Made Simpler.
The Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) can help eligible families pay for child care while parents work, attend school, or participate in approved training programs.
We help you understand the process, prepare the required information, and complete your Illinois CCAP application with confidence.
guidance
jargon
The Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible Illinois families pay for child care while parents work, attend school, or participate in approved education or training programs.
For many families, reliable child care makes it possible to keep a job, continue their education, or pursue new career opportunities. CCAP helps make quality child care more affordable by covering part of the cost for eligible households.
Depending on your family’s circumstances, assistance may be available for infants, toddlers, preschool-age children, and school-age children who need care before or after school, during school breaks, or throughout the summer.
The Illinois Child Care Assistance Program is administered by the State of Illinois. Eligibility is based on several factors, including household income, family size, employment or school status, and the age of each child.
Child Care Options
That Fit Your Family.
Every family’s child care needs are different. Illinois CCAP may help cover the cost of a variety of child care options, depending on your eligibility and the provider you choose.
Child Care Homes
After-School Care
Child Care
Co-Payments
Check Your Eligibility & Estimate Your Co-Pay →
Your content goes here. Edit or remove this text inline or in the module Content settings. You can also style every aspect of this content in the module Design settings and even apply custom CSS to this text in the module Advanced settings.
Could Your Family
Be Eligible?
Every family’s situation is unique. Eligibility for the Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) depends on several factors, including household income, family size, employment or education status, and your child’s age.
Your family may qualify if one or more of the following applies:
- You work full-time or part-time.
- You’re attending college or vocational school.
- You’re participating in an approved education or training program.
- You recently started a new job.
- You need child care while working or studying.
- Your household may meet current Illinois income guidelines.
Not sure if you qualify? It’s still worth exploring your options. Many families are surprised to learn they may be eligible for assistance.
Getting Ready
To Apply.
Every family’s situation is different. We’ll help you understand what information may apply before you begin your application.
We Guide You,
Step By Step.
Understand Your Situation
Every family is different. We help you understand how the Illinois CCAP works and what may apply to your family’s circumstances.
Prepare Your Information
We’ll help you understand what documents and information may be needed so you can feel more prepared before starting your application.
Complete Your Application
We guide you through the application step by step, helping you understand each section and answer questions with greater confidence.
Understand What Comes Next
Submitting an application is only one step. We help you understand what happens next and any additional steps that may be required.
Common Questions
About CCAP.
Who can apply for Illinois CCAP?
Illinois CCAP is available to eligible families who need child care while working, attending school, or participating in an approved education or training program. Eligibility depends on factors such as household income, family size, employment or school status, and your child’s age.
How do I apply for Illinois CCAP?
You can apply for the Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) by completing an application and providing the required information and documentation. The exact requirements may vary depending on your family’s circumstances. We help you understand the application process, prepare the necessary information, and guide you through each step before you submit your application.
What documents do I need to apply for Illinois CCAP?
The required documents vary by family, but commonly include identification, proof of income, employment or school information, and details about your child and child care provider. We help you understand what may apply to your situation before you begin.
Can I apply for CCAP before choosing a child care provider?
Not always. However, if you’ve already selected a provider, you may be asked to provide information about them during the application process. We can help you understand when this information is needed.
Does Illinois CCAP cover the full cost of child care?
Not necessarily. Some families may be responsible for a monthly parent co-payment based on their household income and family circumstances. The amount varies from family to family.
How do I know if I qualify for Illinois CCAP?
Many families aren’t sure at first. Learning more about the program is often the best place to start. We help you understand the eligibility requirements and the application process so you can make informed decisions before applying.
Not Sure
Where To Start?
Applying for the CCAP can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where to begin. We’re here to help you understand the process, prepare the information you may need, and move forward with greater confidence – one step at a time.