Help with Paying for Childcare

Subsidies for Childcare

We understand how crucial it is for families to have access to affordable, high-quality childcare. We’ve provided a link for families to access the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) page. Here, families can find detailed information on how to apply for state assistance to cover part of their childcare tuition. Please note that eligibility requirements must be met to qualify for the program.
IDHS: CCAP Eligibility/How to Apply

The IDHS site also provides an eligibility calculator that families can use to determine if they qualify for the program before applying.
IDHS: Child Care Eligibility Calculator

Tax Savings and Incentives

Certain tax credits and savings programs may help lower the cost of child care for eligible families:

• Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit: A federal tax credit that reduces year-end tax liability for qualified families.
• Child Tax Credit: May lower your federal taxes for each eligible child under the age of 17.
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Offered by some employers, this account allows you to allocate pre-tax income for childcare expenses.
• Illinois Specific Incentives: Additional benefits may be available depending on where you live.

These options vary for each family. Consult with a tax professional or preparer, or visit irs.gov for further details.