beginning February 1, 2027:
- Entry eligibility will be set at 55% of State Median Income, consistent with pre-pandemic guidelines and federal Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) priorities.
- Continued eligibility at renewal for families already enrolled will be supported up to 70% of State Median Income. This graduated approach is designed to support families as their household incomes grow while in the program and help provide stability and continuity of care.
Their current eligibility and copayment will remain in place through their next renewal, as long as they continue to meet program guidelines.
Oklahoma Human Services is committed to a stable, predictable Child Care Subsidy program that families and providers can count on. We will continue giving families and providers clear information and adequate notice as the February 1 effective date approaches.
We appreciate Oklahoma’s media and community partners helping us make sure families receive clear, accurate information.
Please help us share:
- The new effective date is February 1, 2027.
- No action is needed from families right now.
- Current eligibility and copayments remain in place through the next renewal, subject to program guidelines.
- Oklahoma Human Services will continue sharing information before the February 1 effective date.
- Updates will be available at OKDHS.org.
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