Great START Required Documentation

Please use the checklist provided to ensure submission of all required documents to successfully complete an application. Any missing documentation will delay the application process and could lead to ineligibility to participate in the program. Upon review of an application, additional documentation may be required.

New Applicants

• All Applicants
  • Original completed and signed* Participant Application. (If on file, submit Information Update Form.)
  • Original completed and signed* Great START Supplement Application.
  • Copy of current IDCFS License.
  • Official transcripts.
• Center Staff Applicants
  • Income Verification Form (four weeks of most recent pay stubs).
  • Signed W-9 (IRS Form).
  • W-2 (IRS Form) from previous tax year.
• Family/Group Child Care Home Applicants
  • Most recent Schedule C (IRS Form).
  • Form 8829 (IRS Form) from previous tax year.
    OR
  • Updated parent handbook.
  • Signed W-9 (IRS Form).
  • Verification of children currently being served (e.g., parent receipts, completed IDHS child care assistance billing certificates/program verification, etc.).

Renewal Applicants

• All Applicants
  • Original completed and signed* Information Update Form.
  • Original completed and signed* Great START Supplement Application.
  • If license on file has expired, inlcude copy of current IDCFS License.
  • Upon completion of additional coursework, please submit an official transcript.
• Center Staff Applicants
  • Income Verification Form (four weeks of most recent pay stubs).
  • W-2 (IRS Forms)—for applications received February–July from previous tax year.
• Family/Group Child Care Home Applicants
  • Schedule C (IRS Form).
  • Form 8829 (IRS Form) from previous year.
    OR
  • Updated parent handbook.
  • Verification of children currently being served (e.g., parent receipts, completed IDHS child care assistance billing certificates/program verification, etc.).

*Signatures on Participant and Supplement Applications must be in blue or black ink.

For questions and additional information about the Great START Program, please call toll-free (866) 697-8278 or contact us here.