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1. Is there a waitlist for the child care program?

It is possible that a waitlist may be necessary when maximum enrollment in the program is reached. You may call (903) 794-8999 or (800) 874-3226 to find out whether a waitlist is currently in place.

2. How long will it take to begin the child care program?

As long as there is no waiting list in place, you may begin the program after all required documentation has been received and you are determined to be eligible for the program. Once you have returned your eligibility packet and documentation, it could take up to 20 days to determine your eligibility.

If there is a waiting list, children will be placed from the waiting list as space becomes available.

3. How is attendance tracked and payments to the provider handled?

All clients are required to notify their child care provider any time a child will be absent. The child care provider is required to report to Workforce Solutions Northeast Texas when a child is absent 5 consecutive days. (i.e. Monday - Friday; Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Monday, Tuesday). The Provider will be paid based on the days of care you are authorized based on schedule and needs. Every time the child care provider reports your child(ren) absent will count against the total number of absences allowed within your 12-month period. Workforce Solutions Northeast Texas will pay the child care provider every other week for your child(ren)'s care. You will be required to pay a portion of your child care cost, called a parent share of cost, to the child care provider.

4. Why must I pay my parent share of cost when my child is absent?

This assures the provider will reserve a place for your child while he/she is absent. Children are allowed 40 absences within their 12-month eligibility period.

5. What income do I report when applying or recertifying for child care?

You should report the gross monthly income before deductions for all working family members. Wages or salaries, commissions, tips, piece-rate payment and cash bonuses earned must be reported. Overtime pay is estimated based on the person’s history of receiving this pay. If you have more than one job, make sure to report gross income from each of your employers. Other income that must be reported includes SSDI, alimony, taxable capital gains, rent income, income from estates, pensions, annuities, and retirement income. Ask a child care representative about any regular income you receive to see if it must be included in your gross monthly income.

6. How long does my eligibility for child care continue?

You will be given a 12 month eligibility period. If your experience a permanent loss in work or training or your family income has exceed the 85% SMI, you will need to contact our office within 14 days of the change.