What to Know About the Trump Admin’s Freeze on Federal Child Care Funds

Federal officials say new verification requirements are needed before child care funds are released to states.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speaks to the media at Deerwood Elementary in Eagan, Minn., on Sept. 2, 2025. Walz said he considers federal prosecutors to be “partners" who hold criminals accountable. Stephen Maturen/Getty Images

Major changes are due to hit federally subsidized child care providers for the new year, following concerns of widespread fraud.

The Trump administration has moved to freeze child care funding to all 50 states, pending additional verification steps on the part of the providers.