Help Paying for Preschool in Vermont (2026)
Preschool is expensive, but Vermont families have three main ways to lower or eliminate the cost: Head Start, public pre-K, and a childcare subsidy. Here's who qualifies for each — then check your family in seconds.
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Head Start & Early Head Start
Free, federally funded preschool (Head Start for ages 3–5, Early Head Start under 3). It's for families at or below the federal poverty line — or who qualify on other factors. Income limits in Vermont (2026):
| Household size | Income at or below (100% FPL, 2026) |
|---|---|
| 3 | $27,320 |
| 4 | $33,000 |
| 5 | $38,680 |
| 6 | $44,360 |
You can also qualify regardless of income if your family is experiencing homelessness, your child is in foster care, or you receive SNAP, TANF, or SSI. Find a Head Start program in Vermont →
Public pre-K in Vermont
Vermont's public pre-K, Universal Prekindergarten (Act 166), is open to all age-eligible children regardless of income (age 3, 4, or 5 by September 1 and not in kindergarten; min. 10 hrs/week, 35 weeks) — free, though seats can be limited, so apply early. Official Vermont program info →
Childcare subsidy in Vermont
Separate from preschool programs, Vermont's childcare subsidy — Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP) — helps working families pay for care, for income up to families at or below 575% of the federal poverty level (lowest incomes free; higher incomes a partial benefit). Under Act 76, near-universal coverage up to 575% FPL. Apply or learn more →
See also: when your child can start school in Vermont · how to afford preschool · how much preschool costs.