Estimate Your CCDF Eligibility
About the CCDF Program
The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) is a federal program that helps low-income families access affordable child care. Key facts:
- Eligibility is generally set at 85% of state median income (SMI), though states may set lower thresholds.
- Families typically pay a sliding-scale co-payment based on income and family size.
- Subsidies are paid directly to child care providers on behalf of qualifying families.
- Each state administers its own CCDF program with specific rules, income limits, and waiting lists.
- You must be working, attending school, or participating in job training to qualify.
Understanding CCDF Child Care Subsidies
The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) is the primary federal program that helps low to moderate income families afford child care. Each state sets its own income eligibility limits, typically between 75% and 85% of the State Median Income (SMI). For a family of four, annual income limits range from approximately $45,000 in some states to over $100,000 in higher-cost states.
Under the 2024 CCDF Final Rule, families with incomes at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) pay no copayment. Other families are capped at 7% of gross household income. The subsidy is paid directly to your child care provider, and you pay only the difference. Most states require recertification every 12 months.
If this calculator suggests you may be eligible, visit your state’s child care agency website to apply. Our Monthly Child Care Cost Calculator can help you estimate what care will cost in your state before and after subsidies, and our Tax Savings Calculator shows additional ways to reduce your child care expenses.