We are also proud to be an approved child care provider for families receiving subsidies. If you’re eligible for CCAP, your child will benefit from our nurturing, development-focused environment without straining your budget.

How to Determine if Your Client can Qualify for New Jersey’s Child Care Assistance Program

New Jersey offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) to help income-eligible families afford quality child care. If you’re exploring daycare options and wondering if you qualify for this program, here’s what you need to know.

What is the Child Care Assistance Program?

The CCAP is a state-funded initiative administered by the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Division of Family Development (DHS/DFD). The program aims to provide financial support to families who are working, attending school, or participating in job training, making high-quality child care accessible and affordable.

Who is Eligible for the Program?

Eligibility is determined by a combination of factors, including residency, income, employment, and the age of your child.

1. Residency Requirements:

• You must be a resident of New Jersey.

2. Income Guidelines:

• Families must meet specific income limits based on household size. For example, a family of four with an annual income of up to $78,882 may qualify.

• Total family assets must not exceed $1 million.

3. Work or Education Status:

• Parents or guardians must be employed full-time (30+ hours per week), enrolled full-time in school (12+ credits), or participating in job training for at least 20 hours per week.

4. Child’s Eligibility:

• Assistance is available for children up to age 13.

• Children aged 13-19 with special needs or protective supervision may also qualify.

5. Citizenship Status:

• The child must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen living with the applicant.

How to Apply for Child Care Assistance

Getting started with CCAP is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to apply:

1. Gather Necessary Documents:

• Proof of income (e.g., pay stubs, tax returns).

• Employment verification or enrollment in school/training.

• Proof of residency.

• Identification for all household members.

2. Contact Your Local CCR&R Agency:

• Each county has a Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency to help guide you through the application process. You can find your local agency on the Child Care In New Jersey website.

3. Submit Your Application:

• Applications and required documentation must be submitted to your local CCR&R agency. Processing may take up to 30 days.

What Does the Program Cover?

The CCAP helps subsidize the cost of daycare services, ensuring families can choose from licensed child care centers, registered family child care providers, or even approved in-home care providers. Eligible families may need to contribute a small copayment based on their income and family size.

Special Considerations

• Homeless Families: Families experiencing homelessness can still apply, even if they don’t have all the required documentation at the time of submission. They are granted a six-month window to provide the necessary paperwork.

• Temporary Suspension of Copayments: During certain emergencies or special circumstances, copayment requirements may be temporarily waived.

Take the First Step Today

If you think your potential customer might qualify for the New Jersey Child Care Assistance Program, don’t wait! Start the application process today and take a step closer to providing your child with a safe and enriching learning experience. Visit Child Care In New Jersey or contact your local CCR&R agency for more information.

Have questions? Reach out to us at  for assistance. We’re here to help make quality child care affordable and accessible for every family.