Child care costs can be a significant burden for families. Many parents and guardians wonder about financial help to manage these expenses, particularly asking, “Will we get our child care assistance money?”. Child Care Assistance programs are designed to support income-eligible families by covering a portion of their child care costs, enabling them to work, attend school, participate in training, or actively seek employment. This guide answers common questions about child care assistance, helping you understand if you might be eligible and how to access these crucial funds.
Who is Eligible for Child Care Assistance?
If you’re a parent or legal guardian needing help with child care expenses while working, attending school, actively job searching, or participating in a job training program, you may be eligible for Child Care Assistance. Residency in the specific state or region offering the assistance is typically required. For example, in New Mexico, applicants must be residents of the state.
How Do I Apply for Child Care Assistance?
The application process for Child Care Assistance varies depending on location, but generally, there are several ways to apply. Using New Mexico as an example, you can apply through these methods:
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In-Person Application: Visit a local Child Care office. These offices often provide in-person support and guidance through the application process. You can usually find a list of office locations on the program’s official website or documentation.
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Online Application: Many programs offer online application portals. These websites allow you to complete the application form electronically and upload required documents. Online systems often provide the benefit of tracking your application status. For New Mexico, the online portal is available at https://eligibility.ececd.nm.gov.
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Email Application: Some programs also accept applications via email. You would typically download the application form and required document list from the program’s website, complete the form, gather the documents, and submit them to a designated email address. In New Mexico, you can apply by emailing your application and documents to [email protected].
It’s always best to check the specific guidelines of your local or state Child Care Assistance program to determine the most convenient and efficient application method for you.
What Documents Are Needed for My Application?
To process your application for child care assistance, you will need to provide certain documents. The exact requirements vary, but commonly requested documents include proof of income, proof of residency, child’s birth certificate, and documentation related to your qualifying activity (work, school, job training, job search). It’s essential to consult the Child Care Assistance Document Library or contact your local office to get a precise list of required documents for your application. Submitting all required documents at once will help avoid delays in processing your application and getting your child care assistance money faster.
Who Counts as Household Members?
Understanding who is considered part of your household is crucial for determining eligibility and assistance amounts. Generally, your household includes:
- Biological parents, step-parents, and legal guardians of the children seeking child care assistance.
- Any legal dependents living in your home, including children.
- In some cases, grandparents residing in the home may also be counted as household members.
The specific definition can vary slightly by program, so it’s important to check the guidelines for your specific Child Care Assistance program.
What Income is Considered for Eligibility?
Child Care Assistance programs are designed for income-eligible families, so understanding what income is counted is vital. Countable income typically includes:
- Gross wages from employment
- Self-employment income
- Retirement and pension income
- Worker’s compensation
- Alimony
- Royalties
- Rental property income
- Certain Social Security benefits
However, some income sources are usually exempt and not counted towards eligibility, such as:
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits (food stamps)
- Employer reimbursements (mileage, uniforms, etc.)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and some Social Security benefits
- VA disability benefits
- Student loans or educational payments
- Child support
For detailed information on countable and non-countable income, refer to the specific policies of your Child Care Assistance program, such as 8.9.3 NMAC in New Mexico.
What are the Income Limits Based on Family Size?
Income limits for Child Care Assistance are determined based on family size to ensure assistance reaches those most in need. These limits are updated periodically. To find the current income guidelines for your family size, you should consult the Child Care Assistance Document Library or the program’s official website. These guidelines will help you determine if your family income falls within the eligibility range for assistance.
How Long Does Approval Take for Child Care Assistance?
The processing time for Child Care Assistance applications varies, but programs aim to process applications efficiently once all necessary documentation is received. In New Mexico, for example, the Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD) typically processes applications within 10 working days of receiving all required documents.
Delays can occur if your application is incomplete or missing required documents. If documents are missing, the program will usually send a notification outlining what is needed and provide a timeframe to submit the missing information. Failing to submit the required documents within the given timeframe can result in application denial. Prompt submission of all required documentation is crucial for timely processing and receiving your child care assistance money.
Will Child Care Assistance Cover the Full Cost of Child Care?
Child Care Assistance programs are designed to help families with a portion of their child care expenses, but they may not always cover the full cost. Many programs require families to share in the cost of care through a copayment. The copayment amount is typically determined based on family size and household income.
However, it’s worth noting that copayments can sometimes be temporarily waived, depending on program policies and funding availability. It’s important to inquire about current copayment policies and if any waivers are in effect. Programs usually provide advance notice before implementing or reinstating copayments.
How is the Copayment Amount Determined?
When copayments are required, they are calculated based on a specific schedule that considers family monthly income and family size. The copayment amount may also vary depending on the number of children in care and the number of hours of care needed. You can usually find the Copayment Chart in the Child Care Assistance Document Library or on the program’s website. Understanding the copayment structure helps families budget for their child care expenses.
Can I Apply if I’m Not Working or in School?
While Child Care Assistance is primarily for families engaged in work, education, job training, or job searching, there can be exceptions. Programs may offer exemptions from these requirements in certain circumstances. For example, an exemption might be granted if a parent or guardian can demonstrate incapacitation due to medical reasons or disability. Documentation from a medical professional or a government agency providing disability benefits may be required to support an exemption request.
Are Expenses Considered for Eligibility or Copayment Amounts?
Eligibility for Child Care Assistance and copayment amounts are generally determined based on gross monthly income and family size. Household expenses, such as rent, utilities, or other bills, and income deductions are typically not considered when determining eligibility or calculating copayments. The focus is primarily on income and family size to ensure equitable distribution of assistance funds.
How Do I Pay the Copayment?
If you are required to pay a copayment, you will usually pay it directly to your child care provider each month. It’s important to discuss payment policies and procedures with your chosen child care provider and review their parent/family handbook for detailed information on copayment collection and payment methods.
Are There Other Fees I Need to Pay?
In addition to copayments, you might be responsible for incidental costs, such as fees for field trips or special lunches. However, Child Care Assistance programs generally cover registration fees, educational/activity or supply fees, and transportation fees for participating providers. Providers should not be charging families separately for these fees, as they are reimbursed by the program. If you are unsure about any fees, clarify with your provider and the Child Care Assistance program.
How Do I Find a Child Care Provider?
Finding a suitable child care provider is a crucial step once you are approved for assistance or even while applying. Many programs offer online search tools to help families find licensed child care providers in their area. For example, ECECD’s New Mexico Child Care Finder allows you to filter results based on location, child’s age, quality ratings, tuition, language, program type, and other criteria.
For personalized assistance in finding a provider, you can also contact child care resource and referral services. In New Mexico, NewMexicoKids Resource and Referral offers customized referrals through their hotline at 1 (800) 691-9067. These specialists can provide tailored recommendations based on your family’s specific needs and preferences.
Key Information About the Child Care Assistance Program
Child Care Assistance programs are valuable resources for families needing help with child care costs, ensuring that parents can work or attend school while their children are in safe and nurturing environments. For more detailed information about Child Care Assistance, you can:
- Call Early Childhood Services at 1-800-832-1321.
- Consult your local Child Care Assistance Document Library.
- Email program inquiries to [email protected].
By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and program details, you can navigate the system effectively and access the child care assistance money you may be entitled to, easing the financial burden of child care and supporting your family’s success.
