HomeChild CareKentuckyKentucky CCAP Program
How to Apply: Kentucky CCAP Program
Kentucky · 6 StepsKentucky families with kids under 13 (under 19 with special needs) and income at or below 85% of the state median
Take it one step at a time. We're here to help.
Quick facts
Step 1 of 6: See if you qualify
Who this program helps
- Live in Kentucky
- Child under 13 (19 with special needs)
- Work, train, study, or job-search
Good to know: No job yet? You get a 3-month window to look for one while getting help.Step 2 of 6: Get your papers ready
Gather these first
- Driver's license or state ID
- Child's birth certificate
- Pay stubs or tax returns
- Lease or utility bill
Good to know: Families without stable housing can get immediate temporary approval, with 3 months to turn in papers.Step 3 of 6: Apply on kynect
Kentucky's benefits website
- Log into kynect.ky.gov (opens in a new tab)Tap to open
- Pick 'Child Care Assistance'
- Upload your papers
Good to know: Free interpreters are available in many languages. Call 1-855-306-8959 for help.Step 4 of 6: Do your interview
A required step
- Schedule your DCBS interview
- Answer questions about your family
Step 5 of 6: Wait for your answer
Within 30 days
- Decision within 30 days
- Help starts from your application date
Good to know: Your help counts from the day you applied, not the day you're approved.Step 6 of 6: Start your child care
CCAP pays your provider
- CCAP pays provider directly
- Small co-pay, under 7% of income
- Relatives can be providers too
Important: Relative providers must be licensed, certified, or registered.Good to know: You made it! Your child has care while you build your future.
A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the Kentucky CCAP Program.
What is the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)?
The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible Kentucky families pay for child care so parents can work, attend school, train for a job, or participate in approved job-search activities. CCAP supports families with children under 13 (or under 19 if special needs), with costs shared between the state and the family.
How do I apply for CCAP?
Online — Log in or create an account at kynect.ky.gov (via the Kentucky Online Gateway).
By phone — Call 1‑855‑306‑8959 for help submitting your application via phone.
In person — Visit your local Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office (find locations via kynect).
Need help applying? Free interpreter services are available in other languages or for disabilities—call 1‑866‑291‑8931, or TTY: 1‑800‑627‑4720.
How long does it take to receive funds?
Once your application is approved, CCAP eligibility starts effective from the date of application, not after approval. Authorized child care providers are paid directly (weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly), minus your required co-pay .
What do the application steps look like?
Log into kynect and select "Child Care Assistance" along with any other needed benefits.
Complete application sections, including household, income, and child care needs.
Upload documents (ID, child’s birth certificate, proof of income and residence).
Submit and schedule any required interview with DCBS.
Receive eligibility decision via kynect or mail within 30 days.
Provide your provider’s information—CCAP pays them directly once your case is active.
What documentation is required when applying?
ID & Residency
Driver’s license or state ID
Lease, utility bill, tax document
Child Eligibility
Birth certificate or hospital birth record
Proof of citizenship/qualified immigration
Family Income & Activity
Recent pay stubs, tax return, or employer statement
Proof of employment/training (20 hrs/week for single parent; 40 hrs/week for couples)
Special Situations
Teen parents: school/GED documentation
Unemployed: job search verification form
Homeless families: ID plus proof of homelessness
Children with disabilities remain eligible up to age 19 with diagnosis or IEP/SSI documentation
Common FAQs
1. Who qualifies for CCAP?Kentucky resident families with children under 13 (or 19 with special needs), income ≤ 85% of State Median Income, and who are working/training/job-searching — or teen parents attending school.
2. Is there a cost to families?Yes—families pay a small co-pay, typically under 7% of gross income. CCAP covers the remainder up to state maximum rates. Co-pays may be waived for protection and permanency cases.
3. What if I'm unemployed?You may get a 3-month job-search window to stay eligible—turn in the DCC-90P form early.
4. Can relatives be my provider?Yes—rising licensed, certified, or registered relatives are eligible providers under CCAP.
5. What if my family is homeless?You can receive immediate temporary approval; you’ll then have 3 months to submit required documents .
Who do I contact about my application status?
Kynect (online self-service) — monitor your case, respond to requests.
DCBS Call Center — 1‑855‑306‑8959 (or TTY 1‑800‑627‑4720).
Local kynectors — find in-person help at your community action council or KCTCS campus.
Division of Child Care (DCC) — for provider billing or payment questions, call 1‑844‑209‑2657
Last updated June 17, 2025