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THE PURCHASE OF CHILD CARE PROGRAM
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The Purchase of Care program has been administered by this Department for many years. One of the reasons for this program's growth is the department’s ability to assist families who are not receiving financial assistance (TCA). Working families can now receive assistance with childcare costs. Families must meet income guidelines, and based on their income, pay a portion of the cost of care to the provider; the State makes up the difference. Another reason for growth in the program has been welfare reform activities. Families receiving TCA are required to participate in employment search activities. Effectively assisting families with childcare has been one of the reasons for Frederick County’s successful program.
FAQ
- Am I eligible for POC? (request for telephone screening)
- How much money will I get?
- How much money will my provider get?
- What verifications do I need to get vouchers?
- What other programs are available to help with the cost of child care?
- Do you have a list of providers who accept vouchers?
- When will I get paid?
- Can you mail me an application?
- Can I fax my application back to you?
- How do I change providers?
- How can I verify that I am receiving child support? What documentation do you need for child support?
- What are “non-traditional” hours?
1. Am I eligible for POC? (request for telephone screening)
POC is based on income and family size. In order to determine eligibility, you must submit an application.
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2. How much money will I get?
The amount of the POC subsidy you receive is based on several factors: your income, the number and ages of your children, the number of hours of care, and the type of care you choose. The amount of your subsidy is clearly stated on the voucher.
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3. How much money will my provider get?
The amount of the POC subsidy paid to your provider is based on several factors: the rate your provider normally charges for care, the type of care (formal vs. informal, center vs. home care), and the amount of your subsidy. The amount your provider will receive is clearly stated on the voucher.
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4. What verifications do I need to get vouchers?
- Proof of income from all sources for the past 30 days. This includes pay stubs, child support, Social Security benefits.
- Proof that you are pursuing child support if both parents do not live in the household.
- Confirmation of your work schedule.
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5. What other programs are available to help with the cost of child care?
In addition to the Purchase of Care (POC) program, FCDSS has additional funds available through the Work Care II program. Work Care II is funded by the County Commissioners and is available on a first come/first serve basis to families whose income is too high for the POC program. Work Care II is for working families who use licensed child care.
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6. Do you have a list of providers who accept vouchers?
No, we cannot recommend a provider. However, you can call Child Care Choices at 301-600-2687 for a list of licensed child care providers in your area.
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7. When will I get paid?
Invoices are generated every two weeks and are sent directly to the Provider to complete and return.
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8. Can you mail me an application?
Yes. Please call 301-600-2687 to have an application mailed to you.
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9. Can I fax my application back to you?
No, we cannot accept faxed applications. However, you can return your application by mail or drop it off at our offices between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
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10. How do I change providers?
Providers must be given 5 working day’s notice that you intend to change providers. Please call the office at least 5 days in advance so we can send the notice to your provider. We will then expire your current vouchers effective the last day you will be taking your child to that provider. We will issue new vouchers you can take to the new provider.
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11. How can I verify that I am receiving child support? What documentation do you need for child support?
If you have applied for Child Support Enforcement services through FCDSS (or any other state child support office), we can verify the status of your case. If you have a child support order payable directly to you, we will need a copy of your order and a written statement of the child support you receive. We will provide you with the necessary forms.
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12. What are “non-traditional” hours?
Non-traditional hours are from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. and Saturdays and Sundays.
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