CCDF Child Care Subsidies (Child Care and Development Fund)

Federal-state program providing child care subsidies (vouchers or direct payments) for low-income working parents and kinship caregivers raising children. Covers child care costs so parents can work, attend school, or participate in job training. Kinship caregivers (grandparents, relatives) raising children in their care can access CCDF subsidies in all states. License-exempt relative care providers (e.g., a grandmother caring for a grandchild while the parent works) can be paid through CCDF in many states. Copayment and eligibility rules changed significantly in May 2026.

Subsidizes child care costs through vouchers or direct provider payment for eligible families. Key points as of mid-2026: (1) Kinship caregivers (grandparents raising grandchildren) can use CCDF subsidies in all states; (2) In many states, a relative providing care (e.g., an aunt or grandmother) can be paid through CCDF as a license-exempt provider; (3) Copayment rules: the March 2024 rule capping copays at 7% of family income has been rescinded by ACF's May 2026 'Restoring Flexibility' rule (effective July 13, 2026) — states may still apply the 7% cap voluntarily; (4) Income eligibility typically up to 85% of state median income (maximum allowed by federal law); (5) Child must be under 13 (or under 19 if disabled); (6) Parent/caregiver must be working, in school, or in job training. Contact your state's CCDF agency for current copay schedules, provider lists, and application. In many states, there are waiting lists due to demand exceeding funding.

Some details for this program are still being verified. Check the official source for the most current information.

Services

Subsidizes child care costs through vouchers or direct provider payment for eligible families. Key points as of mid-2026: (1) Kinship caregivers (grandparents raising grandchildren) can use CCDF subsidies in all states; (2) In many states, a relative providing care (e.g., an aunt or grandmother) can be paid through CCDF as a license-exempt provider; (3) Copayment rules: the March 2024 rule capping copays at 7% of family income has been rescinded by ACF's May 2026 'Restoring Flexibility' rule (effective July 13, 2026) — states may still apply the 7% cap voluntarily; (4) Income eligibility typically up to 85% of state median income (maximum allowed by federal law); (5) Child must be under 13 (or under 19 if disabled); (6) Parent/caregiver must be working, in school, or in job training. Contact your state's CCDF agency for current copay schedules, provider lists, and application. In many states, there are waiting lists due to demand exceeding funding.

How to apply

Apply online or find more information at the official program page.