Kentucky’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) can help pay for child care while you work, go to school, or take approved job training.
If you qualify, CCAP pays part of the cost directly to an approved child care provider. You may still need to pay a monthly copay.
You can apply through kynect Benefits or at your local Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office. Be ready to provide proof of income, identity, Kentucky residence, and your work, school, or training schedule.
Below, you can find information about eligibility, copays, renewals, and approved child care providers.
Key Takeaways
- Kentucky’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) can help pay for child care. Payments are made directly to approved child care providers.
- You may qualify if you live in Kentucky, meet income rules, and need child care so you can work, go to school, or attend job training.
- The amount CCAP pays depends on your child’s age, the hours of care needed, the type of provider, and where you live. You may need to pay part of the cost each month.
- You can apply through kynect Benefits or at a local Department for Community Based Services office. Be ready to provide proof of income, identity, Kentucky address, and work, school, or training.
- Use Kentucky’s child care search tools to find an approved provider. Ask the provider if they accept CCAP and have space available.
What Is Kentucky Daycare Assistance?
Kentucky daycare assistance helps eligible families pay for child care. It’s often called the Child Care Assistance Program, or CCAP.
The program may help if you work, go to school, take approved job training, or meet other requirements. It pays part of the cost directly to participating child care providers, which can lower what you pay out of pocket.
CCAP also helps families find licensed or regulated child care programs that meet state safety standards.
Who Qualifies for Kentucky CCAP?
You may qualify for Kentucky’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) if your family meets the income limits and you need child care so you can:
- Work
- Go to school
- Take approved job training
- Look for a job
You usually must live in Kentucky and apply through the state’s benefits system. Some families involved with child welfare or protective services may also qualify.
When you apply, you may need to provide proof of your household income, work or school schedule, and child care needs.
Kentucky CCAP Income Limits
Kentucky CCAP income limits are based on your household size and your total monthly income before taxes. The program looks at income such as wages, self-employment earnings, child support, and other payments.
Income limits can change, so check the current chart from the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services or contact your local office to find out the limit for your family.
Have recent pay stubs, benefit letters, and other income records ready when you apply. If your income changes, report it quickly. If you qualify, you may need to pay a copay, so it can help to plan for that cost in your budget.
Work, School, and Training Requirements
To qualify for Kentucky child care assistance, you usually need to be working, going to school, taking approved job training, or doing another approved activity. The child care hours you request should match the time you spend working, studying, or training.
- If you work day, evening, or weekend shifts, you may be able to get care during those hours.
- If you’re a student, you can request care for class time and related study time.
- Job training may qualify if it helps you find work or improve your job options.
- Some families may qualify through other approved activities or support services.
Choose a child care provider with hours that fit your schedule and a safe, consistent routine for your child.
Documents Needed for Kentucky CCAP
Before Kentucky reviews your child care assistance application, gather documents that show who’s in your household, your income, and why you need child care.
You may need:
- A photo ID
- Proof that you live in Kentucky
- Your child’s birth certificate or another document showing their age
- Social Security numbers, if available
- Recent pay stubs, a letter from your employer, benefit letters, or self-employment records
- Your work schedule, school schedule, or training enrollment records showing when you need child care
- Proof of child support you receive or pay, if applicable
Sending complete and up-to-date documents can help avoid delays and make sure your eligibility and child care costs are calculated correctly.
How to Apply for Kentucky CCAP
Once you have your documents ready, you can apply for Kentucky’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) in one of these ways:
- Apply online through kynect Benefits.
- Contact your local Department for Community Based Services office.
- Get help from a community partner.
Choose the option that works best for you. Fill out the application completely and make sure your information is accurate to avoid delays.
When you apply, you may need to provide:
- Your household income
- Information about your job, school, or training program
- Documents requested by the state
After you apply, check your mail, email, and kynect account for updates. Respond quickly if more information is needed, and renew your benefits on time.
CCAP may help you pay for child care while you work, attend school, or participate in training.
How to Find a CCAP Child Care Provider
To find a child care provider that accepts CCAP, look at Kentucky’s approved provider list for programs near your home, work, or school.
Before you choose a provider, call them to make sure they still accept CCAP and have an opening for your child. Provider participation and available spots can change.
If you need help finding a provider, contact your local Child Care Assistance Program office. They can help you understand your options and find child care in your area.
Search Approved Providers
Finding a Kentucky Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) provider starts with the state’s online child care search tools. You can search for licensed or certified child care programs by location, your child’s age, type of care, and other needs.
Use the filters to find providers that work with your family’s schedule, transportation needs, and your child’s needs. When you review results, compare details that may affect your daily routine and your child’s comfort.
- Child care centers, preschools, and family child care homes near you
- Openings for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, or school-age children
- Full-time, part-time, evening, or weekend care
- Program details, contact information, and hours of operation
Save providers you’re interested in. Then contact them directly to ask questions and schedule a visit.
Verify CCAP Participation
Not every licensed child care program accepts Kentucky’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). Before enrolling your child, contact each provider to make sure it accepts CCAP and has an open spot for a child receiving assistance.
Also check that the provider serves your child’s age group, offers the hours you need, and is in a location that works for your family. Even if you qualify for CCAP, not every child care program may be able to serve your child.
| What to check | Ask the provider | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| CCAP acceptance | “Do you accept CCAP?” | Makes sure the provider accepts CCAP payments. |
| Available space | “Do you have an open CCAP spot for my child?” | Helps you avoid waiting for an opening. |
| Care details | “Do you serve my child’s age group, and do your hours work for us?” | Makes sure the care fits your family’s needs. |
Contact Local Child Care Offices
Local child care offices can help you find licensed providers that accept Kentucky CCAP, especially if online lists don’t show open spots.
Call your local office and share your child’s age, needed schedule, transportation needs, and care preferences. Staff may be able to tell you about nearby programs, check whether they’re licensed, and suggest questions to ask during a visit.
- Ask which providers accept CCAP.
- Ask which programs have openings now.
- Check their hours, meals, transportation, and waitlist rules.
- Set up tours and look at the entrance, classrooms, and outdoor play areas.
Take notes after each call. This can help you compare your choices and find care that works for your family.
What Happens After You Apply for CCAP?
What Happens After You Apply for CCAP?
After you apply for Kentucky’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), the Department for Community Based Services will review your application. They will look at your:
- Household income
- Family size
- Work, training, or school activities
- Need for child care
They may ask you to send documents, such as proof of income, work hours, school enrollment, or your child’s information. Send any requested documents as soon as you can.
| Step | What you should do |
|---|---|
| Check for updates | Look for messages, mail, or phone calls from your local office. |
| Send documents | Provide any proof they ask for as quickly as possible. |
| Answer questions | Respond promptly if the office contacts you for more information. |
| Read the decision | Review the notice that tells you whether you were approved or denied. |
Keep copies of everything you send. Tell your local office if your income, job, school schedule, household, or child care needs change.
You can also ask your local office about your application status and possible wait times for funding. If you are approved, follow the instructions in your approval notice and keep your information up to date.
How Much Does Kentucky CCAP Pay?
If Kentucky approves your CCAP application, CCAP pays part of your child care costs directly to a participating child care provider.
The amount it pays depends on factors such as:
- Your child’s age — infant care usually costs more.
- The type of child care — rates may differ for child care centers and family child care homes.
- Where the provider is located in Kentucky.
- Whether your child needs full-time or part-time care.
- Your approved CCAP eligibility and care schedule.
Your provider can tell you whether they accept CCAP and whether CCAP’s payment amount will cover their full rate. You may need to pay the difference if the provider charges more than CCAP allows.
How Much Is Your Kentucky CCAP Copay?
Your Kentucky CCAP copay is the amount you may need to pay for child care each month after CCAP helps cover the cost. Kentucky uses your household size and income to decide your copay amount.
Some families have a $0 copay. Others pay a set monthly amount based on the state’s current copay chart. Your child care provider may collect the copay directly from you, so ask when and how payments are due.
CCAP usually pays the rest of the approved child care cost, subject to program rules and payment limits. Check your approval notice for your copay amount, when it starts, and other important details.
Changes You Must Report to Kentucky CCAP
Report changes to Kentucky CCAP as soon as they happen. This includes:
- Starting or losing a job
- Changes in work hours or pay
- Moving to a new address
- Someone moving into or out of your household
- Changes to your child care schedule
Reporting these changes helps CCAP review your eligibility, copay amount, and approved child care hours.
Household Income Changes
Kentucky’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) needs to know when your household income changes. A change in income may affect whether you still qualify for help or how much you pay for child care.
Report changes to your local office as soon as possible. Keep pay stubs and other records that show your income change.
Report changes such as:
- Starting a new job with different pay
- Working more or fewer hours
- Changes in overtime pay, tips, or commissions
- Getting a raise, bonus, or severance pay
- Losing a job or having your hours reduced
You can report changes through the Kentucky benefits portal or by contacting your local office. Reporting quickly can help prevent overpayments, unexpected bills, or a break in your child care assistance.
Address Or Household Updates
Address or Household Updates
Changes to your address or household may affect your Kentucky Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) benefits, eligibility, or family copayment.
Report changes as soon as possible, including:
- A new home or mailing address
- A new phone number
- Moving to a different county
- Someone moving into or out of your home
- Marriage or separation
- Pregnancy
- Changes in who lives with or cares for your child
Give the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services any documents they request. This helps keep your case information correct.
Do not wait to report a move. Important notices or renewal forms may be sent to your old address. Only report information related to your CCAP case.
Child Care Schedule Changes
Tell Kentucky CCAP as soon as possible when your child care schedule changes. Keeping your schedule up to date helps protect your benefits and makes sure your child care provider is paid correctly.
Contact your worker if any of these things change:
- Your job starts or ends, or your work hours change.
- Your school or training schedule changes.
- Your child begins care with a new provider or at a new location.
- Your child’s regular drop-off, clock-in, pickup, or clock-out times change.
Keep copies of your new schedule and any forms or notices you send.
You can report changes through your local DCBS office or another approved reporting method. Reporting quickly may help prevent payment problems, gaps in child care, or confusion about your benefits.
How to Renew Kentucky CCAP Benefits
To keep your Kentucky Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) benefits, you must renew them before your current approval period ends.
Watch for renewal notices from the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Complete the renewal by the deadline listed in the notice.
You may need to provide updated information about:
- Your household income
- Your job, school, or training program
- Your home address
- Your child care schedule
- Your child care provider
Send in any requested documents, such as pay stubs, work or school schedules, and other proof of eligibility, as soon as possible.
If you change child care providers, report the change right away. Make sure the new provider is approved or licensed to accept CCAP.
You may also need to complete an interview. If you miss a notice or need help with your renewal, contact your local Kentucky benefits office as soon as you can.
Other Kentucky Child Care Assistance Programs
In addition to CCAP, you may be able to get help from Head Start. Head Start offers free early learning programs and family support services.
You can also look for preschool programs in your area. Some communities use Preschool Development Grants to make high-quality preschool more available.
Local schools, community groups, and child care resource agencies may also help you find child care, scholarships, referrals, or other support.
Head Start Programs
Head Start offers free early learning, health, nutrition, and family support services for Kentucky children from families with low incomes. You can apply through a local agency. They’ll check whether your family qualifies and help you find a nearby classroom.
Head Start helps children get ready for school and can also help families with everyday needs. Families don’t pay tuition.
- Teachers help children build language, social, and early math skills.
- Health checks can find vision, hearing, or dental needs.
- Children get healthy meals and snacks.
- Family staff can help you set goals, find local resources, and stay involved in your child’s learning.
Preschool Development Grants
Preschool Development Grants help Kentucky improve early childhood programs for young children and families. These grants support planning, better program quality, and easier transitions into kindergarten.
The grants usually do not pay for your child’s preschool or daycare directly. However, they may help providers offer better services, train teachers, and make enrollment easier.
| Grant support | How it may help your family |
|---|---|
| Community needs reviews | Finds areas where more services are needed |
| Teacher training | Helps teachers provide better care and learning |
| Family support | Gives parents more information and help |
| Kindergarten preparation | Helps children get ready for school |
| Program coordination | Makes it easier to find and apply for services |
Ask your child’s provider if these grant-funded improvements affect local preschool or daycare options.
Local Community Resources
Local programs can help you find child care, parenting support, early learning, and emergency help when state benefits aren’t enough.
Your local Community Action Agency, Head Start program, or family resource center may help you understand child care options and find ways to pay for care. Ask about who can qualify, waitlists, transportation, and fees based on your income.
- Community Action Agencies may help with referrals, utility bills, and parenting classes.
- Head Start and Early Head Start offer free early learning programs for families who qualify.
- Family Resource and Youth Services Centers can connect you with support at your child’s school.
- United Way 211 can help you find food, housing, and crisis services.
Call before you go. Bring proof of income, and ask about application deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Grandparents Apply for Kentucky Daycare Assistance?
Yes. Grandparents may qualify for Kentucky child care assistance if they are the child’s main caregiver. Eligibility can depend on who has legal custody, whether the grandparent works or attends school, and the household income.
Contact your local Kentucky assistance office to find out what documents and requirements apply to your situation.
Does CCAP Cover Overnight or Weekend Child Care?
Yes. CCAP may help pay for child care at night or on weekends if you qualify and use an approved provider.
When you apply, you will need to show your work, school, or other approved activity schedule.
Can I Use CCAP for Summer Camp Programs?
You may be able to use CCAP to pay for summer camp if the camp is an approved CCAP provider and meets your child care needs. Check that you are eligible for CCAP, the camp has openings, its hours work for you, and it accepts CCAP payments.
What Happens if My Child Changes Child Care Providers?
If your child changes to a new child care provider, report the change as soon as possible. Your benefits may continue if the new provider is eligible, helping avoid gaps in care or payment delays.
Is Transportation to Child Care Covered by CCAP?
CCAP usually does not pay for transportation to child care. You will need to arrange your own ride.
If you have questions about transportation help or want to change child care providers, contact your local assistance office. They can explain what help may be available and update your case.
Conclusion
Kentucky daycare assistance can help lower the cost of child care while you work, go to school, or attend job training. Child care can take up a big part of a family’s budget, so CCAP may help you afford care without giving up other basic needs.
To avoid delays, keep your income, work, school, and household information up to date. If you do not qualify for CCAP, you may still be able to find help through local child care providers, Head Start, or other Kentucky assistance programs.