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Child Care Development Fund

A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the Child Care Development Fund in Indiana.

What is Indiana’s Child Care Development Fund (CCDF)?

The CCDF helps Indiana families pay for licensed child care. It allows parents to work, go to school, or train. It also works with the “On My Way Pre-K” program for eligible 4-year-olds.

How do I apply for CCDF?

You apply through Early Ed Connect, the state’s online portal:

  1. Go here ➝ Early Ed Connect

  2. Create an account and start your application.

  3. Upload documents using your phone or computer.

  4. Save and submit—applications are automatically placed on the waitlist upon submission.

Support available in English and Spanish with tutorials and help via the portal.

How long does it take to receive funds from CCDF?

  • After submitting, your child is placed on a waitlist because demand is high.

  • Priority on the waitlist goes to:

    • On My Way Pre-K applicants

    • Families earning under 100% of the Federal Poverty Level

    • Children of child care workers

  • Wait times vary—could be a few months or over a year depending on funding and your place on the list.

What do the application steps look like?

  1. Set up your Early Ed Connect account.

  2. Complete the application—fill your income, work/school schedule, and child info.

  3. Upload documents (IDs, income proof, etc.).

  4. Submit and go onto the state waitlist.

  5. Stay on the list by updating info every 90 days (contact, income, job/school status). 

  6. Approval & voucher: You’ll be contacted when funds become available.

  7. Pick your provider: Choose a CCDF-approved child care center, home, or relative. 

  8. Use the funds: Once approved, you can start care with covered payment.

  9. Renew yearly: Current families must re-authorize on time to keep benefits.

What documentation is required?

Proof of Income (within last 60 days, only one is required)

  • Pay stubs or employer letter

  • TANF, SSI, or unemployment letters

  • Job-search documentation (if unemployed)

Proof of Need (only one is required)

  • Work schedule/job letter OR

  • School/training schedule OR

  • New job letter (with start date & pay) 

Child Information (only one is required)

  • Child’s birth certificate or hospital verification

  • If special needs, doctor’s documentation

ID and Residency (only one is required)

  • Photo ID (for parent/applicant and co-applicant)

  • Proof of address: utility bill, lease, or mail (within 60 days)

Provider Info (only one is required)

  • Provider must be CCDF-approved. Provide details in the portal.

Common FAQs

1. Who qualifies?

  • Indiana residents with gross monthly income ≤ 150% of FPL (~$45,000/year for a family of 4)

  • Child under 13—or older with special needs up to age 19

  • Child must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident

2. Can I choose my child care provider?
Yes—you may pick any CCDF-approved licensed provider such as a relative, center, or home.

3. What if I’m already getting CCDF?
You keep funds as long as you re-authorize on time and maintain eligibility.

4. How often do I need to update?
Every 90 days, you must confirm contact info, income, and work/school status. 

5. Do I need to renew the help?
Yes—re-authorize annually before your current approval ends to continue getting help.

Who do I contact about my application status?

Indiana Office of Early Childhood & Out-of‑School Learning (OECOSL) via Early Ed Connect portal