Support for Childminders and Day Fathers in Lower Austria

The funding program of the State of Lower Austria supports self-employed childminders in Lower Austria with a direct subsidy towards social security contributions. The aim of the funding is to reduce the financial burden of mandatory contributions in the first and second year of care by up to €1,200 per calendar year and to ensure tailored support from the third year onwards in accordance with the actual contributions paid. Eligible for funding are private applicants who can provide a valid permit for caring for children in a home environment. To receive the grant, the annual statement from the Social Insurance Institution for Trade and Industry (SVA), the previous year’s income tax assessment, and the care permit must be submitted to the Office of the Lower Austrian State Government by no later than November 30 of the following year. Additional documentation may be requested if necessary.

The funding is aimed at childminders who offer professional and reliable childcare within the thematic areas of Children and Youth, Social Affairs, and Work & Social Affairs. This financial support enables stable planning of contribution-related expenses and promotes quality in childcare work. Since funding opportunities are ongoing, interested parties can apply annually and thus benefit from long-term relief. Supplementary documents to verify the funding requirements enable transparent processing. With a view to sustainably strengthening home-based care, this program makes an important contribution to ensuring demand-oriented developmental spaces for children in Lower Austria.