Kentucky Childcare Subsidies & Assistance Programs (2026)
Kentucky's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) provides childcare vouchers to eligible working families in Louisville and across the state. The STARS for KIDS NOW quality rating system helps families identify high-quality care and receive higher subsidy rates.
Available Programs
| Program | Ages | Eligibility | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) | 0–13 | Below 160% FPL, working/in approved activities | Vouchers for licensed childcare providers |
| STARS for KIDS NOW | 0–13 | CCAP recipients at 3–5 star providers | Higher subsidy rate for quality-rated care |
| Head Start / Early Head Start | 0–5 | Below 100% FPL | Free comprehensive early childhood program |
| TANF Child Care | 0–13 | TANF recipients | Childcare during work activities |
Income Eligibility (2026)
Kentucky's CCAP covers families earning below 160% of the federal poverty level:
| Family Size | 160% FPL (approx. annual gross) |
|---|---|
| 2 | $32,500 |
| 3 | $41,000 |
| 4 | $50,000 |
| 5 | $59,000 |
Families may remain enrolled until income reaches 200% FPL. Verify current thresholds at dcbs.ky.gov.
How to Apply
- Apply online: Visit dcbs.ky.gov to start your CCAP application through the Kentucky Department for Community Based Services.
- Call DCBS: Reach the childcare assistance team at 1-855-306-8959 for application assistance or eligibility questions.
- Visit a local DCBS office: Find your nearest office at dcbs.ky.gov for in-person application assistance.
- Find STARS-rated providers: Use the provider search at the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services to find 3–5 star rated providers in your area.
- Gather required documents: Proof of Kentucky residency, child's birth certificate, recent pay stubs, and documentation of work or school enrollment.
Kentucky State Tax Benefits
- No dedicated state childcare tax credit: Kentucky does not offer a separate state income tax credit specifically for childcare expenses.
- Federal Child and Dependent Care Credit: Kentucky families can claim the federal credit — 20–35% of up to $6,000 in childcare expenses — as their primary tax savings vehicle.
- Dependent Care FSA: Contributing up to $5,000 pre-tax to a DCFSA reduces federal taxable income. Kentucky conforms to federal DCFSA treatment, so this reduces state taxable income as well.
- STARS for KIDS NOW bonus: Choosing a higher-rated provider increases your CCAP subsidy amount, reducing out-of-pocket costs without any tax filing required.
See our Childcare Tax Benefits Guide for strategies combining federal programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kentucky's income limit for childcare assistance?
Kentucky's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) covers families earning below 160% of the federal poverty level — roughly $41,000/year for a family of 3 in 2026. Families may remain enrolled until income reaches 200% FPL.
What is STARS for KIDS NOW in Kentucky?
STARS for KIDS NOW is Kentucky's quality rating and improvement system for childcare providers. Providers receive 1–5 star ratings based on staff qualifications, learning environment, and family engagement. Families receiving CCAP vouchers get a higher subsidy rate when they choose higher-star providers, incentivizing quality care.
How do I apply for childcare assistance in Kentucky?
Apply for Kentucky CCAP online at dcbs.ky.gov, call 1-855-306-8959, or visit your local DCBS office. You'll need proof of Kentucky residency, your child's birth certificate, recent pay stubs, and documentation of work or school enrollment.
Calculate Kentucky Childcare Costs
See childcare cost estimates for your Kentucky zip code, including subsidy eligibility and federal tax savings.
Calculate Your Costs