The State of New Mexico recognizes the profound and essential work of child care professionals especially now during this public health emergency, as they provide care for first responders, health care personnel, and other essential employees. In recognition of this effort, the State has developed an Essential Child Care Wage Incentive program for child care professionals who work in a registered or licensed child care facility during the public health emergency.

Child care professionals (full or part-time) who are currently working at registered or licensed child care facilities that have been serving health care professionals, first responders and other essential employees through the crisis are eligible to apply for the Essential Child Care Wage Incentive program.

Monthly payments will be available for the months of April, May and June 2020. Payment for April will be sent retroactively.

If you applied for the wage incentive in April, you do not need to complete a new application for May or June. You also do not need to provide a new W-9 and your proof of identification.

Please submit all required documents and the application by June 15th.

Licensed providers are required to provide the following employment verification.

1. A completed W9 – Please use the attached link.
2. Previous two pay stubs or an employer statement confirming employment
3. Monthly work schedule
4. Proof of Identification

Registered and licensed home providers are required to provide the following employment verification:

1. A completed W9 – Please use the attached link.
2. Proof of identification
3. Identification of Food Program Sponsor

For more information:
download the information PowerPoint
download the application introduction or descargue la introducción de la aplicación

All other questions please call NewMexicoKids Resource and Referral at: 1-800-691-9067