Resources for Bronx families
ACS & HRA Child Care Vouchers
Help paying for childcare starts with the right application. Here are the official NYC resources for families in Soundview and across the Bronx.
ACS: start with MyCity
For families seeking low-income child care assistance outside an active Cash Assistance case, NYC directs applications to MyCity. Eligibility depends on family size, residency, income and an approved reason for care—not just your income.
- Read the ACS eligibility and waitlist guidance before applying.
- Use MyCity to check your options, apply and upload the documents requested for your situation.
- Follow your application status and any requests for additional information. If you already have a voucher, follow the recertification deadline in your notice.
Prefer a paper application? ACS provides application packages, instructions and a submission checklist. If you apply through MyCity, do not also send a paper application; ACS says this can slow processing.
HRA: use ACCESS HRA
Your next step depends on your Cash Assistance case. HRA provides separate instructions for active cases, recent applications and closed cases.
- Active Cash Assistance case: sign in to ACCESS HRA and connect your account to your case. Select “Request a CA Case Change or Emergency Grant,” then “Add or Change Child Care.”
- Recently applied for Cash Assistance: connect your account to your case and check “Appointments” for required next steps, including any Child Care Return Appointment.
- Not yet applied for Cash Assistance: select “Apply” in ACCESS HRA. HRA says the application includes options for recurring benefits, a One Shot Deal or child care benefits only. Review its instructions to choose the right option.
- Closed Cash Assistance case: read HRA’s instructions for your situation before submitting a new request.
Have your documents ready
ACS verifies eligibility using the documents you submit. Depending on your situation, you may be asked for proof of income, residency and your reason for care, such as work, education or training. Use the official checklist for the full requirements; do not send benefit documents or identification numbers through our daycare inquiry form.
For ACS application questions, the official ACCESS NYC voucher page lists the ACS CFWB Call Center at 212-835-7610. 212-835-7610
Common questions
Does a voucher cover all childcare costs?
ACCESS NYC says vouchers can cover some or all costs. Many families have an income-based family fee; some qualifying groups have no fee. Check your official benefit notice rather than assuming care is free.
Can I apply if I don’t receive Cash Assistance?
NYC directs low-income applications to MyCity. Its current funding notice says eligible new non-Cash-Assistance applicants are waitlisted. Check the official notice for updates and follow any invitation you receive.
Can Shiny Time approve my voucher?
No. ACS or HRA handles applications and eligibility. We can discuss our care options and availability, but you must apply through the official City process.
Can I ask about childcare while waiting?
Yes. You can ask us about care and availability while your application is pending. An inquiry does not reserve a seat or change your voucher status; private pay is also accepted.
This guide summarizes public NYC information, not a benefits determination. Rules, funding and application steps can change. The linked City pages and your official notices are the authority for your case.
Using a voucher at Shiny Time
Shiny Time Group Family Daycare accepts ACS vouchers, HRA vouchers and private pay. We offer full-time and part-time childcare for ages 6 weeks–12 years in Soundview, Bronx, including infant and toddler care. Tell us the care schedule you need and we’ll discuss availability and enrollment next steps.
A daycare inquiry is not a voucher application. NYC decides eligibility and benefit approval; Shiny Time does not issue vouchers or guarantee approval or an available seat.
Questions about a spot at Shiny Time?