How to Apply: Child Care Assistance Program

A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for CCAP in Louisiana.

What is a Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)?

CCAP helps low-income families in Louisiana pay for child care so parents can work, go to school, or get training. It helps families with children under 13—or under 18 if the child has disabilities—cover part of the cost of child care.

How do I apply for CCAP?

You can apply in four ways:

Online (fastest): Use the Louisiana CAFÉ Customer Portal → Apply for CCAP online

Mail: Send a paper application to:Department of EducationCCAP Household EligibilityP.O. Box 260037Baton Rouge, LA 70826

Fax: Fax your application to 225‑376‑6060.

In person: Ask a local library or community center to help you get an application.

How long does it take to receive funds?

You’ll be told if you're eligible within 30 days of submitting your application. You’ll also get a letter that says when payments to your child care provider will start.

What do the application steps look like?

Fill out your application (online or paper).

Gather paperwork: check stubs, IDs, school letter, birth certificates, etc. Upload or include them.

Submit everything online or by mail/fax.

Caseworker reviews your application. They may ask for more papers.

If files are missing, your application may go on hold or you may reapply.

If eligible, you'll be either:

Certified and placed on a wait list (if funds aren’t available yet)

Or approved and you can start sending your child to a CCAP provider

You must check your child in daily using KinderConnect once funds begin.

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

Child’s Age / Relationship

Birth certificate

Hospital records or baptismal record

Immunizations

Shot records, appointment card, or doctor/pharmacy note

Income

Up to 4 recent check stubs (within 45 days)

Unearned income (e.g., SSI, child support, unemployment award letter)

If self‑employed: tax returns or sales/personal wage records

School / Job Training

Letter or schedule from school saying you're full‑time or at least 20 hrs/week

If job hunting, screenshot from HiRE showing your activity

Special Needs / Disability

IEP/IFSP document or doctor's statement

Identity / Citizenship

Photo ID, voter registration, passport, or military ID

Birth certificates for all children

Social Security cards (optional but useful)

Common FAQ’s

Can I apply if I'm job hunting?Yes, you can get up to 90 days of help while looking if you meet other rules.

Do I need full-time school or work?Yes, adults must work or go to school at least 20 hours per week.

What if my family is homeless?Homeless families have 90 days to give proof, then can be approved.

When can my child start care?You and the provider start care after you get the approval letter with dates and payment info.

What if I pick a provider after applying?You must choose a CCAP‑approved provider before you get certified. Otherwise, your application won’t go through.

Who do I contact about my application status?

Phone: 1‑877‑453‑2721

Email: LDECCAP@la.gov

Fax: 225‑376‑6060

Mailing address:Department of EducationCCAP Household EligibilityP.O. Box 260037Baton Rouge, LA 70826

Last updated June 25, 2025