New Jersey’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) provides subsidized childcare vouchers to income-eligible families, covering part or all of your monthly daycare cost. In 2026, NJ families earning up to 200% of the federal poverty level ($62,400/year for a family of four) may qualify for the DFD voucher — one of the most generous childcare subsidy programs in the country.
This guide covers exactly who qualifies, how to apply, what it covers, and how Little Einstein’s Academy helps Edison and Roselle families navigate the process.
What Is the NJ Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)?
The NJ Child Care Assistance Program is a state-funded subsidy administered by the NJ Division of Family Development (DFD) that helps low- and moderate-income working families afford licensed childcare. Eligible families receive a voucher that pays their daycare provider directly — reducing or eliminating out-of-pocket costs.
The program serves children from birth through age 13 enrolled in licensed NJ childcare centers, family daycare homes, or school-age programs.
Key facts for 2026:
- Income eligibility: Up to 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL)
- Children must be under 13 years old
- Parents must be working, in school, or in approved job training
- NJ residents only
- Vouchers pay the provider directly — you pay only your copay (if any)
Who Qualifies for NJ childcare subsidy in 2026?
To qualify for the NJ DFD childcare voucher, your family must meet all three criteria:
1. Income Eligibility
| Family Size | 200% FPL (2026) |
|---|---|
| 2 people | $40,880/year |
| 3 people | $51,640/year |
| 4 people | $62,400/year |
| 5 people | $73,160/year |
| 6 people | $83,920/year |
Both parents’ gross income counts. Self-employment income counts. Unemployment benefits count.
2. Activity Requirement
At least one parent or guardian must be:
- Employed (any number of hours — even part-time)
- Enrolled in school or a job-training program
- Seeking employment (limited duration)
- Participating in Work First NJ (welfare-to-work)
3. Residency
You must be a New Jersey resident. There is no minimum duration of residency required.
How Much Does the Voucher Cover?
NJ sets a maximum reimbursement rate by county and age group. Your subsidy covers the difference between the reimbursement rate and your copay. In some cases — particularly for lower-income families — the subsidy covers 100% of the childcare cost.
Middlesex County (Edison) and Union County (Roselle) rates for 2026:
| Age Group | Max Weekly Rate |
|---|---|
| Infant (0–18 months) | ~$385–$430/week |
| Toddler (18 months–3 years) | ~$310–$360/week |
| Preschool (3–5 years) | ~$270–$310/week |
| School Age (5–13 years) | ~$220–$260/week |
Your copay is calculated on a sliding scale based on income. Families at the lowest income levels may have a $0 copay.
How to Apply for NJ Childcare Assistance
Step 1: Contact Your County DFD Office
Applications are processed through your county’s Division of Family Development office:
- Middlesex County (Edison families): 75 Bayard St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 | 732-745-3700
- Union County (Roselle families): 342 Westminster Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07208 | 908-659-5800
You can also begin the process online at nj.gov/dcf.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Bring these to your appointment:
- Proof of NJ residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement)
- Proof of income (last 3 pay stubs, employer letter, or tax return if self-employed)
- Proof of employment or school enrollment (employer letter, class schedule)
- Birth certificate for each child applying
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- Photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
- Name and address of your chosen childcare provider
Step 3: Select a Licensed Provider
Your provider must be licensed by NJ DCF. Little Einstein’s Academy is fully licensed at both locations and accepts DFD childcare vouchers. You can register online to hold your child’s spot while your subsidy application is processed.
Step 4: Receive Your Voucher
Processing typically takes 2–6 weeks. Once approved, you’ll receive a certificate of eligibility and your provider will begin receiving payment directly from the state.
Little Einstein’s Academy Accepts NJ Childcare Subsidy
Both our Edison (334 Plainfield Ave) and Roselle (528 E 2nd Ave) locations accept NJ DFD childcare vouchers. We work with families throughout Middlesex and Union counties — including Edison, Metuchen, Woodbridge, South Plainfield, Roselle Park, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Cranford, and Elizabeth.
Our staff has helped hundreds of NJ families navigate the subsidy process. If you have questions about whether you qualify, contact us and we’ll walk you through it.
get rates and check enrollment availability →
- Edison: 732-985-4700
- Roselle: 908-241-6200
NJ Childcare Subsidy — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for NJ childcare assistance in 2026?
Families earning up to 200% of the federal poverty level are eligible. For a family of four, that’s approximately $62,400/year in gross household income.
How long does it take to get approved for the NJ DFD voucher?
Processing typically takes 2–6 weeks depending on your county office’s workload and how quickly you provide all required documents.
Can I choose any daycare with the NJ childcare voucher?
Your provider must be licensed by NJ DCF. Little Einstein’s Academy is fully licensed at our Edison and Roselle locations.
Does the voucher cover full-time care?
Yes. The voucher covers up to the maximum reimbursement rate for your age group and county. If your provider charges more than the state rate, you pay the difference.
What if I’m self-employed?
Self-employment counts as an eligible activity. Bring your most recent tax return or a self-certification of income and business activity.
Can I use the subsidy for after-school or summer care?
Yes. The program covers school-age care including before and after school programs and summer daycare.
What happens if my income changes?
You must report income changes to your county DFD office. Your subsidy may be adjusted or you may need to reapply.
Do I need to reapply every year?
Yes. NJ childcare subsidies require annual redetermination. Your county office will contact you before your voucher expires.
Can undocumented parents apply for childcare subsidy?
The child must be a US citizen or eligible non-citizen. Parent immigration status does not affect the child’s eligibility in most cases.
Other Financial Assistance for NJ Daycare
If you don’t qualify for the DFD voucher or are on a waiting list, explore these options:
Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit
Federal tax credit covering 20–35% of childcare costs up to $3,000 for one child or $6,000 for two or more. File Form 2441 with your federal return.
NJ Child and Dependent Care Credit
NJ state-level credit on top of the federal credit for qualifying families. No income cap, but higher value for lower-income filers.
Dependent Care FSA
If your employer offers a Flexible Spending Account, contribute up to $5,000/year pre-tax for childcare costs.
Head Start / Early Head Start
Federally funded program for income-eligible families with children 0–5. Free comprehensive early education and family support. Find your local program at eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov.
Little Einstein’s Academy — Edison: 334 Plainfield Ave, NJ 08817 (732-985-4700) · Roselle: 528 E 2nd Ave, NJ 07203 (908-241-6200) · Mon–Fri 7am–6pm · Licensed by NJ DCF · Subsidy accepted
