Child care assistance helps families with low income pay for child care so parents can work, look for work, or go to school or training.
How it's run
Run by each state
State guides
0 of 51
Type of help
voucher
About Child Care Aid
What is Child Care Assistance?
Child Care Assistance, officially called the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), helps low-income families pay for child care. The money goes toward costs so a parent can work, look for work, or attend school or job training. Each state runs its own program and decides who qualifies and how much help you get.
Child Care Assistance is a voucher program. That means the state pays a provider you choose, rather than giving you cash to spend.
Who Qualifies
Rules vary by state. In general, you may qualify if:
Your income is low enough. Federal law says states cannot serve families earning more than 85% of the state median income, but your state's limit may be lower.
You have a child under age 13 (or older if the child has special needs).
You are working, looking for work, or in school or training to get a job.
You are a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant.
Each state sets its own income limit, so what qualifies in one state may not in another. Check your state's program page to learn the exact rules and limits that apply to you.
How Much Help You Get
The amount varies widely by state. Most families pay a copayment (a share of the cost), and the state covers the rest up to a set amount. Your copayment is usually based on your income and family size.
States also set their own payment rates to child care providers, so the total benefit depends on:
Your state's program rules.
Your income and family size.
The type of child care you choose.
How many children you need care for.
Your state program page will explain the specific costs you may face.
What Providers You Can Use
You can usually choose a licensed child care provider or other eligible provider. Licensed providers (like day care centers or family child care homes) must meet your state's standards. Some states also allow relatives or other providers to participate.
Your state decides which providers are eligible. Ask your state program office or check your state page for a list.
How to Apply
Applying is free. Here are the general steps:
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Step 1: Find your state programUse our state pages (linked below) to get the right contact information and application process for where you live.
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Step 2: Get an applicationYou can usually apply online, by mail, or in person. Your state program office will tell you how.
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Step 3: Fill it outBe ready to provide information about your income, family size, work or school schedule, and child care needs.
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Step 4: Submit proofYou will likely need to show documents to verify what you said on the form (see the section below).
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Step 5: Wait for a decisionYour state will review your application and tell you if you qualify. This takes a few weeks in most states.
Applying is free. Only your state agency decides if you qualify.
What Documents You May Need
Bring or send copies of documents that prove:
IncomeRecent pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer.
IdentityYour driver's license, state ID, or passport.
ResidencyA utility bill, lease, or other proof you live in the state.
Work or schoolA letter from your employer, school, or training program.
Child care costsQuotes or invoices from providers you plan to use.
Citizenship or immigration statusA birth certificate, green card, or other proof.
Your state may ask for other documents. Check your state page or the application form to see exactly what you need.
What Happens After You Apply
Your state will send you a notice saying whether you qualify. If you do:
You will get details about your copayment and how the voucher works.
Your state will tell you which providers are approved.
You can start using child care once your voucher is active.
The state pays the provider directly; you pay your copayment.
If you do not qualify, the notice will explain why. You can usually ask for a review or reapply later if your situation changes.
Keeping Your Benefits and Renewals
Your Child Care Assistance does not last forever. You will need to renew it on a schedule your state sets—usually every 12 months.
To keep your benefits:
Report changes in your income, job, or family size right away.
Recertify (prove your eligibility again) by the deadline your state gives you.
Keep paying your copayment on time to your provider.
If you miss a renewal deadline or your income goes too high, your assistance may stop. Your state will send you notice before that happens.
Related Help
If you need child care help, you may also qualify for:
Tax creditsThe Dependent Care Credit or Child Tax Credit can help pay for child care costs when you file your taxes.
Head StartFree or low-cost preschool and child development services for low-income families.
Work supportsSNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), and other programs that help you work.
Use our benefits screener to see what other help you may qualify for.
Find Your State Program
Since each state runs its own Child Care Assistance program, the rules, income limits, and application process are different where you live. Find your state below to learn how to apply and what you need:
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 21, 2026 · 3 min read
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