Applying for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

Government ProgramsGuides
Written By Nicholas Gatorano

The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) in Illinois helps low-income families pay for child care so they can work, go to school, or participate in training programs. Below is a detailed guide on the eligibility criteria and application process for CCAP.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Child Care Assistance Program, an applicant must meet the following criteria:

  1. Residency: Must live in Illinois.

  2. Employment or Education: Must be employed and/or participating in an eligible educational activity such as high school, trade school, or undergraduate college.

  3. Child Age: Must have children younger than 13 years old who need care while the applicant is working or attending school. Children with documented special needs may be eligible up to the age of 19.

  4. Income Limits: Must have a family income below the allowable limits. For specific income limits based on family size, visit the CCAP Income Limits page.

  5. Complete Guidelines: A more complete explanation of CCAP eligibility can be found in the CCAP Policy Manual.

CCAP Family Eligibility Guidelines

CCAP Family Eligibility Guidelines

Family Size 225% FPL 275% FPL 85% SMI
2 3,433 4,196 4,921
3 4,318 5,278 6,079
4 5,203 6,359 7,237
5 6,088 7,441 8,395
6 6,973 8,523 9,553
7 7,858 9,604 9,770
8 8,743 9,987 9,987
9 9,628 10,204 10,204

How to Determine Eligibility

Only the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency or Site Provider can calculate the total monthly income used to determine eligibility for the program.

  • Find your local CCR&R agency: Use the CCR&R Finder or call 1-877-202-4453 (toll-free).

  • CCAP Eligibility Calculator: Use the CCAP Eligibility Calculator to get an estimated calculation of your eligibility.

Application Process

  1. Contact a Provider: Before you apply, find a child care provider who agrees to care for your children while your eligibility is being determined. The provider must decide whether to provide care before the case is approved and how or if to charge the parent during the eligibility determination period.

  2. Complete an Application: Obtain an application form from your local CCR&R agency or download it from the IDHS website.

  3. Submit Documentation: Provide the required documentation, including proof of income, residency, employment or educational activity, and child age.

  4. Await Determination: The CCR&R or Site Provider will calculate your total monthly income and determine your eligibility. You will be notified of the decision.

Related Information

  • Parent Co-Payment Rates: Information on co-payment rates for parents is available on the Parent Co-Payment Rates page.

  • Appealing a Decision: If you need to appeal a decision regarding your eligibility, you can find information on the Appealing a Decision page.

Assistance and Inquiries

If you have any questions about your eligibility or need help navigating the website, contact your local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency or call 1-877-202-4453 (toll-free).

This guide should help you understand the eligibility requirements and application process for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) in Illinois. For more detailed information, visit the official IDHS CCAP page.

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