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?

Income Guidelines Effective 10/1/2021

Family Size

2021 Federal Poverty Level (100%) Annually

2021 Federal Poverty Level (100%) Monthly

Maximum Monthly Income Limit for Initial Eligibility* (142%)

Maximum Monthly Income Limit for Transitional Eligibility* (150%)

Maximum Monthly Income Limit for Special Need Eligibility* (150%)

Maximum Monthly Income Limit for Ongoing Eligibility* (300%)

2

$17,420

$1,452

$2,062

$2,178

$2,178

$4,355

3

$21,960

$1,830

$2,599

$2,745

$2,745

$5,490

4

$26,500

$2,209

$3,136

$3,313

$3,313

$6,625

5

$31,040

$2,587

$3,674

$3,880

$3,880

$7,760

6

$35,580

$2,965

$4,211

$4,448

$4,448

$8,895

7

$40,120

$3,344

$4,748

$5,015

$5,015

$10,030

8

$44,660

$3,722

$5,285

$5,583

$5,583

$11,165

 

* These amounts are determined using the 2021 Federal Poverty Guidelines as published in the Federal Register on February 1, 2021.  If the family size is above 8, add $4,540 to the annual income for each additional household member.

 

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