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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Enrollment Period
Open enrollment
Established
1990
CCDF provides childcare subsidies to low-income working families to help cover the cost of quality care for children up to age 13, or up to age 19 for children with special needs. Families typically pay an income-based copayment while the subsidy covers the balance. Parents must be working, in school, or in job training.
Without CCDF, a single parent would spend over 30% of income on childcare in most states.
People Helped
1.4 million families
receiving subsidized childcare
Annual Federal Budget
$11.7 billion
Average Benefit
Childcare subsidy covering most or all of childcare costs
Where Available
All 50 states, DC, and US territories
Answer each question — we'll show you exactly what applies to your situation.
Do you have a documented disability?
Parent or guardian must be working, attending school, or participating in a job training program?
Family income typically must be at or below 85% of state median income?
Family must be unable to afford childcare without assistance?
Are you a US citizen or qualifying non-citizen?