Navigating childcare expenses is one of the biggest priorities for families in British Columbia. Fortunately, the provincial government offers the Affordable Child Care Benefit (ACCB), a monthly financial contribution designed to help eligible families offset the cost of licensed childcare.
At Peek-A-Boo Childcare, both of our licensed centres in North Vancouver (Nancy Greene Way) and West Vancouver (Eyremount Dr) proudly participate in the provincial subsidy program. Below is our practical, step-by-step guide to understanding your eligibility and applying successfully.
What is the Affordable Child Care Benefit (ACCB)?
The Affordable Child Care Benefit is a monthly payment provided by the Province of British Columbia directly to your licensed childcare provider on your behalf. Depending on your household income, family size, and the type of care your child receives (e.g., licensed infant-toddler care vs. pre-kindergarten), the subsidy can cover a substantial portion of your monthly fees.
Who is Eligible?
To qualify for the ACCB, families generally must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: You must be a resident of British Columbia and a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person.
- Qualifying Reason for Care: At least one parent must have a qualifying reason, such as:
- Working or self-employed
- Attending school or vocational training
- Actively seeking employment
- Having a medical condition that affects your ability to care for your child
- Income Threshold: Generally, families earning up to $111,000 adjusted annual income may receive full or partial funding (thresholds vary based on family size and specific circumstances).
Key Forms You Will Need
Before you start your online or paper application, ensure you have the following essential paperwork downloaded and prepared:
- Child Care Arrangement Form (CF2798): This document verifies your enrolment at a licensed facility. We fill out the facility number, license details, and program schedule, and you sign your parental agreement.
- Affordable Child Care Benefit Application (CF2900): The primary provincial application form detailing family income, personal identification, and qualifying reasons.
You can download printable copies of both documents directly from our Parent Downloads Portal.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Reserve Your Child's Spot at Peek-A-Boo
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Step 2: Complete the Child Care Arrangement Form (CF2798) with Us
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Step 3: Gather Proof of Income & Personal ID
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Step 4: Submit Online via My Family Services Portal
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Step 5: Receive Approval Notification & Subsidy Remittance1. Reserve Your Childcare Space
Subsidy applications require an active childcare arrangement. Contact Fariba to confirm an available opening and agree on a desired start date.
2. We Complete the Provider Section
Bring or email your Child Care Arrangement Form (CF2798) to our management team. We complete the license number, monthly operating fees, and educator credentials within 24 to 48 hours.
3. Submit Through the Provincial Portal
The quickest way to receive your benefit confirmation is by applying online through the BC My Family Services portal. Upload your completed CF2798 along with proof of citizenship and income verification (such as your latest CRA Notice of Assessment).
4. Direct Deduction from Monthly Tuition
Once your subsidy approval letter is issued, the Ministry sends benefit payments directly to Peek-A-Boo Childcare each month, reducing your family’s out-of-pocket invoice accordingly.
We Are Here to Assist You
Navigating government paperwork can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time parents. Our centre manager, Fariba Bagheri, has guided dozens of North Shore families through this process and is always happy to assist with form completion and verification.
Feel free to call us directly at (778) 996-3643 or download the required forms on our Parents page.