Can Veteran Benefits Be Used for Childcare in Wisconsin?

A person in military uniform reads "Ready, Set, Brush!" to kids in a classroom. Text: "Lowering the Burden of Childcare Costs for Military Families."

Transitioning out of the military while raising kids is no easy mission. Between adjusting to civilian life, searching for housing, and reentering the workforce, childcare is one of the biggest stress points for veteran families in Madison, WI and across Dane County.

So the question we hear all the time is:

“Can I use my veteran benefits to help pay for childcare?”

The answer? Yes—through a mix of smart strategies and support programs. While the VA itself doesn't directly pay for childcare, there are federal, state, and nonprofit options that can offer major help to those who served.

🎖️ No, the VA Doesn’t Directly Cover Childcare—But There’s Help

Let’s be upfront: there is no direct VA-funded childcare benefit. That said, if you're a veteran or transitioning service member, you still have access to several programs that make childcare more affordable—especially in Wisconsin.

🧸 Featured Resource: Child Care Aware® of America

Child Care Aware® of America is a national nonprofit that partners with the Department of Defense (DoD) and military support agencies to offer childcare assistance programs specifically for military and veteran families.

While the majority of their subsidies are geared toward active-duty, they also provide:

Referrals to licensed child care centers
Help finding affordable, quality care near you
State-specific tools and guidance (yes, including Wisconsin!)

🔍 You can search providers near Madison and Dane County with their zip code locator, and connect to child care resources that fit your budget and schedule.

✅ Veteran families in transition, those enrolled in VA education programs, or Guard/Reserve members may qualify for assistance or discounts via Child Care Aware and their partners.

🏫 Use Education Benefits Strategically

If you’re using the Post-9/11 GI Bill or Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E), you may be eligible for a Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA)—even while attending school.

That monthly stipend? It’s often used by veterans or their spouses to offset childcare costs so they can attend class, train, or job hunt.

💡 Spouses using transferred GI Bill benefits can also receive MHA, which can be used for child care.

🧾 Wisconsin-Based Resources for Veteran Families

Wisconsin goes the extra mile for its veterans. Here’s what’s available:

✅ WI Shares Child Care Subsidy Program

Helps low- to moderate-income families—including veteran households—pay for childcare.🔗 Apply here

✅ County Veteran Service Officers (CVSOs)

CVSOs across Wisconsin—including right here in Dane County—can connect you to grants, employment support, and indirect childcare resources.

✅ Local Nonprofits in Dane County

Organizations like The Road Home, Porchlight, and Operation Fresh Start often support veteran families with wraparound services, including childcare assistance and referrals.

🏥 VA Child Care Pilot Program (Temporarily Paused)

The VA once operated a Child Care Pilot Program offering free care during VA appointments. It’s currently paused—but may return, especially as Congress revisits veterans’ family care access.

Keep an eye out, especially if you use William S. Middleton Memorial VA in Madison.

🧩 Other Creative Options

Faith-Based Programs: Many local churches offer reduced-cost childcare to veterans.
Community Colleges: Schools like Madison College often provide on-site daycare services to enrolled students.
Employer Support: Some Wisconsin employers offer on-site childcare or reimbursement for veteran hires.

💬 Final Word: There Are Options—Let’s Find Yours

While you can't swipe a VA card to pay for daycare, there’s a strong support network available to help veterans and their families navigate childcare challenges in Wisconsin.

Whether it’s using education benefits, tapping into Child Care Aware, or connecting to local state-funded programs, the key is knowing where to look—and who to ask.

That’s where I come in.

As a veteran and real estate advisor in Madison, I’ve walked this path—and I’ve got your six. If you need help connecting to resources, homebuying support, or benefit guidance, I’ve built my business around helping veterans and their families thrive.