Eligibility CCAP
The Illinois Department of Human Services funds the Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) and assists low-income parents with child care payments. Income categories per family size determine eligibility for CCAP. Undergrad students with no/low income pursuing a 4-year college degree are also eligible.
Eligibility Criteria Heading link
Child care assistance may be available if you meet income requirements and:
- Live in Illinois
- Have a child or children under the age of 13, AND
- Are working, OR
- Are looking for work or school, OR
- Receive TANF and are in an education training, or other work activity approved by your caseworker, OR
- Are attending education or training activities including ESL, high school equivalence, GED, vocational training, and 2- and 4-year college degree programs.
For more information see the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) Policy Manual through the Illinois Department of Human Services
How to Apply Heading link
- Determine if you meet the current income requirements for eligibility. CCAP Eligibility Calculator
- Contact your local CCR&R agency to assist with finding quality child care and get consultation on how to submit your application. Find Your Local CCR&R
- Download and complete the CCAP application. Complete the parent portion and have selected child care center complete their portion during enrollment process.
- Then submit it to your local CCR&R.
Continuation Heading link
Things to Know:
- All applications must go through your local CCR&R.
- Respond timely and keep records.
- You can be approved for full-time, part-time, or before and after school care.
- All families approved for CCAP are responsible for their co-pays, fees, and additional costs the providers charge.