Kentucky Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
Last updated August 2026
The Child Care Assistance Program, CCAP, helps eligible Kentucky families pay for child care so a parent can work or train. Apply by phone at 855-306-8959 or online at kynect.ky.gov, and you can check likely eligibility first with the online Prescreening Tool before you commit to a full application.
The rules live in state regulation. Income limits and co-pay tiers are set in 922 KAR 2:160 by family size and income before taxes, so the Prescreening Tool is the fastest way to gauge whether you fit before applying.
Approved families pay a co-pay, a portion of the state rate based on income before taxes and family size. The state pays providers up to a daily maximum set in the Kentucky Child Care Maximum Payment Rate Chart. If tuition runs above that rate plus your co-pay, the leftover, called an overage, may fall to you, so ask your provider up front.
One fairness protection is worth knowing: a CCAP family cannot be charged more or less tuition than private-pay families at the same provider. If your tuition differs, you can report it to the Division of Regulated Child Care.
CCAP usually does not cover extra provider fees, but there is an exception. Enrollment fees can be paid for K-TAP or child-protection cases, once per 12 months and capped at $100 per family per year. Ask whether your case qualifies.
Keep the agency informed. You must report changes that affect benefits, like income, household size, or address, and failing to report can be treated as fraud. Free interpreter services are available at 866-291-8931, and other help at 855-306-8959.
Phone 1-855-306-8959
Hours Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm ET
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Low-income families with a working parent, a parent in a certified trade school, college, or the SNAP Employment and Training program, or a K-TAP family in Kentucky Works
- Eligibility is based on your family's gross monthly income and household size, set in Kentucky regulation 922 KAR 2:160
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Check the online Prescreening Tool, then apply at kynect.ky.gov or call 855-306-8959.
- 2
Review the co-pay and payment-rate rules so you understand any overage.
- 3
If you have a K-TAP or child-protection case, ask about the enrollment-fee coverage.
- 4
Report any change in income, household size, or address promptly.
What to have ready
- ID and Social Security numbers for the household
- Proof of income before taxes and your work or training schedule
- Your child's information and chosen provider. DCBS confirms the full list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
Who qualifies for child care assistance?
Low-income Kentucky families with a working parent, a parent in school or training, or a K-TAP family, within the income limits set in regulation 922 KAR 2:160.
Do I have to pay anything?
Approved families pay a co-pay based on income before taxes and family size. If tuition exceeds the state rate plus your co-pay, the overage may fall to you.
Can I be charged more than other families?
No. A CCAP family cannot be charged more or less tuition than private-pay families at the same provider. Report differences to the Division of Regulated Child Care.
How do I apply?
By phone at 855-306-8959 or online at kynect.ky.gov. Check the Prescreening Tool first to gauge eligibility.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
See all Kentucky programs →Free · Private · No account needed