How to Apply
Here are the simple steps to check if you can get help with child care.
Step 1: Find a provider.
Step 2: Get your documents ready. You will need some information to apply.
- Details about your household
- Information about your income or pay stubs
- Where you work or go to school
- Name and address of your child care provider
- Birth certificates for your children who need care
Step 3: You can apply in two ways:
- Apply online through the Self Service Portal (click image below).
- Fill out a JFS 7200 paper application and submit it to your local office or complete the JFS 7200 - Application for Cash, SNAP, Medical, and Child Care Assistance via our forms page located on our website (lcdjfs.com) and submit.
Other ways to submit applications and/or verifications:
- U.S. Mail (attention to Child Care Unit)
- Fax: (440)323-3422 (attention to Child Care Unit).
- Email: lorainjfs@jfs.ohio.gov (if sending verifications, please include your name, case #, and/or SSN)
Required Child Care Verifications
- Verify earned income received in the last 30 days.
- Verify unearned income received in the last 30 days.
- Citizenship/Alien/Refugee status.
- Qualifying/Approved activity (school schedule, work verifications).
- Verification of resources is only required if the family self-declares to having more than one million dollars in cash, checking and/or savings accounts.
* Please note, there may be additional verifications requested once your application is reviewed.