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Child Care Affordability Program (CCAP)

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

What is the Child Care Affordability Program (CCAP)?

CCAP helps families pay for child care so parents can work, go to school, or join a job training program. CCAP is also available for families where adults are retired and are the legal guardian of a child. Families making up to 125% of Maine's median income may be eligible. The program works with licensed child care centers, family child care providers, and even relatives over 18 who can provide care in their home or your home.

How do I apply for the Child Care Affordability Program?

There are 3 ways to apply for CCAP:

  1. By Phone: Call OCFS at 1-877-680-5866 or (207) 624-7999, Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm
  2. Apply Online: Update family information and renew applications through Baxter, our online management system
  3. In Person: Visit your local DHHS office to receive a printed application
  4. By Mail: Print and complete the application, then mail it back to your local DHHS office

How long does it take to receive funds from the Child Care Affordability Program?

The Department will determine eligibility for child care programs within 15 days of receiving a completed application. Once approved, the Department will also provide retroactive reimbursement to a child care program that provides tuition assistance to an applicant during the application period. This means if your child care provider helps you during the waiting period, they can get paid back once you're approved.

What do the application steps look like?

Step 1: Choose how you want to apply (phone, online, in-person, or mail)

Step 2: Fill out the complete application with all required information about your family and income

Step 3: Gather and submit all required documents (see documentation section below)

Step 4: Choose an approved child care provider from the list of licensed centers, family providers, or approved relatives

Step 5: Wait for your eligibility decision (up to 15 days)

Step 6: If approved, your provider will start receiving payments and you'll pay your family co-payment directly to them

Step 7: The Department will notify a provider of child care services within 2 business days of when a recipient's eligibility changes

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

Income Verification (provide what applies to your family)

  • Recent pay stubs (last 30 days recommended)
  • Tax returns (most recent year)
  • Self-employment records
  • Unemployment benefits statements
  • Social Security benefits
  • Child support documentation

Child's Information (required for all applications)

  • Proof of citizenship for children
  • Birth certificate
  • Social Security card
  • Medical records (only if child has special needs)

Parent/Guardian Status (provide what applies to your situation)

  • Official School Schedule for parent(s) with financial aid award letter and school invoice (only if attending school)
  • Work schedule from employer (only if working)
  • Job training program enrollment letter (only if in job training)
  • Retirement documentation (only if retired and legal guardian)

Special Circumstances (only if applicable)

  • Special needs documentation determined by a qualified professional (for children with disabilities)
  • Court documents (if legal guardian)
  • Immigration documents (if applicable)

Common FAQ's

1. How much will I have to pay? There is a sliding fee scale that ranges from 1%-10% of your gross weekly income. Families under 30% of Maine's median income do not have a copay.

2. Can I choose any child care provider? You can choose from licensed child care centers, licensed family child care providers, adults who provide care in their own homes, adults who come to your home to provide care, or relatives over the age of 18. However, your provider must be approved by CCAP.

3. Is this program available everywhere in Maine? Yes, it is available to eligible families throughout the state. Families must apply to participate.

4. What if my income changes? You must report any changes in your family situation right away. The program will adjust your benefits based on your new income level.

5. How do I find a child care provider? To find a child care provider in Maine, visit childcarechoice.me for resources. This website allows you to search for licensed child care programs by location and type of program.

Who do I contact about my application status?

Maine Department of Health and Human Services
Office of Child and Family Services

Email: CCAP.DHHS@Maine.gov

Phone: 1-877-680-5866 (toll-free) or (207) 624-7999

Fax: (207) 287-6308

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm

Address: 2 Anthony Avenue, State House Station #11, Augusta, Maine 04333

For local office locations: Visit your local DHHS office