Family FAQs
Changing Systems
- What is the process for families to register in the new parent portal?
Families will receive a parent key that allows them to link their case to their account when they log into the Parent Portal and view their voucher information. They will access the new portal by logging into Access Indiana at https://access.in.gov/client/signin/ Once logged in, they will select the tile labeled “Child Care Portal.” The new portal will allow them to access voucher information and view absences.
- When will families stop swiping for attendance?
The last day that families will swipe will be July 13.
Parent Portal
- How do families access the new parent portal?
Families will receive a parent key that allows them to link their case to their account when they log into the portal and view their voucher information. They will access the new portal by logging into Access Indiana at https://access.in.gov/client/signin/. Once logged in, they will select the “child care portal” tile.
- What can families do in the new parent portal?
The new portal will allow families to access their voucher information and view absences.
- What is a parent key and what do families do with it?
Families will receive a parent key that allows them to link their case when they log into the portal. This gives families access to their voucher information. Families only need to use this key one time to ensure they are securely connecting to the new portal.
- If a parent does not have an Access Indiana account, how do they log in?
Parents can create an Access Indiana account at https://access.in.gov/client/signup/.
- If a parent forgets their Access Indiana username or password, how do they log in?
A parent’s username is their email address. Their password can be reset by selecting the ‘forgot password’ link after entering their email address.
- How many absences are children allowed?
Children are allowed a total of 45 absences per enrollment year across all providers.
- How will a family know how many absences a child has had?
Providers and families will receive notices at 10, 20, 30, and 40 days before the vouchers are terminated after 45 days. Parents will also be able to view the count of absences in the portal.
- Where do parents approve personal days?
Children will no longer receive personal days with the new system. They are allowed up to 45 absences and will not need to use personal days when they are absent.
- How does the state calculate the number of absences I have at the start of the new system?
Every child will start on the new system with zero (0) absences. Personal days that have been used in the old system will not be moved to the new system.
- Where can a parent see their child(ren)’s absences?
Absences can be viewed on the portal.
- What information does a parent need to link their case in the parent portal?
To link a case, families will need their Case Number, Applicant Last Name, Applicant Date of Birth, and the unique parent key.
- Do families have to link their case(s) each time they visit the parent portal?
No, families only have to link their case(s) the first time they visit the portal.
- If a case has a co-applicant, how do they access case information in the parent portal?
Only applicants have access to case information in the portal.
- What is excessive absence?
Children are allowed up to 45 absences per enrollment year, across all providers, before their voucher is terminated for excessive absences. Families must wait 90 days to reapply for vouchers for a child that was terminated due to excessive absences.
- If a child has an approved medical reason for being absent, does it still count toward the excessive absence policy?
If a family provides documentation of a child’s serious medical condition or hospitalization, they can be approved for additional absence days if needed. This process is conducted on a case-by-case basis.
- What should families do with their swipe cards since they will no longer be used?
After providers change to the new enrollment-based system, families will no longer need to use a swipe card. These cards can be destroyed.