Pennsylvania’s Child Care Works program can help pay for child care.
You may qualify if you:
- Live in Pennsylvania
- Have a child, usually under age 13
- Meet income rules
- Work, go to school, or take part in approved job training
Help may be available for full-time or part-time care, including care during evenings, nights, or weekends if approved. The amount you pay, called a copay, depends on your income and family size.
To apply, use COMPASS or contact your local Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC). If approved, you can choose a child care provider that accepts the program.
Key Takeaways
- Pennsylvania’s Child Care Works program can help low-income families pay for child care while parents work, go to school, or attend approved job training.
- To qualify, you usually must live in Pennsylvania, have a child under age 13, meet income limits, and be working, in school, or in approved training.
- You can apply online through COMPASS or contact your local Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC). You may need to provide proof of income, identity, address, and why you need child care.
- Help may be available for full-time or part-time care. It can also include travel time and care during evenings, weekends, or overnight hours.
- You must choose an approved child care provider that accepts Child Care Works payments. Depending on your income and family size, you may have to pay part of the cost.
Who Qualifies for Pennsylvania Child Care Works
You may qualify for Pennsylvania Child Care Works if you have a low income and need child care so you can work, go to school, attend job training, or complete another approved activity.
To qualify, you must:
- Live in Pennsylvania
- Be a parent or caretaker responsible for a child who needs care
- Have a child who’s usually under age 13
- Meet income and activity requirements
Children with qualifying special needs may be able to receive care after age 13.
Apply through your local Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC). You’ll need to share information about your household, income, work or approved activity, and child care needs.
Child Care Works can help you pay for reliable child care while you work toward your goals. Before choosing a program, make sure the child care provider is eligible to accept Child Care Works funding.
Income Limits and Family Copays
Income Limits and Family Copays
Your family’s income helps determine whether you can get Child Care Works and how much you may pay for child care.
When you apply, Pennsylvania looks at your household’s total income before taxes, your family size, and other eligibility details. Your income usually needs to be within the program’s limits when you enroll. You may still qualify if your earnings change, as long as they stay within the allowed range.
If you’re approved, you’ll usually pay a family copay. The amount depends on your income and family situation. Families with lower incomes usually pay less.
Tell your local Early Learning Resource Center right away if your income, household, job, or work schedule changes. They can explain the current income limits, estimate your copay, and help keep your case up to date.
What Pennsylvania Daycare Assistance Covers
Child Care Works can help pay for child care while you work, go to school, or attend an approved training program. If you qualify, the program may lower what you pay for child care and help you keep reliable care for your child.
Assistance may cover:
- Full-time or part-time child care, based on your approved schedule.
- Care during your work, school, training, and approved travel time.
- Care during evenings, weekends, or overnight hours if your schedule requires it.
You may still need to pay a family copay. The amount depends on your income and household size. The program generally helps pay for care when your child needs supervision while you complete approved activities.
Finding an Approved Child Care Provider
Once you’re approved for Child Care Works, you need to choose a child care provider that accepts the program.
You may choose:
- A licensed child care center
- A group child care home
- A family child care home
- Some approved relatives who provide care
Before choosing a provider, make sure they:
- Accept Child Care Works payments
- Have space for your child
- Can provide care during the hours you need
- Meet state licensing, background check, and health and safety requirements
Your child care schedule may need to match the hours you’re approved for work, school, or training.
If you need help finding a participating provider, contact your local Child Care Works agency.
How to Apply for Child Care Works
To apply for Pennsylvania’s Child Care Works program, apply online through the state’s COMPASS website or contact your local Child Care Works agency for help. Before you apply, gather your documents to avoid delays.
- Create or sign in to your COMPASS account and fill out the application.
- Provide proof of your income, identity, address, and need for child care.
- Reply quickly if the agency asks for more information.
- If approved, choose a child care provider that accepts the program.
You may qualify based on your income and whether you work, attend school or training, or take part in another approved activity. Agency staff can explain the rules and help you submit missing documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Assistance Continue if I Change Jobs or Lose Employment?
Yes. You may still receive assistance if you change jobs or lose your job. Report the change as soon as possible, keep meeting eligibility requirements, and provide any requested updates. You may also be able to adjust caregiver schedules while you look for new work.
What Happens if My Child Misses Several Days of Care?
Missing several days of care may affect your eligibility if it goes against your provider’s attendance policy. You may need to report the absences and explain why your child was out. Contact your caseworker as soon as possible, especially if your child is sick, there is an emergency, or your schedule has changed regularly.
Can Grandparents or Relatives Provide Subsidized Child Care?
Yes. A grandparent or other relative may be able to provide subsidized child care if they meet the program’s rules.
They may need to:
- Be approved as a child care provider
- Pass background checks
- Complete enrollment paperwork
- Meet any local eligibility requirements
Rules can vary by area, especially if the relative lives with you. Contact your local child care assistance office to find out whether your relative qualifies and how to apply.
How Do I Report Changes to My Household or Income?
Report changes to your household or income as soon as possible. You can report changes online through your benefits portal, by phone, or in person.
For income changes, provide proof such as recent pay stubs or a letter from your employer. Reporting changes quickly can help make sure you receive the correct benefits.
Is There a Waiting List for Pennsylvania Daycare Assistance?
You may be placed on a waiting list if there is not enough funding or space in the program. You must still meet the eligibility rules. Apply as soon as possible and contact your local office to ask about current availability and next steps.
Conclusion
If you qualify for Pennsylvania Child Care Works, you may get help paying for child care while you work, go to school, or train for a job.
Your eligibility depends on your income, family size, and child care provider. Apply through your local Early Learning Resource Center.
Gather your documents and apply today to see if you can get affordable child care.