How to Apply: Texas Child Care Assistance Program

A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the Texas Child Care Assistance Program.

What is the Texas Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)?

The Texas Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), also called Child Care Services (CCS), helps families pay for child care. This program gives scholarships to help working parents, students, and people in job training afford quality child care for their children. The goal is to help parents work or go to school while making sure their children are in safe, quality care programs. The program is run by the Texas Workforce Commission and local Workforce Solutions offices across the state.

How do I apply for Texas Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)?

Online Application (Recommended):

• Visit the Texas Child Care Connection (TX3C) at childcare.twc.texas.gov
• Create an account or log in to your existing account
• Complete the eligibility screener first to see if you qualify
• Fill out the full application online if you are eligible

By Phone or In-Person:

• Contact your local Workforce Solutions office directly
• Call 2-1-1 for help finding your local office
• Visit your regional Workforce Solutions office in person

Important: All applicants are encouraged to apply through the Texas Child Care Connection online portal as this is the fastest way to apply and get approved.

How long does it take to receive funds from Texas Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)?

Application Processing:

• Initial Review: Your application will be processed within 30 days of submission
• Eligibility Decision: You will be notified by mail or through TX3C about approval or denial
• First Payment: Once approved, payments start when your child begins care at an approved provider
• Ongoing Payments: Your provider submits invoices and receives payment directly from the state

Important Timeline Notes:

• If you are approved, your benefits last for 12 months before you need to reapply
• Job seekers get 3 months of initial help while looking for work
• Fast processing is available for families experiencing homelessness

What do the application steps look like?

Step 1: Check if you qualify

Step 2: Create your TX3C account

Step 3: Complete the online application

Step 4: Choose a child care provider that accepts CCAP payments

Step 5: Wait for approval

Step 6: Start child care and pay your share

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

Child's Information:

• Birth certificate (certified copy)
• Social Security card
• Proof of immunizations
• Passport or legal immigration documents (if applicable)

Parent/Guardian Income Verification:

• Pay stubs from the last 13 weeks (all jobs)
• Self-employment income records
• Benefits letters (unemployment, Social Security, disability)
• Tax returns from last year
• Bank statements if self-employed

Residency and Household:

• Proof of Texas residency (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement from last 30 days)
• Driver's license or state ID
• Information about all household members
• Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable)

Work/School/Training Information:

• Employment verification letter from your employer with work schedule and pay rate
• School enrollment letter with class schedule and hours
• Training program acceptance letter
• Transcript showing progress in school

Special Circumstances:

• Disability documentation (if child has special needs)
• Homelessness documentation (if applicable)
• Court papers (if involved in custody cases)

Common FAQ's

1. How much will I have to pay for child care? Your Parent Share of Cost depends on your family size, income, and how many children need care. Most families pay between $1-$50 per week per child, but this varies based on your situation.

2. Can I choose any child care provider? You must choose from approved providers who have contracts with your local Workforce Solutions office. All approved providers have background checks and meet safety requirements. You can search for providers on the TX3C website.

3. What if my income or job changes? You must report any changes within 14 days. This includes new jobs, pay raises, moving, or family changes. You can update your information through your TX3C account or by calling your local office.

4. How long do my benefits last? Your approval lasts for 12 months. You will need to reapply before your benefits end. You will get reminders about when to reapply.

5. What if I can't find a job during the 3-month job search period? If you don't find a job within 3 months, your benefits will end. You can reapply once you find work or start school/training that meets the hour requirements.

Who do I contact about my application status?

Statewide Resources:

• Texas Child Care Connection (TX3C):childcare.twc.texas.gov
• Texas Workforce Commission:twc.texas.gov/programs/child-care
• General Help Line: Call 2-1-1 for assistance

Regional Workforce Solutions Offices:

Greater Dallas Area:Website

Gulf Coast Area (Houston):Website

East Texas Area:Website

North Central Texas Area:Website

West Central Texas Area:Website

Panhandle Area:Website

Northeast Texas Area:Website

Coastal Bend Area:Website

Alamo Area (San Antonio):Website

Permian Basin Area:Website

South Plains Area:Website

North Texas Area:Website

Tarrant County Area:Website

Borderplex Area (El Paso):Website

Concho Valley Area:Website

Heart of Texas Area:Website

Capital Area (Austin):Website

Rural Capital Area:Website

Brazos Valley Area:Website

Deep East Texas Area:Website

Southeast Texas Area:Website

Golden Crescent Area:Website

South Texas Area:Website

Lower Rio Grande Valley Area:Website

Cameron Area:Website

Texoma Area:Website

Central Texas Area:Website

Middle Rio Grande Area:Website

To find your local office: If you're not sure which region you live in, call 2-1-1 or visit the Texas Workforce Commission website to find your local Workforce Solutions office.

Last updated July 21, 2025