Programs

Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) Provider Guide

Families you serve may be eligible for 3 months of Child Care Assistance.

A school teacher sits at a table with a small group of students as they play together with Play-Doh. The children are each dressed casually and are focused on creating with the Play-Doh.

Provider Submission Portal

As of March 28, parents and providers can electronically submit their CCAP paperwork through our New Document Submission Portals! This convenient service is available 24/7. 

Find CCAP Forms

Submit CCAP Forms

Overview of Eligibility

Encourage clients to apply for Initial Activity Search (IAS).

When can parents/guardians apply?

Through June 30, 2024, parents/guardians can request child care assistance for a 3-month Initial Activity Search (IAS) period to establish an eligible employment or education/training activity. They must meet all other CCAP (Child Care Assistance Program) eligibility requirements.

How long will parents/guardians receive assistance?

If parents/guardians become employed or enroll in an educational activity before the end of the 3 months and meet all other CCAP eligibility requirements, their eligibility will continue for the remaining 9 months of the initial 12-month eligibility period.

What do parents/guardians need to apply?

Parents/guardians need to submit documentation showing they are working or enrolled in school to extend their initial 3-month eligibility period.

A mother on a walk with her child and a baby in a baby shoulder sling.

Frequently Asked Questions about CCAP

No supporting documentation is needed.

Parents/guardians need to write on the application that they are looking for work or preparing to enroll in school.

Parents/guardians are eligible for assistance 5 days every week.

Coverage for non-school aged children not enrolled in school: 5 Full-Time days.

Coverage for school-aged Child: 5 Part-Time days from September through May. Full Time days during the summer months.

Parents/guardians are eligible for one Initial Activity Search during a 12-month period.

Yes, parents/guardians must report an activity after being approved for Initial Activity Search to continue for the remaining 9 months of the initial 12-month eligibility period.

Parents/guardians must report an activity after the initial 3-month approval to be eligible for the remaining 9 months of the initial 12-month eligibility period.

Parents/guardians can find copayment information by visiting:

Parent/Guardians Copayment Information

Parent/Guardians Copayment Information (Spanish)

Parents/guardians can check their payment status by visiting our DHS information page

Parents/guardians can find solutions by visiting our IDHS Information page

Get the IDHS information you need

Need help with CCAP?

Visit our CCAP Express page for all your CCAP needs!

View CCAP Express

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