Vermont Document Checklist for Kinship Benefits: What to Gather Before You Apply

Why Documentation Matters So Much

The most common reason kinship benefit applications get delayed or denied in Vermont isn't ineligibility — it's missing paperwork. ESD caseworkers process hundreds of applications, and anything incomplete goes to the bottom of the pile or gets a denial letter.

Gathering your documents before you start any application saves weeks of back-and-forth and reduces the chance of a denial that forces you into the fair hearing process.

Documents Every Program Needs

Regardless of which Vermont benefit you're applying for, you'll need these core documents:

For the child:

• Birth certificate or other proof of age
• Social Security number (or proof you've applied for one)
• Any income the child receives: Social Security survivor benefit statements, child support payment records, or personal earnings documentation

For you as the caregiver:

• Government-issued photo ID
• Proof that the child lives with you — this is the most common sticking point

Proof of residence with the child (any of these work):

• School enrollment letter showing your address
• Pediatrician or medical provider records listing the child at your address
• A utility bill in your name at the address where the child lives
• A non-parent caregiver residency affidavit (some school districts provide these)

Program-Specific Documents

Reach Up Child Only (Form 202CARE)

• The completed Form 202CARE (not Form 202)
• Documentation of the child's income, if any
• If you have a court order (guardianship, conditional custody), bring a copy — though it's not required for informal arrangements
• If requesting a good cause waiver for child support: police reports, protective orders, domestic violence agency statements, or a personal safety affidavit

3SquaresVT

• Proof of your income (pay stubs, Social Security statement, pension documentation)
• Shelter cost documentation (rent receipt, mortgage statement, property tax bill)
• If you're 60 or older: receipts for out-of-pocket medical expenses (prescription copays, Medicare premiums, dental bills, transportation to medical appointments)

Dr. Dynasaur

• Application Form 205ALLMED (or apply online through Vermont Health Connect)
• Documentation of the child's income — your income is not counted
• No court order required — a relative caregiver can apply on the child's behalf

CCFAP Childcare

• Access to the CDDIS Parent Portal (laptop or desktop recommended)
• Proof of your work, school, or training schedule
• Childcare provider details (name, license number, contact)
• If claiming the income-guideline waiver: proof of your Reach Up Child Only grant and guardianship order

Court-Related Documents (If Applicable)

If you've gone through probate or family court:

• Probate Court Order of Appointment (Form 700-00070C)
• Guardianship Agreement and Family Plan
• Conditional Custody Order (if issued through Family Court)

Keep certified copies. ESD and CDD will want to see the original order, not a photocopy of a photocopy.

One Folder, Every Application

The most effective approach is assembling one organized folder with all your documents before starting any application. Most of the same documents get used across multiple programs, and having them ready means you can apply for Reach Up Child Only, 3SquaresVT, and Dr. Dynasaur in quick succession without starting the document hunt each time.

Our Financial Help for Grandparents and Relatives Raising a Child in Vermont guide includes a printable document preparation checklist organized by program, with space to mark off each item as you gather it — designed so nothing gets missed across all your applications.

See more Vermont guides →