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?
Family Size | Income Limit for Initial Eligibility |
Income Limit for Transitional Eligibility | Income Limit for Ongoing Eligibility for Child Care |
2 | $1,760 | $2,030 | $4,060 |
3 | $2,213 | $2,553 | $5,105 |
4 | $2,665 | $3,075 | $6,150 |
5 | $3,118 | $3,598 | $7,195 |
6 | $3,571 | $4,120 | $8,240 |
7 | $4,024 | $4,643 | $9,285 |
8 | $4,477 | $5,165 | $10,330 |
9 | $4,930 | $5,688 | $11,375 |
10 | $5,382 | $6,210 | $12,420 |
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?
- Yes. For a list of child care providers in the area, use the following link: http://www.odjfs.state.oh.us/cdc/query.asp