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Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFA)

How to access, complete, and submit an application for the Child Care Financial Assistance program in Massachusetts.

What is the Massachusetts Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFA)?

The Massachusetts Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFA) program helps eligible families pay for child care and out-of-school time programs, including before and after school care. Administered by the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), the program aims to support families who are working, attending school, or participating in job training programs. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and specific service needs. ​

How do I apply for CCFA?

There are 3 different ways you can apply for CCFA. 

  1. Complete the online child care waitlist registration form through Mass 211. Mass.gov​

  2. Call Mass 211 at 2-1-1 or 1-877-211-6277 and use extension 23 to speak with a Child Care Specialist.​

  3. Visit your local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency to apply.​

How long does it take to receive funds from CCFA?

After applying, if you are eligible and funding is available, you will receive a Waitlist Confirmation Notice. Once your name reaches the top of the waitlist, you will be contacted to complete the application process and verify your eligibility. Payments are made directly to your approved child care provider each month. ​

What do the application steps look like?

  1. Check eligibility using the Mirza Scout Eligibility Screener.

  2. Collect necessary documents such as proof of identity, residency, income, and child’s information.​

  3. Fill out the application form accurately and completely.​

  4. Submit the completed application and documents to your local CCR&R agency.​

  5. The CCR&R agency will review your application and determine eligibility.​

  6. You will be notified of your eligibility status and any further steps.​

  7. If approved, sign the Financial Assistance and Fee Agreement.​

  8. Start using your child care benefits once your application is approved.​

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

Identity Verification

  • Driver's license, passport, work or school ID.​

  • If you do not have a photo ID, you can use two forms of identification without a photo.​

Proof of Residency

  • Utility bills, tax forms, rent receipt, lease, mortgage statements, letter from landlord, shelter letter, or current vehicle registration.​

  • Post office box addresses are not accepted.​

Proof of Income

  • Pay stubs, letter from employer showing gross income and number of hours worked per week, or business records or tax returns showing self-employment income and expenses.​

  • Benefit or award letter, or check or record of payment for other income sources such as workers’ compensation, pension, alimony, unemployment benefits, etc.​

Child’s Information

  • Birth certificate, record of birth, passport, medical, school, or other official records.​

  • Guardianship documentation or court documents, if applicable.​

  • Proof of U.S. citizenship or qualified non-citizen status.​

Common FAQs

  1. Do I need to repay the funds I receive?

    • No, CCFA provides assistance in the form of grants, not loans.​

  2. Can I apply if I’m undocumented?

    • Yes, applying for or receiving child care financial assistance will not put you at risk of being considered a public charge.​

  3. What happens if I make a mistake on my application?

    • Contact your CCR&R agency immediately to correct any errors or omissions.​

  4. Can I reapply if I’m denied?

    • Yes, you can reapply if your circumstances change or if you have additional documentation.​

  5. Will receiving this benefit affect my immigration status or public charge determination?

    • No, receiving child care financial assistance will not affect your immigration status or public charge determination.​

Who do I contact about my application status?

Department of Early Education and Care (EEC)​

50 Milk St., 14th Floor, Boston, MA 02109-5002​

Phone: (617) 988-6600​

EEC Contact Center: (617) 988-7841​

To find your specific CCR&R agency, visit the CCR&R page or call the EEC Contact Center.

If you have any other questions or would like to speak to a Mirza Application Specialist, please contact support@heymirza.com