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What is the Child Care Choice Program Voucher?

A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the Child Care Choice Program Voucher.

What is the Child Care Choice Program Voucher?

The Child Care Choice Program Voucher is a new support option from Ohio’s Department of Children and Youth. It helps families who earn too much to qualify for regular child care assistance but still need help paying for care. If your household income is between 146% and 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may be eligible. The program gives vouchers to help pay for licensed child care while you work, attend school, or job training.

Learn more about it here.

How do I apply for the Child Care Choice Program Voucher?

You apply by first submitting a Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC) application:

If your application is denied for PFCC because your income is too high but falls within the 146%–200% FPL range, your county office will automatically check if you’re eligible for the Child Care Choice Program Voucher.

How long does it take to receive funds from the Child Care Choice Program Voucher?

Once approved, your voucher typically begins immediately or by April 1, 2024 if you applied before that date.

If you qualify after being denied PFCC due to income, your voucher usually starts on the first day of the next month after approval.

Your child care provider is paid by the state after your child attends at least one day in a calendar month. Payments to providers typically happen the following month.

What do the application steps look like?

  1. Choose a licensed child care provider
    Use the Child Care Search website to find a licensed provider in your area.

  2. Submit an application for PFCC
    Apply online or by paper through your local county agency.

  3. Get your PFCC eligibility decision
    If you’re denied because your income is too high, your county office will automatically review your information for this voucher.

  4. Receive approval for the Child Care Choice Voucher
    If you qualify, your county office will notify you and authorize a voucher for your child.

  5. Use your voucher and arrange child care
    Your provider will confirm voucher authorization in the TAP system, and you can start care right away.

  6. Attend at least one day per month
    Your child must attend at least one day in a calendar month for the provider to be paid.

  7. Pay any required co-pay
    You may owe a small co-pay — up to 9% of your gross monthly income — if the voucher does not cover the full child care cost.

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

You’ll need to provide documents in these categories when you apply:

Child’s Age / Date of Birth

  • Birth certificate

  • Hospital record

  • Vaccination record

Income

  • Recent pay stubs

  • Employer letter showing wages

  • Federal tax forms (like a 1040)

Household Information

  • Lease or rental agreement

  • Recent utility bill with your name and address

Proof of Work, School, or Job Training

  • Current work schedule

  • School enrollment or class schedule

  • Job training program acceptance or attendance letter

Child Care Provider Information

  • Provider’s license number

  • Provider’s name and address (found in the TAP system or from your provider)

Common FAQ’s

1. Who can get this voucher?
Families earning between 146% and 200% of the Federal Poverty Level who are working, in school, or in job training, and don’t qualify for PFCC because their income is too high.

2. Do I need to apply separately for this voucher?
No. If you apply for PFCC and are denied due to income, your county office will automatically check if you qualify for the Child Care Choice Voucher.

3. Can I choose any child care provider?
Yes — as long as the provider is licensed and accepts PFCC or Child Care Choice Program vouchers.

4. Will I have to pay anything?
You may need to pay a co-pay, up to 9% of your monthly gross income for what the voucher doesn’t cover.

5. How long does my voucher last?
The voucher is good for 12 months. You’ll need to renew your application each year to continue receiving help.

Who do I contact about my application status?

Ohio Department of Children and Youth

You can also contact your local County Department of Job and Family Services (CDJFS) for application updates. Find your county office here.