For current childcare providers in Michigan, renewing your daycare license is a critical process for maintaining your business. Navigating the state of Michigan daycare license renewal requirements ensures your program remains compliant and operational. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the renewal timeline, documentation, fees, and common issues to help you manage the process smoothly.
Understanding the timeline is the first step to a successful annual daycare license renewal in Michigan. The state initiates the process by sending renewal information to you approximately three months before your current license is set to expire. It is crucial that you do not submit an online renewal application until after you have received this information in the mail.
Once you receive the renewal packet, you must complete the online renewal application as soon as possible. The deadline for submission is no later than 45 days prior to your license's expiration date. Failing to return the application and the required renewal fee before your license expires will result in the closure of your Michigan daycare license.
Certain requirements follow a multi-year schedule. For instance, proof of a radon gas test for your child care home is required every 4 years at the time of renewal.
The renewal process involves several steps and a significant amount of documentation. Whether you operate a Family Child Care Home, Group Child Care Home, or a Child Care Center, you must follow specific instructions provided by the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP).
To begin your Michigan daycare license renewal, you must first wait to receive the renewal information sent by the state. Submitting an application before you get this packet can cause it to be entered improperly into the licensing database, forcing you to resubmit it.
Once you are ready, you will go to MiLogin to begin your application. Before submitting, you are required to print and read the Licensing Rules applicable to your facility type—either for Family and Group Child Care Homes or for Child Care Centers—as well as the 1973 PA 116. If you have not previously submitted an application online, you will need to create a new MiLogin account. Navigating these initial steps and complex requirements is a key part of running your business, which is why Wonderschool offers tools and support to help providers manage their operations effectively.
For family and group child care home renewals, a specific set of materials must be returned to the Child Care Licensing division. All materials should be sent to: Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential, Child Care Licensing, Landmark Building, 105 W. Allegan St. - 2nd Floor, PO Box 30837, Lansing, MI 48909.
Your renewal packet must include the following:
Specific inspections are required for certain equipment in family and group child care homes. A fuel-fired furnace must be inspected by a licensed heating contractor. A fuel-fired water heater must be inspected by a licensed heating contractor or a licensed plumbing contractor. If you use a wood stove or other solid fuel appliance, it must be inspected by a mechanical inspector for the local jurisdiction or a licensed mechanical inspector.
The state of Michigan daycare license renewal process requires verification of ongoing professional development. The licensee must complete 10 clock hours of training per year. Each child care staff member and each child care assistant must complete 5 clock hours of training per year.
This annual training is assessed by the calendar year. All training must be documented on the Training Record (BCAL-4590), and verification must be available on-site at your facility. We know that finding time for professional development is challenging, which is why Wonderschool provides business coaching and classes to help you meet these requirements while growing your business.
Paying the renewal fee on time is mandatory. Failure to return the renewal application and the non-refundable renewal fee before your license expires will lead to the closure of your license.
The renewal fees are as follows:
Fees can be paid online with a credit or debit card through the MiLogin portal. However, you should submit a paper renewal application with a check or money order payable to the State of Michigan in certain situations. This method is required if you do not have a credit or debit card, if your family or group home has a Federal Tax Number ((F)EIN), or if you receive a specific error message in the online system.
Several common issues can delay the Michigan daycare license renewal process. Being aware of these potential roadblocks can help you avoid interruptions to your business.
A primary cause for delay is submitting the online renewal application before receiving the official renewal information in the mail. This will cause your application to be entered improperly and require resubmission.
Another significant issue affects home-based providers with a Federal Tax Number ((F)EIN). The online payment system does not recognize home childcare licenses (DF/DG) with (F)EINs, requiring these providers to submit a paper application and pay via check or money order. Similarly, if you see a message in the online portal that says “pay at the shopping cart,” you must switch to a paper application and mail-in payment to complete your renewal.
Whether you're navigating your first annual daycare license renewal in Michigan or just starting, the process can feel overwhelming. At Wonderschool, we specialize in helping passionate educators and providers start, run, and grow successful childcare businesses from the ground up.
If you're thinking about starting your own childcare program in Michigan, we provide comprehensive support to guide you through every step. We help potential and existing providers connect with government grants to secure funding for their programs. Our business coaching and classes offer invaluable knowledge on everything from creating a business plan to marketing your services.
We also assist providers in navigating the complexities of licensing and insurance, ensuring you meet all of Michigan's requirements. As a childcare marketplace, we connect you with local parents searching for quality care, helping you grow your enrollment and build a sustainable business. Wondering about your potential income? Use our calculator to see how much you could make by operating a daycare in your home.
A successful Michigan daycare license renewal depends on careful planning, attention to detail, and adherence to deadlines. By understanding the timeline, gathering all required documentation in advance, and being aware of common pitfalls, you can ensure a seamless continuation of your license and your business operations.
Always start the process as soon as you receive your renewal information from the state, but not before. Double-check that you have completed all forms, obtained necessary inspections, and fulfilled your continuing education requirements. By staying organized, you can keep your focus where it belongs: on providing excellent care to the children and families you serve.
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