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Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers in New York

New York Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

This is a no‑fluff, step‑by‑step New York–specific guide written for single moms who need childcare help now. It uses only official state, city, county, and federal sources and gives you real numbers, links, phones, timelines, and workarounds.


— Quick help box is first. Then the exact steps to apply in NYC and the rest of New York. —

Quick Help Box

  • If you live in NYC: apply for a child care voucher through the city’s MyCity portal. If you get stuck, call the ACS Early Care Call Center at 212‑835‑7610 (Mon–Fri, 8:30–5:30). Note: as of May 5, 2025, NYC placed most new non‑cash‑assistance applicants on a waitlist. You can still apply, but expect a delay. (home.nyc.gov, nyc.gov)
  • If you live anywhere in NY State except NYC or Schenectady: apply online using the new statewide Child Care Assistance Application (CCAA) portal. If you need a direct office contact, use the LDSS office finder linked on the CCAA invite page. (hs.ocfs.ny.gov)
  • If you live in Schenectady County: use the county’s online Child Care portal or call 518‑388‑4739. (schenectadycountyny.gov)
  • Income limits: most families qualify for assistance with income at or below 85% of New York’s State Median Income (SMI). For a family of 4, 85% SMI is $113,567.65 (June 1, 2025–May 31, 2026). (www3.erie.gov)
  • Typical family copay: New York’s formula is designed so most families pay a very low weekly share (often around 0–0–15/week for a family of four). The state reports CCAP covers at least 90% of weekly market‑rate costs for most eligible families. (governor.ny.gov)
  • Processing time: local districts must decide within about 30 days of getting your complete application, and NYC says voucher enrollment can take up to 6 weeks once you have a voucher and a provider. (otda.ny.gov, home.nyc.gov)
  • Minimum work hours in NYC pathway: “reason for care” includes working 10+ hours/week (and other reasons like school/training, job search, homelessness, domestic violence services, or substance‑use treatment). NYC also notes the 2025 minimum wage ($16.50/hour in NYC/LI/Westchester) when calculating income. (infohub.nyced.org, dol.ny.gov)

What You Can Get Today (Snapshot)

  • New York’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps pay for child care for kids from 6 weeks up to age 13 (or to age 19 for children with disabilities). In most cases CCAP pays 90%+ of the market‑rate price; you pay a small weekly family share. Many families of four end up paying about $15/week or less. (governor.ny.gov)
  • The income ceiling is statewide: up to 85% SMI based on family size. New SMI figures took effect June 1, 2025, through May 31, 2026 (see the full table below). (www3.erie.gov, tompkinscountyny.gov)
  • Eligibility is broader than you might think. Work, school/training, job search, homelessness, domestic violence services, or substance‑use treatment all qualify as “reasons for care.” NYC spells these out on its eligibility pages. (infohub.nyced.org)
  • 12‑ to 24‑month eligibility periods are available under state regs, and applications must be processed promptly; districts must stick to state timelines. (casetext.com, law.cornell.edu)
  • Reality check: access depends on local funding. NYC has a waitlist for most new non‑cash‑assistance applicants as of May 5, 2025. Some counties upstate also use waitlists when funds are tight. Apply anyway—priority rules can still help, and recertifications for current cases continue. (nyc.gov)

Start Here: How to Apply (by where you live)

New York City (all five boroughs)

Most important action first:

  • Apply online via the city’s MyCity portal: Use the “Apply for Child Care” page to get into MyCity, track your case, and upload documents. If you prefer paper, the site explains where to mail forms, but online is faster. Call 311 or 212‑835‑7610 for help. (home.nyc.gov)
  • NYC status (as of September 2025): Due to funding limits, NYC is placing most new low‑income applications (not on Cash Assistance) on a voucher waitlist. People on Public Assistance keep their child care guarantee. Recertifications continue if you remain eligible. Apply anyway to get a date stamp and a place in line. (nyc.gov)
  • Typical timeline:
    • Eligibility decision after you submit a complete application: the city aims to decide quickly, but high volume means it can take longer.
    • After you are found eligible and get a voucher: enrollment with your provider can take up to 6 weeks, especially if your provider is new to the system. (home.nyc.gov)
  • Where to find and compare providers:
    • NYC Child Care Connect shows inspection records and locations for licensed centers. Use it to shortlist programs near home or work. Call 311 if you have safety concerns. (access.nyc.gov, home.nyc.gov)
    • For home‑based programs (registered with the state), use the OCFS provider search tool. (hs.ocfs.ny.gov)
  • Get help one‑on‑one: The NYC Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) Consortium can help you compare options and availability. Call 1‑888‑469‑5999. (nyc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re waitlisted, check if you meet priority groups (homelessness, special needs, income below 300% SIS) that help with maintaining or prioritizing care and recertification. Keep your documents current and respond fast to any requests. If your employment or housing changes, report it right away. (nyc.gov)

Anywhere Else in New York State (outside NYC)

Most important action first:

  • Apply online via New York State’s new CCAA portal (run by OCFS). This opened statewide in July 2024, making it possible for most families to prescreen and apply online in one place. If you live in NYC or Schenectady, you’ll be redirected to your local portal. (governor.ny.gov, hs.ocfs.ny.gov)
  • If the online system tells you to contact your county, use the “Find your LDSS office” link on the CCAA invite page to get your local office phone and address. (hs.ocfs.ny.gov)
  • Typical timeline:
    • Districts must process applications promptly and make an eligibility decision within the 404.1(d) timeframes (generally around 30 days once your application is complete). You’ll get a written notice. (law.cornell.edu)
  • Where to find providers:
    • Use the OCFS statewide day care search to find licensed and registered providers by county, age group, and hours. (hs.ocfs.ny.gov)
  • Local example (Schenectady County): parents apply through the county’s dedicated portal and can call 518‑388‑4739 for help. The county posts the same 85% SMI income chart used statewide (see table below). (schenectadycountyny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your county is out of funds and using a waitlist, ask about priority categories (very low income, homelessness, child with special needs) and whether Title XX (social services) funding is available for preventive cases. Keep your application active and updated. (casetext.com)

Who Qualifies? Income Limits, Reasons for Care, and Family Share

Income limits (85% of State Median Income, effective June 1, 2025–May 31, 2026)

These are the official state numbers counties are using this year.

Household size 85% SMI (Annual) 85% SMI (Monthly)
2 $77,226.00 $6,435.50
3 $95,396.83 $7,949.69
4 $113,567.65 $9,463.97
5 $131,738.47 $10,978.20
6 $149,909.30 $12,492.44

Source: Erie County and Tompkins County Child Care pages (state SMI table used statewide, 6/1/2025–5/31/2026). (www3.erie.gov, tompkinscountyny.gov)

Reasons for care (examples)

  • Working 10+ hours/week (NYC lists this minimum; statewide, “employment” counts)
  • In school or vocational training
  • Job searching
  • Experiencing homelessness
  • Domestic violence services
  • Substance‑use treatment

NYC’s eligibility forms page lists these reasons clearly and accepts MyCity applications; counties outside NYC follow the state regulations in 18 NYCRR 415.2. (infohub.nyced.org, casetext.com)

Family share (your weekly copay)

New York’s formula is simple and low: your weekly family share is 1% of the amount of your annual income that’s above the Federal Poverty Guidelines, divided by 52. Some families (e.g., homeless, certain child welfare cases) pay $0. (tompkinscountyny.gov)

Formula (from county guidance):

  • Weekly copay = (Annual gross income − Federal Poverty Guideline for your family size) × 1% ÷ 52. (www3.erie.gov)

Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG) for 2025 (48 states/DC) used in that formula (partial): household of 2 is 21,150∗∗;3is∗∗21,150**; 3 is **26,650; 4 is $32,150. (aspe.hhs.gov)

Copay examples (so you can ballpark your weekly cost)

  • Family of 2 (mom + 1 child), annual income $45,000:
    • (45,000 − 21,150) × 1% ÷ 52 = about $4.59/week.
  • Family of 3 (mom + 2 kids), annual income $60,000:
    • (60,000 − 26,650) × 1% ÷ 52 = about $6.41/week.
  • Family of 4 (mom + 3 kids), annual income $80,000:
    • (80,000 − 32,150) × 1% ÷ 52 = about $9.21/week.
  • Family of 4 near the income ceiling $113,567.65 (85% SMI):
    • (113,567.65 − 32,150) × 1% ÷ 52 ≈ $15.65/week.

New York says CCAP covers at least 90% of weekly market‑rate costs for most families—so your share is small. NYC also highlights that most eligible families of four pay no more than around $15/week. (governor.ny.gov)

Reality check:

  • Your share is paid directly to the provider (usually credited to the youngest child’s slot).
  • You must stay current on your copays to keep care going. Counties may set $0 family share for certain hardship cases (homelessness, child protective/preventive cases). Ask. (tompkinscountyny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If the math still doesn’t fit your budget, combine CCAP with free 3‑K/Pre‑K hours (NYC), Head Start/Early Head Start, or after‑school subsidies to reduce paid hours. See “Other Programs That Lower Costs” below. (schools.nyc.gov)

Step‑by‑Step: Documents, Timelines, and How CCAP Pays

Documents you’ll likely need (have these ready before you click “apply”)

  • Photo ID and proof of New York residence (lease, utility bill)
  • Child’s birth certificate(s)
  • Social Security numbers or ITINs if available (not always required for the parent; immigration status rules focus on the child’s eligibility—see OTDA Q&A)
  • Proof of income (last 2–4 weeks of paystubs; award letters for SSI, unemployment, etc.)
  • Reason for care documents:
    • Work: paystubs or employer letter
    • School/training: class schedule/enrollment
    • Job search: district/job search forms (counties provide)
    • Homelessness: shelter letter or other verification
    • Domestic violence or substance‑use services: verification from program

NYC’s eligibility page lists required forms and how to submit; NYC notes the 2025 minimum wage of $16.50/hour for “working 10+ hours/week” eligibility. (infohub.nyced.org, dol.ny.gov)

Timelines you can plan around

Step NYC Rest of NY State
Eligibility decision City reviews as fast as possible; high volume and waitlist slowdowns possible in 2025. Districts must process promptly; eligibility is generally decided within about 30 days of a complete application.
Voucher issuance If eligible and funding is available; many new cases are on waitlist as of May 5, 2025 (still apply). If eligible, district issues an authorization to pay the provider.
Provider enrollment and start After voucher is issued, enrollment can take up to 6 weeks, longer if the provider is new to ACS. Typically quicker once the district authorizes care; timing varies by county and provider readiness.

Sources: NYC ACS application and support pages; HRA community update; 18 NYCRR 415.4. (home.nyc.gov, nyc.gov, law.cornell.edu)

What CCAP pays (market rates)

  • New York pays providers up to the state‑published “market rate” ceiling for your county, age of child, and type of care (center, family day care, group family day care, school‑age). OCFS updated market rates effective October 1, 2024; NYC and counties have posted guidance for providers. Your provider cannot be paid more than the lesser of the market rate or their usual private rate. (nyc.gov, suffolkcountyny.gov)
  • Your approval notice will show the authorized schedule (hours/days), start date, provider, and any family share. Always keep attendance accurate; payment is tied to enrollment and attendance rules. (nyc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If a provider won’t accept vouchers, ask if they’ll enroll as a legally exempt provider (relatives, friends, neighbors can enroll if they meet health/safety checks). NYC and OCFS have specific forms and enrollment steps for legally‑exempt care. (nyc.gov)

Other Programs That Lower Your Childcare Costs

Head Start and Early Head Start (infants, toddlers, and preschoolers)

  • Free, full‑day, year‑round programs for eligible families. Most programs prioritize families at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (e.g., family of 4 = $32,150 in 2025). Children in foster care, families experiencing homelessness, and families on TANF/SSI are categorically eligible. Programs can enroll a limited number of families over income. (aspe.hhs.gov, schools.nyc.gov)
  • NYC: find Head Start/Early Head Start options and get help via NYC Public Schools’ pages (info and enrollment line 718‑935‑2009). (schools.nyc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask programs about waitlists and mid‑year openings. Many sites enroll year‑round as seats open. Combine with part‑time CCAP hours if needed. (schools.nyc.gov)

NYC 3‑K and Pre‑K (age 3 and 4)

  • Free school‑day programs citywide. Many families can also access “Extended Day and Year” seats (up to 10 hours/day, full‑year) if they meet income and need criteria. Check current seat availability and apply through MySchools or a Family Welcome Center. (schools.nyc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you need longer hours than your seat offers, ask the program about extended day/year, or layer CCAP hours with a licensed after‑school program. (schools.nyc.gov)

New York State tax credits that put money back in your pocket

  • New York State Child and Dependent Care Credit: Refundable for full‑year residents. NY’s credit equals a percentage of your federal CDCC—ranging up to 110% of the federal credit for lower incomes—phasing down to 20% for higher incomes. File Form IT‑216. Updated April 30, 2025. (tax.ny.gov)
  • Empire State Child Credit: Refundable. Generally 33% of the federal Child Tax Credit (using 2017 rules) per child or $100 per child—whichever is higher; children under 17 now qualify (change effective 2023). See Form IT‑213 and 2025 guidance. (tax.ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your refund is small, check your withholding or ask a free tax prep site to help you claim every state and federal credit you qualify for.

How to Choose and Verify a Safe Provider (fast)

  • NYC centers: Use NYC Child Care Connect (inspection history, violations, closures). Call 311 for complaints. (access.nyc.gov)
  • Home‑based care anywhere in NY: Use the OCFS Day Care Program Search to review license/registration and any inspection findings. (hs.ocfs.ny.gov)
  • NYC Resource & Referral help: NYC CCR&R Consortium offers free help matching your needs to programs. Call 1‑888‑469‑5999. (nyccrr.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t find an opening, widen your search radius (near work or transit), call your local CCR&R, and ask programs about upcoming turnover dates (many seats open at the start of a month).

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Tables You Can Use Right Now

A) CCAP Income Limits at 85% SMI (effective 6/1/2025–5/31/2026)

Household size Annual limit Monthly limit
2 $77,226.00 $6,435.50
3 $95,396.83 $7,949.69
4 $113,567.65 $9,463.97
5 $131,738.47 $10,978.20
6 $149,909.30 $12,492.44

Source: NY counties (Erie/Tompkins) using the state SMI table for 2025–26. (www3.erie.gov, tompkinscountyny.gov)

B) Your Weekly Copay – Quick Calculator Examples (using 2025 FPG)

Family size Example income 2025 FPG Weekly family share
2 $45,000 $21,150 ≈ $4.59/week
3 $60,000 $26,650 ≈ $6.41/week
4 $80,000 $32,150 ≈ $9.21/week
4 $113,567.65 $32,150 ≈ $15.65/week

Formula: (Annual income − FPG) × 1% ÷ 52. Sources: ASPE 2025 FPG; county fee formula. (aspe.hhs.gov, www3.erie.gov)

C) Where to Apply (by location)

Location How to apply Help line
NYC (5 boroughs) Apply for Child Care (MyCity) 212‑835‑7610
Rest of NY State (except Schenectady) Statewide CCAA portal Use LDSS office finder on the CCAA invite page
Schenectady County Schenectady Childcare Assistance portal 518‑388‑4739

Sources: NY Governor/OCFS and county pages. (governor.ny.gov, hs.ocfs.ny.gov, schenectadycountyny.gov)

D) Free or Low‑Cost Preschool Options in NYC

Program Who it’s for Hours How to apply
3‑K (age 3) All NYC residents age 3 School day; some extended day/year seats up to 10 hrs MySchools or Family Welcome Center
Pre‑K (age 4) All NYC residents age 4 School day; some extended day/year seats up to 10 hrs MySchools or Family Welcome Center

Source: NYC Public Schools pages for 3‑K and Pre‑K. (schools.nyc.gov)

E) Key Numbers at a Glance

Item Amount
85% SMI (family of 4, 2025–26) $113,567.65
NYC minimum wage (2025) $16.50/hour
Federal Poverty Guideline (family of 4, 2025) $32,150
NYC ACS Call Center 212‑835‑7610
NYC CCR&R help line 1‑888‑469‑5999

Sources: Erie/Tompkins County SMI charts; NYSDOL; ASPE; NYC ACS; NYC CCR&R Consortium. (www3.erie.gov, dol.ny.gov, aspe.hhs.gov, home.nyc.gov, nyccrr.org)

Application Checklist (print this)

  • Proof of identity and New York address (ID + lease/utility bill)
  • Child’s birth certificate(s)
  • Social Security numbers or ITINs if you have them (not always required for you as the parent; focus is on child’s eligibility)
  • Proof of income (last 2–4 weeks paystubs; SSI, unemployment, child support, etc.)
  • “Reason for care” documents:
    • Work: employer letter or paystubs
    • School/training: current class schedule
    • Job search: completed local job search forms
    • Homelessness: shelter verification
    • Domestic violence/substance‑use treatment: verification letter
  • Provider information (name, license/permit ID if known)
  • If using a relative/friend: ask about legally‑exempt provider enrollment (forms are on NYC/OCFS sites)

NYC’s “Eligibility Forms” page outlines documents by reason for care. (infohub.nyced.org)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Starting the provider search late. Even if you’re applying now, start calling programs today. Use NYC Child Care Connect (centers) and OCFS search (home‑based care). (access.nyc.gov, hs.ocfs.ny.gov)
  • Sending an incomplete application. Missing paystubs or reason‑for‑care proof slows everything. NYC and counties will pause your case until the file is complete. Use the checklist above. (home.nyc.gov)
  • Picking a provider that can’t take vouchers. Confirm the provider accepts CCAP and is enrolled (or willing to enroll). Legally‑exempt relatives/friends must complete health/safety enrollment before payment can start. (nyc.gov)
  • Ignoring copays or attendance rules. Your small weekly share must be paid to the provider. Keep attendance accurate; payment is tied to it. (nyc.gov)
  • Missing recertification deadlines. Put renewal dates on your calendar. In NYC, families who recertify on time generally keep assistance if they remain eligible. (nyc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re denied, read the notice and appeal on time. Ask your CCR&R for help and request a conference with your local district. If funds are exhausted, ask to be put on the waitlist and whether any priority categories apply. (nyccrr.org, law.cornell.edu)

Real‑World Examples (using 2025 numbers)

  • “I make 60,000∗∗withtwokids(familysize3).”Yourweeklyshareisroughly∗∗60,000** with two kids (family size 3).” Your weekly share is roughly **6.41. If your county authorizes a center at the state market rate, CCAP pays the rest (up to the ceiling). (aspe.hhs.gov, www3.erie.gov)
  • “I’m working 20 hours/week in Brooklyn at $16.50/hour and taking night classes.” You meet NYC’s “reason for care” (work 10+ hrs/week; school also qualifies). Apply via MyCity. Expect a waitlist for new low‑income voucher cases; apply anyway to get in line. (dol.ny.gov, infohub.nyced.org, nyc.gov)
  • “I live in Albany County.” Apply via the statewide CCAA portal, then pick a provider using OCFS search. Your district has to process the application promptly and issue a decision within about 30 days once your file is complete. (hs.ocfs.ny.gov, law.cornell.edu)

NYC‑Specific Notes You Should Know in 2025

  • NYC waitlist: As of May 5, 2025, NYC paused most new low‑income vouchers due to funding. If you’re on Cash Assistance, your childcare remains guaranteed. Recertifications continue. Always submit recert paperwork by your deadline. (nyc.gov)
  • After approval: NYC says enrollment with your provider can take up to 6 weeks (longer if the provider is new). Build that into your timeline. (home.nyc.gov)
  • Free 3‑K/Pre‑K: NYC offers universal seats; some seats include extended day/year (up to 10 hours) for working families who qualify. Use MySchools and apply early. (schools.nyc.gov)

Diverse Communities: Getting the Right Fit

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers
    • Ask your CCR&R for programs with inclusive training and family policies. NYC CCR&R offers multilingual support and can match programs to your preferences. 1‑888‑469‑5999. (nyccrr.org)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or children with disabilities
    • For infants/toddlers (birth–3), call Early Intervention through your county or 311 in NYC. County phone list is on the NYS DOH site. For ages 3–5, your district’s CPSE manages preschool special education and related services, which can include transportation and extended day for IEP needs. (health.ny.gov)
  • Veteran single mothers
    • If you or your child’s other parent is active‑duty or drilling, ask your base/installation child & youth services about DoD fee assistance (often called MCCYN) that helps pay for community care when on‑base care is full. Pair it with NY’s CCAP if allowed by program rules.
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms
    • OTDA’s Q&A confirms you may get child care assistance even if you’re not a citizen; the child who needs care must be in the U.S. legally. Many early childhood programs do not consider “public charge.” Always ask the program directly about documentation. (otda.ny.gov)
  • Tribal citizens
    • If you’re a member of a federally recognized tribe in NY, ask your tribal office about CCDF (tribal child care assistance) in addition to state CCAP.
  • Rural single moms with limited access
    • Use your county CCR&R to locate licensed home‑based programs with flexible hours, and ask about transportation options or “non‑traditional hours” care for shift work.
  • Single fathers
    • All programs are gender‑neutral. If you’re the custodial parent or you have court‑ordered physical custody, you can apply.
  • Language access
    • Governor’s office and NYC sites provide translated materials in multiple languages. Call 311 (NYC) or your county office and ask for interpretation; MyCity and state portals support multiple languages. (governor.ny.gov)

Frequently Asked Questions (New York, 2025)

  • Do I have to be working to get help?
    • No. School/training, job search, homelessness, domestic violence services, and substance‑use treatment are valid reasons. NYC lists these on its eligibility page. (infohub.nyced.org)
  • What if I’m between jobs?
    • You can still qualify based on job search. Ask your district about how to document job search time and any time limits. (casetext.com)
  • How long does approval take?
    • Districts must process promptly and issue a decision in about 30 days from when your application is complete. NYC enrollment with a provider can take up to 6 weeks after you get your voucher. (law.cornell.edu, home.nyc.gov)
  • What’s the income cutoff for a family of 4?
    • $113,567.65 (85% SMI) for 6/1/2025–5/31/2026. (www3.erie.gov)
  • How much will I pay each week?
  • Does my immigration status matter?
    • OTDA says you can get child care assistance even if you’re not a U.S. citizen; the child must be legally present. (otda.ny.gov)
  • Can I use a relative as my provider?
    • Often yes. Relatives/friends can enroll as legally‑exempt providers after health/safety checks and training. NYC/OCFS have forms and instructions online. (nyc.gov)
  • Is there really a waitlist in NYC right now?
    • Yes—NYC paused most new low‑income vouchers on May 5, 2025 due to funding limits. Apply anyway to get on the list; recerts continue. (nyc.gov)
  • I need infant care now. What are my options?
    • Apply for CCAP, search NYC Child Care Connect/OCFS for openings, ask about Early Head Start (free, year‑round if eligible), and see whether your employer offers a Dependent Care FSA to set aside pre‑tax dollars. (schools.nyc.gov)
  • Are there state tax credits that help with childcare?
    • Yes. NY’s Child and Dependent Care Credit (refund up to 110% of your federal CDCC for lower incomes), plus the Empire State Child Credit (33% of the federal CTC under 2017 rules or $100 per child). (tax.ny.gov)

Reality Checks, Tips, and Plan B Options

  • Funding ebb/flow is real. NYC has a voucher waitlist right now; some counties also pause new low‑income openings when funds run short. Keep your application active, respond fast to document requests, and ask about priority categories. (nyc.gov)
  • Market‑rate ceilings matter. If your provider charges above the state market rate, you may owe the difference. Ask the provider to submit the rate form if they haven’t updated it since the 2024 market rate increase. (nyc.gov)
  • If CCAP won’t cover enough hours, combine programs: CCAP + 3‑K/Pre‑K (extended day/year) + after‑school for siblings can bring your out‑of‑pocket close to zero. (schools.nyc.gov)
  • Use every tax credit. File Form IT‑216 and IT‑213 to increase your refund. If you get a small refund, adjust your withholdings for the rest of the year. (tax.ny.gov)

Local Help and Contacts

Why this guide is different (based on our scan of top search results)

  • We checked the top results for “New York Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers.” Many pages don’t publish the current 2025–26 income limits, the real copay formula with examples, or current NYC waitlist status. This guide includes those numbers, direct application links, phone numbers, and realistic timelines from official sources (updated through August/September 2025). (www3.erie.gov, governor.ny.gov, nyc.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from the New York Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) and NYC Public Schools, NYS Department of Labor, NYS Department of Taxation and Finance, U.S. HHS/ASPE, and county social services pages. It follows our Editorial Standards (E‑E‑A‑T, YMYL) and is reviewed regularly.

Disclaimer

Program rules, funding levels, market rates, income charts, and application portals can change during the year. Always confirm details with your local district or the official portals linked in this guide. We are not a government agency and cannot guarantee individual outcomes.

References (key sources used throughout):

  • NY Governor’s Office: statewide childcare portal launch; eligibility at 85% SMI; “most families of four pay no more than $15/week.” (governor.ny.gov)
  • Erie & Tompkins County CCAP pages: 2025–26 SMI chart; 1% copay formula over FPG. (www3.erie.gov, tompkinscountyny.gov)
  • NYC ACS: Apply for Child Care (MyCity); voucher enrollment timeline; waitlist notice (May 5, 2025); provider info. (home.nyc.gov, nyc.gov)
  • NYC DOE: Eligibility reasons, income table, and forms; 3‑K and Pre‑K admissions info. (infohub.nyced.org, schools.nyc.gov)
  • ASPE (HHS): 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines. (aspe.hhs.gov)
  • NYSDOL / NY.Gov: 2025 minimum wage rates. (dol.ny.gov, ny.gov)
  • NYS Tax Dept: Child & Dependent Care Credit; Empire State Child Credit. (tax.ny.gov)
  • OCFS: statewide day care provider search. (hs.ocfs.ny.gov)
  • NYS DOH: Early Intervention county contacts. (health.ny.gov)

What to do if this still doesn’t get you care:

  • Apply now so your place is held.
  • Call your CCR&R for live help (NYC: 1‑888‑469‑5999).
  • Ask your district about priority status and any temporary assistance (protective/preventive child welfare, homelessness).
  • Pair CCAP with Head Start, 3‑K/Pre‑K, and after‑school care to reduce paid hours. (nyccrr.org, schools.nyc.gov)

Stay persistent—you’re not doing anything wrong. New York has expanded eligibility and created new online tools; use them, keep your file complete, and follow up regularly.

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