Expanded Eligibility for Child Care Assistance Program in Illinois

Expanded eligibility and affordability for the Illinois Child Care Assistance Program took effect October 1.

Families with income of 200% of the Federal Poverty Level or lower will now be able to receive child care assistance through CCAP. That's an increase from 185% of the Poverty Level.

The program also now allows families whose income increases up to 225% of the Poverty Level to remain in the program if they previously qualified at 200% of the Poverty Level or lower.

A family of three could earn up to $42,660 at their initial application and remain eligible for assistance even if their income increases to $48,000.

Families will also have a three-month, graduated phase-out if their income increases above the 225% "exit level".

You can find out more on the CCAP Facebook page and on the IDHS website.