Accessing quality child care is crucial for working families and those pursuing education or job training. In New York City, the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) offers funded child care programs to help eligible families afford child care services. This guide provides comprehensive information on Acs Funded Child Care Programs, who can apply, and how to navigate the application process.
Who is Eligible for ACS Funded Child Care Assistance?
ACS funded child care programs are designed to support families who need assistance with child care costs. Eligibility for these programs is primarily based on your family’s income, your reason for needing care, and your residency in New York City.
To qualify, your family’s income must fall below 85% of the State Median Income. You can find the specific income thresholds on the ACS website. In addition to income, you must have an approved “reason for care.” This means you must be able to demonstrate at least one of the following circumstances:
- Employment: You are currently employed and work a minimum of 10 hours per week.
- Education or Vocational Training: You are enrolled in an educational program or vocational training program to enhance your skills and employability.
- Job Search: You are actively seeking employment.
- Temporary Housing: You are currently living in temporary housing. This category often receives priority access to child care assistance.
- Domestic Violence Services: You are attending services related to domestic violence.
- Substance Abuse Treatment: You are receiving treatment for substance abuse.
Eligibility verification involves reviewing the documentation you provide with your application. If you are uncertain about your eligibility, ACS offers a quick online survey to help you determine if you might qualify. You can access this survey on the MyCity NYC website.
Applying for ACS Child Care Voucher: A Step-by-Step Guide
ACS streamlines the application process for child care assistance through the MyCity online portal. Applying online is the fastest and most efficient way to seek assistance.
Online Application via MyCity:
- Visit the MyCity NYC website.
- Create an account or log in if you are an existing user.
- Navigate to the section for ACS child care assistance applications.
- Fill out the online application form, providing accurate information about your family size, income, residency, and reason for seeking child care.
- Upload the required documentation as requested. This may include proof of income, proof of residency, and documentation supporting your reason for care (e.g., employment verification, school enrollment).
- Submit your application through the MyCity portal.
- Track the status of your application online through your MyCity account.
Applying by Mail:
While online application is encouraged, you can also apply for ACS funded child care programs via mail.
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Download the printable application forms from the ACS Forms for Families page.
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Complete all sections of the application form accurately and legibly.
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Gather all required documentation.
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Mail the completed application and documentation to the following address:
NYC Children – EDU
PO Box 40
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Important Note: If you apply online through MyCity, do not send a duplicate paper application. This can cause delays in processing your application.
Need Assistance?
If you require help with the application process or have questions about ACS funded child care programs, you can contact the ACS Call Center at 212-835-7610. The call center is open Monday to Friday, from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Special Circumstances and Programs
ACS recognizes that some families have unique circumstances that may require specific program considerations.
Families Experiencing Homelessness:
Families living in shelters or temporary housing are prioritized for child care assistance. If you are in this situation:
- Follow the general application steps outlined above.
- Select “Homelessness” as your reason for care in Section 3 of the application.
- Submit a housing questionnaire along with your application and other required documents.
For more detailed information, refer to the Early Care & Education Programs for Families Experiencing Homelessness Flyer.
Families on Cash Assistance:
If you are receiving Cash Assistance from the Human Resources Administration (HRA) and are employed or participating in work-related activities, you may be eligible for child care assistance. Contact your HRA Benefits Access Center for guidance and application support. More information is available on the HRA website.
Transitional Child Care (TCC):
Families who were previously on Cash Assistance but are no longer eligible may qualify for Transitional Child Care (TCC) benefits for up to one year. For eligibility details and application information, contact [email protected].
Families Receiving Child Welfare Services:
Foster families and families receiving prevention or protective services from ACS can access child care assistance through caseworker referrals. If you are in this situation, contact your caseworker or case planner to initiate a referral to ACS’s Division of Child and Family Well-Being.
Promise NYC Program:
Launching in January 2023, Promise NYC is a groundbreaking initiative to provide child care assistance to low-income families with children, including undocumented children who are typically ineligible for federally funded programs. ACS partners with community-based organizations to administer this program. Contact one of the four community-based organizations contracted by ACS for application information and support under Promise NYC.
By understanding the eligibility criteria and application process for ACS funded child care programs, families in New York City can access vital support to ensure their children receive quality early care and education. Applying for a child care voucher can significantly alleviate financial burdens and provide children with enriching learning environments.
