How to Apply For Child Care
Applicants are required to participate in an approved activity like work (full or part time), school or a qualifying training program.
Applying for child care services through Richland County Job & Family Services requires you to complete both an application and to submit verification documents. Please read the following information carefully to ensure your application is processed as quickly as possible. Please note it may take up to 30 days to complete your application. We complete cases in the order they are received and when all verification documents have been received.
Note: If you are completing an annual redetermination of Child Care benefits and have misplaced the application mailed to you, or never received your application, please complete the Redetermination Application and return it with current verification documents before the annual review deadline. If you missed your annual review deadline, please follow the instructions below to apply for services.
Step 1: Complete the Child Care Application Packet
You may apply online at https://benefits.ohio.gov/ or complete the application below and return to hold the application date.
You may also need to submit the following documents depending on circumstances:
- Proof of all income (employment, child support, disability, unemployment, etc)
- Birth Certificates for all children needing care
- Official school schedule
Step 2: Return the packet the following ways:
Email to: Richland-Documents@jfs.ohio.gov
Fax to: 419-774-0051
You may also return the packet by mail or in-person to:
Richland County Job & Family Services
Attn: Child Care
171 Park Ave East
Mansfield, OH 44902
Step 3: Supply any additional information requested
When you apply for child care services, you may not have submitted enough information to complete the application. A caseworker will be in touch with you to ask for additional documentation. You must supply that information to Child Care within 30 days or your application will be denied.
A denial notice officially informs you that you are NOT eligible for the program. An approval notice informs you that you are eligible for the program.
Fax: 419-774-0051
8:00am‑4:00pm
8:00am - 3:30pm
Richland-ContactUs@jfs.ohio.gov
