Best Beginnings Scholarship

The Best Beginnings Scholarship (BBS) program helps Montana families afford quality child care, allowing parents to participate more fully in the workforce and focus on their children(s) well-being. 

Parents & Families

Get Help Paying for Child Care

How does it work?

Families make a co-payment based on income, using a sliding fee scale.

How do I apply?

Applying is easy!


Who is eligible?

Families earning less than 185% of the Federal Poverty Level with children in licensed care, including centers, family homes, and Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) care are eligible. Income and co-payments are determined by the Child Care Sliding Fee Scale. Co-payments are paid directly to your child care provider.

Parents must be participating in eligible activities:

  • Two-parent families working at least 120 hours per month.
  • Single-parent families working at least 60 hours per month.
  • Single parent or two-parent families in which all of the parents attend school/training full time do not have to meet a work requirement.
  • Single parent or two-parent families in which one or more of the parents attend school/training part time shall meet a work requirement that accounts for the education/training.
  • Teen parents must be attending high school or a high school equivalency program.
  • Child care assistance authorization is based on the child's need for care.


Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Eligible while participating in their Family Investment Agreement. Contact your Child Care Resource Agency.

Tribal Families

Dually eligible for Tribal CCDF Block Grant and Montana Child Care Scholarship.

Child Support

Non-TANF households must cooperate with the Child Support Enforcement Division or have an approved reason not to.

Child Care Providers

Join a Caring Community of Licensed Providers

Why become a licensed provider?

By becoming licensed with the state of Montana, you can accept the Best Beginnings subsidy and welcome children receiving the Scholarship into your care.

Benefits:

  • Community of peers dedicated to supporting families and fostering healthy child development. 
  • Eligibility to receive subsidy payments. Check out the BBS reimbursement rates to see how much you can earn.
  • Access to professional development opportunities and other incentives.

Applying is simple and the work rewarding.

The application process to become a licensed provider and participate in the BBS program is straightforward. Make a meaningful impact in your community and join us in supporting Montana families by becoming a licensed provider that accepts BBS subsidies. Apply online here, or visit our licensing page to learn more.

What's the commitment?

BBS ensures high standards for licensed child care providers. Providers commit to health and safety standards. 

Payment

Families and providers can make online overpayments via the Business and Fiscal Services Division’s Online Portal.