NY Child Care Assistance Program – Eligibility, Benefits, How to apply?

The New York Child Care Assistance Program provides subsidies to eligible families to help cover the cost of child care. The program is available to families with a gross income of less than 85% of the state’s median income, which is currently $93,200 for a family of four.

NY Child Care Assistance Program

The New York state offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which helps eligible families with the cost of child care. This program can be a lifesaver for working parents, those seeking education or training, and families facing other qualifying circumstances.

To qualify, families must be employed, attending an approved vocational or educational program, or have a child with special needs. The amount of the subsidy is determined on a sliding scale based on the family’s income and household size. 

Families contribute a portion of the child care costs, with the minimum weekly share being $1. The application process involves submitting a completed application, child care request, work schedule, and absent parent form (if applicable) to the local Department of Human Services.

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Who Qualifies for New York Child Care Assistance Program?

The New York State Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) offers a helping hand to families who need financial assistance with child care. But not everyone qualifies. The key eligibility factors are:

  • Income Threshold: Your family’s income must fall below a specific limit set by the federal government and adjusted for family size. This limit typically hovers around 85% of the State Median Income, but the exact amount varies depending on your local Social Services District (LSSD).
  • Verification: Be prepared to submit documentation that verifies your household income. This may include pay stubs, tax returns, or other relevant documents.
  • Reason for Child Care: You must have a qualifying reason for needing child care. This typically includes:
    • Working at least 10 hours per week.
    • Participating in an approved job training or educational program.
    • Actively seeking employment.
    • Meeting other specific criteria established by your LSSD, such as attending domestic violence services or substance abuse treatment.
  • Age Limit: The child you need care for must be between the ages of birth and 13 years old to be eligible for CCAP assistance.
  • TANF Recipients: Families already receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits automatically qualify for CCAP.
  • Special Needs: Children with special needs may be eligible for additional benefits or higher reimbursement rates under the CCAP program.

Applying for NY Child Care Assistance Program

The application process for the CCAP is generally handled by your local LSSD. You can find contact information for your LSSD on the OCFS website. Here’s a general overview of the application steps:

  • The first step is to reach out to your local Social Services District. You can find contact information for your LSSD on the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) website. 
  • Many LSSDs provide downloadable application forms on their websites. This allows you to access and complete the application at your own convenience.
  • While the specific documents may vary slightly, you’ll typically need to gather proof of income, verification of employment or training program enrollment, and documentation of the child’s age and immunizations.
  • Once you’ve completed the application and gathered all required documents,the submission process depends on your LSSD:
    • Online Submission: Some LSSDs may have an online portal where you can upload your completed application and supporting documents. This is the most convenient option if available in your area.
    • Email Submission: Some LSSDs may accept application submissions via email. Be sure to follow their specific instructions on email format and document attachment guidelines.
    • Mail or In-Person Submission: If online options aren’t available, you may need to mail the application and documents to your LSSD or submit them in person at their office.

NY Child Care Assistance Program Amount and Income Limits

The maximum amounts and income limits a family can have and qualify are:

  • Annual Income Limits by Family Size:
    • 1 Person: $56,488.48 (Monthly: $4,707.37)
    • 2 Persons: $73,869.56 (Monthly: $6,155.80)
    • 3 Persons: $91,250.63 (Monthly: $7,604.22)
    • 4 Persons: $108,631.70 (Monthly: $9,052.64)
    • 5 Persons: $126,012.77 (Monthly: $10,501.06)
    • 6 Persons: $143,393.84 (Monthly: $11,949.49)

Activity Requirements

  • Qualifying Activities: The CCAP may be available for families needing child care to:
    • Work
    • Look for work
    • Attend employment training
    • Attend an education program
    • Meet income requirements

Family Share (Family Copay or Family Fee)

  • Cost of Care Contribution: Families qualifying for CCAP may need to pay a portion of child care costs.
  • Notice of Approval: Will include information on family share, if applicable, and payment details.

Family Share Based on Income Levels (Effective 6/1/2024 – 5/31/2025)

  • Income Levels and Family Share:
  • Family Size 2:
  • SIS Income: $20,440.00 – Weekly Family Share: $1.00
  • $40,000 – Weekly Family Share: $4.00
  • $60,000 – Weekly Family Share: $7.50
  • $80,000 – N/A
  • $100,000 – N/A
  • $73,869.56 (85% State Median Income) – Weekly Family Share: $10.50

To Get Relevant Information. Go to NCBLPC Homepage.