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Help Paying for Child Care

Publicly Funded Child Care helps eligible families pay for childcare so parents and caregivers can work, attend school, participate in job training, or engage in other approved activities.

Two boys with sidewalk chalk

Eligibility is based on factors such as household size, income, the child's age, and the reason care is needed. Some families may be required to pay a monthly copayment based on their household income.

Families may choose from a variety of eligible child care providers, including licensed child care centers, family child care homes, and, in some cases, approved in-home or relative caregivers.

Apply for Child Care Assistance

Applying is simple. You can:

  • Apply online through the Ohio Benefits Self-Service Portal
  • Call 844-640-6446 for assistance
  • Visit the Summit County Department of Job and Family Services to get application assistance.

During the application process, you may be asked to provide documentation verifying your identity, household members, income, employment or school participation, and other information needed to determine eligibility. These documents can be submitted via email at SummitE-Docs@jfs.ohio.gov.

Photo Credit: Two boys with sidewalk chalk - Photo by Tina Floersch on Unsplash.