A guide for first-time applicants
Get help applying for child care assistance.
New York State’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible families pay for child care. Follow these four steps to get started. We recommend applying in person at the Erie County Day Care Unit.
-
1
Gather your documents
Bring these documents to the county office to help you complete your application.
Household identification
Identification for everyone in your household.
Income verification
Paystubs or other documents showing employment and income.
Proof of residence
Documents showing where you live.
Work or school schedule
Your schedule showing when child care is needed.
Ask the county which citizenship or immigration-status documents are needed for each child applying for assistance, and whether additional forms are required.
Check Erie County’s document requirements -
2
Our recommendation: visit in person
Visit the county office
For your first application, we recommend visiting the Erie County Day Care Unit in person so you can ask questions and get guidance on the application process.
-
3
Complete and submit your application
At the county office, ask for a child care assistance application and guidance on completing it. Submit your completed application and required documents to Erie County.
Keep a copy for your records and provide any additional information the county requests.
-
4
Receive a decision and plan your care
Erie County will review your application and determine whether you qualify. Follow the instructions in the county’s decision.
If you’re approved, choose an eligible child care provider and arrange enrollment. Confirm your approved care dates and any next steps with the county before relying on assistance to cover care.
You may need to pay part of the child care cost, called a family share copay. Some families are exempt; ask the county whether a copay applies to you.
For enrollment and availability at Little Angels, call (716) 896-2330.
Optional: watch the overview
View the child care assistance video for an introduction to the program.
Unable to visit in person?
You can also begin online or use a paper application.
-
Check whether you may qualify
The questionnaire is an initial check, not an approval.
-
Start your online application
Request an invitation through New York State’s application portal.
Helpful information for families
Little Angels provides information to help you get started. Erie County reviews applications and determines eligibility. Contact the county about your application, current funding, and any waiting list. Preparation guidance and dated income limits are based on the New York State Office of Children and Family Services CCAP handout.
A guide for families renewing assistance
Renew your
child care assistance.
Already receiving help with child care costs? Follow these steps to complete your renewal, also called recertification. We recommend visiting the Erie County Day Care Unit in person with your renewal paperwork.
-
1
Check your renewal notice and due date
Read your county renewal notice or recertification packet. Look for the deadline, the forms you need to complete, and the supporting documents requested for your case.
Submit your renewal and requested documents by the assigned due date. Keep your case number and notice with your paperwork.
Missing your notice? Visit the county office with your case number, if available, and ask for help obtaining your renewal paperwork and confirming your deadline.
-
2
Gather your documents
Use the checklist in your renewal notice. Depending on what the county requests, your paperwork may include:
Renewal notice and forms
Your recertification packet and case number.
Updated income documents
Recent paystubs or other requested income verification.
Household and address information
Requested identification, proof of residence, and information about changes in your household.
Work, school, and child care details
Current schedules and any requested provider information.
Tell the county about changes relevant to your case and complete all requested signatures.
-
3
Our recommendation: visit in person
Visit the county office and submit your renewal
Bring your renewal forms and supporting documents to the Erie County Day Care Unit. Ask for guidance with any questions and submit your paperwork by the deadline shown in your notice.
Keep copies of what you submit and ask for confirmation that your paperwork was received.
-
4
Review the county’s renewal decision
Provide any additional information the county requests. When you receive a decision, review your approved dates, child care schedule, and any family share copay.
Submitting renewal paperwork does not by itself confirm continued coverage. Follow the county’s notice and ask the county about any gap in authorization.
Let Little Angels know about changes to your approved care. For enrollment or scheduling questions, reach us at (716) 896-2330.
Optional: watch the overview
View the child care assistance video for an introduction to the program.
Unable to visit in person?
Follow the submission instructions in your renewal notice. Use the mailing address or other submission method specified for your case.
Has your assistance already ended?
Ask the county whether you need to complete a renewal or submit a new application. Bring any closing notice and your case number when you visit.
