FAQ
USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program
What is the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program?
The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) program that provides financial reimbursement to Licensed Family Child Care Providers for serving nutritious meals and snacks to children in their care. It is an extension of the National School Lunch Act. The CACFP benefits Providers by providing them with nutrition training and monetary reimbursement to help defray food costs. Children benefit by receiving nutritious meals and snacks while they are in family child care.
There is no cost to the Provider to join the CACFP.
In Minnesota, the CACFP is administered by the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) and a nonprofit sponsoring organization. To obtain information on the USDA Child & Adult Care Food Program, contact Adults & Childrens Alliance.
Purchasing An Insurance Policy
Why does a Provider who operates a Family Child Care business need Liability & Accident insurance?
First and foremost, it is important to remember a Provider is operating a business in their home. Children are “in training” and as they grow and develop, they fall or may pinch a finger which needs medical attention. Accidents do occur and accident insurance provides you with coverage that may help to pay the medical bills. At times, the accidents result in injuries which harm a child, and a parent may sue for damages. General liability insurance can help protect your business if a lawsuit is filed. Many general liability insurance carriers require business owners to maintain separate accident insurance. The Assure Child Care program offers access to general liability insurance and accident insurance in a combined offering. Protect your business, the children you care for, and your own family by purchasing accident and liability insurance.
What is the advantage of a Group Insurance Program like the one available through Assure Child Care and the Adults & Children’s Risk Purchasing Group, Inc. membership?
A Group Liability policy is available to Members of the Adults & Children’s Risk Purchasing Group, Inc. Group policies are often designed to meet the unique needs of the group policyholder, in this case, child care providers, so they may provide broader coverage than individual policies. Group policies can also be more affordable for group members than purchasing similar coverage individually. Child Care Providers gain stability as the entire membership of the Adults & Children’s Risk Purchasing Group, Inc. is part of the group. The Assure Child Care Program also allows each Provider to select their desired limits of coverage, and the effective date of their policies.
Do I need Workers Compensation Insurance if I hire an employee occasionally?
While there are differences from state to state, almost all employers must carry this insurance. It provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries and illnesses. To find out the details of your state’s law, contact your Child Care Licensing Specialist and the state department of workers compensation.
What is the difference between an occurrence and a claims made policy?
An “occurrence” policy is best for Family Child Care because it covers claims reported after the policy expires. As long as the incident occurred while a policy was in effect, the coverage is still available to respond to the loss. A “claims made” policy only covers a claim reported during a specified time, usually during the policy term.
Allegations and claims can be made against a Provider years after the injury and after a child has left care or even after a Provider goes out of the business.
To gain the most protection for your Child Care business, purchase an occurrence policy.
The policy which Assure Child Care offers is an “occurrence” policy.
Who is A.M. Best and what does the rating mean?
The liability carrier which Assure Child Care uses, Philadelphia Indemnity Insurance Company is rated “A++” by A.M. Best which is the highest rating given. The Accident Carriers: StarNet Insurance Company and Berkley Life & Health Insurance Company are both rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best.
General Questions
What date will my insurance policy go into effect?
Coverage may begin the day we receive a complete application and at least the minimum amount of payment. The annual membership must be paid in order to begin coverage.
May I pay off my policy any time if I decide to make installments instead of paying the full premium?
Yes. You must pay at least the minimum amount due by the due date in order to keep a policy in effect. You may pay off the premium any time or pay more with each payment so the policy is paid off earlier.
What is Assure Child Care’s Cancellation Policy?
Cancellations are granted on a case by case basis and calculated based on the date of cancellation. Please call Customer Service in order to inquire as to the process and applicable refund.
If I need to add my landlord or an additional insured to my policy is there an additional fee to do so?
No, there is no added cost to add an additional insured to the policy.
Is there coverage if my pet hurts a child in my care?
Yes, if the animal is permitted under licensing regulations and the Provider is following the regulations there is coverage if an animal injures a child.
Are injuries which occur as a result of a swimming pool (above ground and in-ground) covered?
There are no exclusions under the policy for pools. However, coverage is subject to all the terms and conditions stated in the policy.