Childcare Assistance

It is important to know that your child is well cared for while you are at work or going to school. Minnesota’s Child Care Assistance Programs (CCAP) can help make quality child care affordable for eligible families. There are options for families receiving public assistance through the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) or the Diversionary Work Program (DWP) and other income-eligible families.

The Minnesota Child Care Assistance program helps families pay for care for:

Children 12 or younger
Children 14 or younger with special needs

In addition, families must:

Participate in authorized activities including work, looking for work, or attending school
Cooperate with child support requirements
Chose an eligible child care provider that is registered with the county

Your child care worker will follow program rules to determine the amount of child care assistance for which you qualify for. The number of hours is determined by your:

Work, training or school schedule
Child’s school schedule
Other factors including travel time

There are maximum amounts per hour, day or week that child care assistance can pay the child care provider you choose. If child care assistance doesn’t cover the provider’s usual rate, the provider may charge you the difference.

Most families have to pay a portion of the child care cost, called a copayment. The copay amount is based on your family’s size and income.

To apply for childcare assistance visit the MNbenefits site to apply or call to request an applications.

Child Care Assistance Application

Paper Application

Income Limit - If your annual income is below these amounts based on your household size, you may be eligible for child care assistance.

Number of people	Aunnual Income Before taxes
2	$40,156
3	$49,605
4	$59,053
5	$68,502
6	$77,950
7	$79,722
8	$81,493
9	$83,265

Do you need help finding a provider?

You can search on line or call 888-291-9811 to find a Parent Aware provider near you. Parent Aware can help you find high quality care that meets your families needs as well as provide you with an understanding of licencing and safety standards.

For a current list of local providers click the link below:

Day Care Listing as of 2/8/24