You can take steps when the government denies or changes your benefits.
When you apply for child care help in NYC or in New York State, the Administration for Children's Services (ACS) or the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) decides if you qualify. If they denied your application, they send a letter to explain.
You can ask for a Fair Hearing to review the decision. That is a meeting at the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA). They can decide if you qualify for child care help.
Learn more about how to ask and get ready for a Fair Hearing.
Last Reviewed: January 7, 2026