Child Care Assistance in Ohio

Residents of Ohio may qualify for help paying for child care through the Head Start program. Another option for families living in Ohio who need help paying for child care services are Child Care Benefits through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. In order to qualify, parents or guardians must be working or in a preapproved education or training program. The provider or care program that the family chooses must be approved for the financial benefits. Those who already receive funding from Ohio Works First are good candidates for Child Care Benefits.Visit your County Agency for more information or download the Application for Child Care Benefits.

How to get started:
To get started in the enrollment process, find the programs in your area by using the online Head Start Locator.

Many programs use the Federal Poverty Line as a guide for financial assistance with child care. If your annual income is at or below the poverty line, you may qualify for financial help. These are the guidelines:

• A family of 1 must make less than $11,490 per year.


• A family of 2 must make less than $15,510 per year.


• A family of 3 must make less than $19,530 per year.


• A family of 4 must make less than $23,550 per year.


• A family of 5 must make less than $27,570 per year.


• A family of 6 must make less than $31,590 per year.


• A family of 7 must make less than $35,610 per year.


• A family of 8 must make less than $39,630 per year.