How do I renew?

Renewals are applications to the Great Start Wage Supplement Program that occur every six months following initial eligibility. Your renewal application must be received during your renewal month, which you can find by using the My Registry Portal. To find your renewal date, click on My Registry, then Apply, and then Great START.  Once you find your Application History Decision Date, you can use the chart above to find what month your renewal is due. For example, if your decision date was in March, then your renewal month is September.

Click to watch the Great START Introduction Video!

To Renew Online

You will receive a courtesy email reminder prior to your renewal month.

  1. Log into your Registry Dashboard.
  2. Make sure your contact and employment information is correct by choosing Update.
  3. After you have updated your information, go back to the My Registry and choose Apply.
  4. Select the Great START tab and choose Renew Application.  
  5. Walk through the steps and once complete choose submit an application, you will need to print the Online Application Packet. This packet contains a list of the required documents that must be mailed to INCCRRA to complete your application.
  6. Check out this pdf Steps to Renew (267 KB) flyer for even more detailed instructions.

After your application is reviewed, you will be notified of your eligibility by email.

To Renew by Paper Application

You will receive a courtesy email reminder prior to your renewal month.

  1. Complete the  pdf Great START Application and Information Update Form (1.02 MB) .
  2. Gather and mail your required documents using the checklist provided in the application, prior to the end of your renewal month.
  3. Mail to:

INCCRRA/Applications
1226 Towanda Ave
Bloomington IL, 61701

After your application is reviewed, you will be notified of your eligibility by email.

Required Documents

Please use the checklist provided with the 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.

All Applicants

  • Original completed and signed Information Update Form.
  • Original completed and signed Great START Supplement Application.
  • Upon completion of additional coursework, please submit an official transcript. (Official electronic transcripts are accepted if sent from an accredited college or university to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Copies of foreign evaluations may be accepted. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.
  • Signed W-9 (IRS Form)-updated form needed if changes occurred since previous eligible application (ex: name change, move/change of address, etc.)

Center Staff Applicants

  • Four weeks of most recent pay stubs
  • Most recent W-2 (IRS Form) 

Family/Group Child Care Home Applicants

  • Most recent Schedule C (IRS Form)
  • Verification of children currently being served with completed IDHS child care assistance billing certificates/program verification OR Proof of Care Form
  • Most recent Form 8829 (IRS Form) with line 4 completed OR updated parent handbook, indicating hours and days of operation and holiday/vacation schedule
Excelerate Program

ExceleRate Illinois helps you prepare children for success in school and in life.

It also provides standards, guidelines, resources and supports to help you make sensible changes that lead to better quality outcomes for children.