Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF)
The Child Care and Development Fund is a federal assistance program designed to help low-income families access affordable child care while parents work, pursue education, or participate in training programs. Administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the program operates through state, territorial, and tribal agencies, each of which manages its own subsidy system. These state and local programs work with eligible child care providers to reduce the costs families pay for care services.
Eligibility for CCDF assistance is based on several factors, including household income level, the parent's employment or educational status, and the availability of funding in the applicant's jurisdiction. Because demand for child care subsidies often exceeds available funding, many states and territories maintain waiting lists. Families interested in applying should contact their state or tribal child care licensing agency directly; applications are submitted through official government channels at no cost to the applicant.
The assistance provided through CCDF is a subsidy that helps bridge the gap between what families can afford and the actual cost of care. Unlike loans, subsidies do not require repayment. It is important to note that any organization charging a fee to help families obtain or apply for child care subsidies is not a legitimate part of the program. Families seeking CCDF support should work only with their official state or territorial agency to understand local eligibility requirements and application procedures.
Avoid grant scams
Legitimate grants are free to apply for. Walk away from anyone who:
- guarantees you a grant, or says you were 'selected' for money you never applied for;
- charges an upfront 'processing', 'application', or 'grant kit' fee;
- asks for your bank-account or card number to 'deposit' a grant;
- pressures you to act immediately.
Verify any program directly at its official .gov site, and report fraud at reportfraud.ftc.gov. More on our grant-scam awareness page.
Official sources: HHS Administration for Children & Families — Office of Child Care (Child Care and Development Fund). This page is educational information, not financial or legal advice; grants are competitive and never guaranteed. See our sources & how-we-work policy.
Frequently asked questions
Who qualifies for child care and development fund (ccdf)?
Working, training, or studying low-income parents who need help paying for child care; many recipients are working mothers. Open to women and men alike..
Does child care and development fund (ccdf) have to be repaid?
This is subsidy (not a loan, not repaid). Loans must be repaid, usually with interest.
Is there a fee to apply?
No. Applying for legitimate funding is free. Anyone charging a fee to 'get you a grant' is a scam — see our scam-awareness page.
How do I apply for child care and development fund (ccdf)?
Apply through your state, territorial, or tribal child-care agency; find it via childcare.gov.
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