Paying for childcare in New Jersey can feel overwhelming — especially when infant daycare averages $1,400 to $1,900 per month in Middlesex County alone. But here’s what many parents don’t realize: New Jersey’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) can cover most or even all of your daycare costs, bringing your copay down to as little as $0 per month.
At Little Einstein’s Academy, we work with dozens of families who use CCAP to afford quality childcare at our Edison and Roselle locations. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about applying for CCAP in 2026 — from eligibility to required documents to what happens after you submit your application.
What Is CCAP? The Basics Every NJ Parent Should Know
The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is a state-funded subsidy that helps income-eligible families in New Jersey pay for childcare while they work, attend school, or participate in job training. The program is administered through the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Family Development.
CCAP covers children from birth through age 13 (or up to age 19 for children with special needs). The subsidy pays a portion — and in many cases, nearly all — of the cost of licensed childcare. Your family’s share is called a copayment, and it’s based on your household income, family size, and hours of care.
If your family qualifies, you can use CCAP at any licensed childcare center that accepts the subsidy — including both of our Edison and Roselle locations.
Am I Eligible for CCAP? Income Requirements for 2025-2026
Eligibility for CCAP depends on several factors. Here’s what you need to meet:
Income Limits
Your household income must fall at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to initially qualify. Once enrolled, you can remain eligible as long as your income doesn’t exceed 85% of the State Median Income (SMI).
For reference, here are the approximate 2025-2026 income thresholds:
| Family Size | Initial Eligibility (250% FPL) | Continued Eligibility (85% SMI) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | ~$51,625 | ~$64,000 |
| 3 | ~$65,075 | ~$79,000 |
| 4 | ~$78,525 | ~$94,000 |
| 5 | ~$91,975 | ~$109,000 |
These are approximate figures. Exact thresholds are updated annually — check childcarenj.gov for the current numbers.
Work or Education Requirements
At least one parent (or both, in two-parent households) must be:
- Working at least 20 hours per week, OR
- Enrolled in school or a job training program, OR
- A combination of work and education totaling sufficient hours
Other Requirements
- Your child must be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen
- Your child must be under age 13 (or under 19 with special needs)
- Your child must reside with the applying parent(s)
- You must be a New Jersey resident
Not sure if you qualify? Our team at Little Einstein’s Academy can help you figure out your options — we’ve guided many families through the process.
How to Apply for CCAP: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Complete the Registration Form
Before you can submit a full application, you need to complete a CCAP Registration Form. This puts you in line to be considered for available slots. You can find the form through your local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency:
- Middlesex County (Edison): Child Care Resources — (732) 918-9901
- Union County (Roselle): Programs for Parents — (908) 497-3541
Step 2: Wait for Application Invitation
Because CCAP has limited funding, the program periodically opens and closes to new applicants. As of late 2025, CCAP closed to new applications after July 31, 2025. A limited reopening began in January 2026. Check with your CCR&R for current availability.
Step 3: Submit Your Full Application
When invited to apply, gather and submit these documents:
- Proof of income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, or employer letter)
- Proof of employment or school enrollment
- Your child’s birth certificate or proof of citizenship
- Proof of NJ residency (utility bill, lease agreement)
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- Photo ID for the applying parent
Step 4: Choose Your Childcare Provider
You can select any licensed childcare provider that participates in CCAP. Both Little Einstein’s Academy locations — 334 Plainfield Ave in Edison and 528 E 2nd Ave in Roselle — accept CCAP families.
Step 5: Receive Your Copayment Amount
Once approved, you’ll be assigned a copayment based on your income and family size. Many families at our center pay $0 copay. Others pay a small amount — typically much less than full tuition.
CCAP vs. CCCS: What’s the Difference?
You may also hear about CCCS (Community Child Care Solutions). Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | CCAP | CCCS |
|---|---|---|
| Funded by | State of NJ (federal block grant) | County-level funding |
| Eligibility | Income-based (250% FPL) | Varies by county |
| Availability | Subject to funding — opens/closes | May have separate waitlists |
| Provider choice | Any licensed CCAP provider | Approved CCCS providers |
| Copay | Based on income formula | Based on program rules |
Some families qualify for one but not the other. Learn more about NJ childcare subsidies and vouchers to understand all your options.
What Happens After You’re Approved
Once your CCAP application is approved:
- You’ll receive a notification letter confirming your eligibility period (typically 12 months)
- Your copayment amount will be listed — this is what you pay your provider each month
- CCAP pays the provider directly for the remaining cost, up to the state payment rate
- You must report income changes within 10 calendar days if your income exceeds 85% of SMI
- Recertification is required — you’ll need to reapply before your eligibility period expires
Important note: If your chosen provider’s tuition exceeds the CCAP payment rate, you may be responsible for the difference. At Little Einstein’s Academy, we work with families to make costs manageable — learn about our affordable pricing.
Tips for Getting Approved Faster
- Register early — even before you need care. The waitlist can be long.
- Have all documents ready before you’re invited to apply. Missing paperwork delays approval.
- Keep pay stubs current — you’ll typically need the last 4 weeks of income verification.
- Choose your provider ahead of time — knowing where your child will go speeds up the process.
- Ask your provider for help — experienced centers like ours can guide you through paperwork.
- Check both CCAP and CCCS — if one program is closed, the other may have openings.
- Consider Grow NJ Kids-rated providers — these may qualify for higher payment rates from the state.
How Little Einstein’s Academy Supports CCAP Families
We believe every child deserves quality early education, regardless of their family’s financial situation. That’s why we:
- Accept CCAP, CCCS, and other subsidy programs at both locations
- Help families navigate the application process
- Offer sibling discounts on top of subsidy benefits
- Provide the same curriculum and care quality for all children — subsidized or private-pay
- Maintain transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Many of our families pay little to nothing out of pocket. See if you qualify for free or low-cost childcare at our center.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for CCAP?
Processing times vary, but once you submit a complete application with all required documents, approval typically takes 2-4 weeks. Incomplete applications take longer, so make sure everything is in order before submitting.
Can I use CCAP at any daycare?
You can use CCAP at any licensed childcare provider that participates in the program. This includes licensed centers, registered family childcare homes, and approved home providers. Little Einstein’s Academy in both Edison and Roselle accepts CCAP.
What if my income changes after I’m approved?
You must notify your CCR&R within 10 calendar days of any income change. If your income drops, your copay may decrease. If it exceeds 85% of SMI, you may lose eligibility, though a graduated phase-out period may apply.
Is CCAP currently accepting new applications?
CCAP funding is limited. The program closed to new applications after July 31, 2025, with a limited reopening in early 2026. Contact your local CCR&R for the most current status. Even when closed, you can register to be considered when slots open up.
What’s the difference between CCAP and Head Start?
Head Start is a separate federal program for low-income families with children ages 3-5. CCAP covers a wider age range (birth to 13) and gives you more flexibility in choosing your provider. Some families qualify for both programs.
Can I switch providers while receiving CCAP?
Yes, but you must notify your CCR&R at least 10 calendar days before the change. CCAP cannot pay two providers for the same period.
Ready to Get Started?
Don’t let the cost of childcare hold your family back. Whether you’re applying for CCAP for the first time or looking for a provider that accepts subsidies, Little Einstein’s Academy is here to help.
schedule a tour at our Edison or Roselle location and let’s talk about how we can make quality childcare work for your family’s budget. Or start the registration process online today.
Edison: 334 Plainfield Ave, Edison, NJ 08817 — (732) 985-4700
Roselle: 528-530 E 2nd Ave, Roselle, NJ 07203 — (908) 241-6200
