Lorain County Job & Family Services

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Frequently Asked Questions

What age range is child care provided for?

  • Ages 0-13
  • If there are special needs as determined by a physician, children ages 13-18 may also be eligible

Is there a limit to the number of hours my provider can watch my children each day?

  • Yes, a provider can only be paid for a maximum of 18 hours per day

I work third shift. Can the Department of Job and Family Services pay for a child care provider while I sleep?

  • Sleep time is determined on a case-by-case basis, but not to exceed 8 hours per day

I am unemployed and looking for work. Will you pay for child care during this time?

  • No. In order to receive subsidized child care, the care must be provided while you are at work, school, or participating in an OWF program.

I only use child care 2 days in the month. Do I still owe the entire co-payment (fee)?

  • If the cost of child care for the month is less than the co-payment, you pay the actual cost of care to your provider

What are the income guidelines to receive child care?

Maximum Monthly Gross Income per Family Size, Effective 10/1/2020
Family Size Maximum Income Limit for Initial Application Eligibility* (130% of FPL) 
 Maximum Income Limit for Transitional Eligibility* (150% of FPL) Maximum Income Limit for Ongoing, Renewal and Reinstatement Eligibility* (300% of FPL)
2 $1,868 $2,155 $4,310
3 $2,353 $2,715 $5,430
4 $2,839 $3,275 $6,550
5 $3,324 $3,835 $7,670
6 $3,809 $4,395 $8,790
7 $4,295 $4,955 $9,910
8 $4,780 $5,515 $11,030
9 $5,266 $6,075 $12,150
10 $5,752 $6,635 $13,270

 * These Amounts are determined using the 2020 Federal Poverty Guidelines as published in the Federal Register on February 1, 2020.

I want to be certified as a child care provider with Lorain County Department of Job and Family Services. What do I have to do, and how long will it take?

  • Contact the LCDJFS Child Care Provider supervisor at (440) 284-4436
  • Several documents, like fingerprint cards and references, need to be submitted to us and reviewed for approval. A background check is run, and a home inspection is completed
  • The average length of time for certification is 12 weeks

Will you pay someone to come into MY home and care for my children?

  • No

Can I take my children to a Day Care Center?

Child Care