For families in San Diego seeking affordable or potentially free child care options, understanding the Child Development Associates (CDA) reimbursement schedule is crucial. This guide breaks down how the CDA program supports families by reimbursing child care costs, making quality care more accessible.
Navigating Variable Schedules and Reimbursement
Families with variable schedules can benefit from CDA reimbursement for the actual hours of care provided, as long as they fall within the authorized hours. It’s important to note that reimbursement will not exceed either the provider’s billed amount or the Regional Market Rate Ceiling (RMRC) listed on the child care certificate for full-time (FT) or part-time (PT) care. CDA does not cover child absences, provider holidays, or closure days under variable schedules. Parents are responsible for any difference between the full billed amount and the CDA reimbursement.
Holiday and Non-Operation Day Reimbursement Policies
CDA provides reimbursement for provider holidays and non-operation days, but this is limited to a maximum of 10 days per fiscal year. Once this limit is reached, reimbursement for subsequent closure days will be prorated. This policy ensures that families receive support while also managing program resources effectively.
Coverage for Registration, Material, and Insurance Fees
In addition to hourly care, CDA may also reimburse for registration, material, and insurance fees if the total reimbursement amount stays within the Regional Market Rate Ceiling (RMRC). Reimbursement for these fees is limited to once per child, per fiscal year, and is processed as a single payment upon request on the child’s attendance record. It’s important to be aware that parents are responsible for any excess fees if program fees exceed the RMRC or if there are multiple fees within a year.
Reimbursement for License-Exempt Providers and RMRC
For license-exempt providers, the reimbursement structure depends on the authorized hours per week. The Full Time Weekly RMRC applies when child care is authorized for 25 or more hours per week. If care is authorized for less than 25 hours per week, the Part Time RMRC will be used. To understand specific rates, you can View the State’s RMRC by County. For comprehensive details, refer to the full Program Guidelines.
By understanding these reimbursement guidelines, San Diego families can effectively utilize CDA programs to access more affordable child care, moving closer to the possibility of free child care programs through subsidized support.
