Child Care Assistance in Illinois

The Child Care Assistance Program(CCAP) in Illinois is there to provide help paying for child care for low-income families.It strongly emphasizes that the program is to assist in-need, working families who are residents of Illinois. Families already receiving TANF are likely eligible for CCAP. Teen parents pursuing a high school degree are also good candidates. Not only does the program help parents find financial help and quality care, but it trains the care providers to ensure the best possible care is available. Staff members than track and analyze CCAP impact data to adjust necessary components to create the most effective system possible. To find out more, visit CCAP’s website.

How to get started:
To get started in the enrollment process, find the programs in your area by using the online Head Start Locator.

Many programs use the Federal Poverty Line as a guide for financial assistance with child care. If your annual income is at or below the poverty line, you may qualify for financial help. These are the guidelines:

• A family of 1 must make less than $11,490 per year.


• A family of 2 must make less than $15,510 per year.


• A family of 3 must make less than $19,530 per year.


• A family of 4 must make less than $23,550 per year.


• A family of 5 must make less than $27,570 per year.


• A family of 6 must make less than $31,590 per year.


• A family of 7 must make less than $35,610 per year.


• A family of 8 must make less than $39,630 per year.