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Reviewed October 1, 2026

RI Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

Rhode Island CCAP helps eligible families pay for care through approved child care providers.

Who can apply

Eligible routes include work, approved training or education, RI Works and specified teen programs. At application, the current income limit is 261% of federal poverty; age and residence rules also apply.

What help is available

The program covers all or part of approved care costs. A household copayment and authorized hours may apply.

Documents to prepare

  • Household income and address evidence.
  • Child age and relationship information.
  • Work, school or training schedule and requested provider details.

How to get started

  1. Apply

    Use HealthyRhode, a paper application or DHS phone intake at 855-697-4347.

  2. Submit the checklist

    Provide the requested verification of your eligibility route.

  3. Select approved care

    Confirm the provider’s participation, authorization and family share before relying on payment.

After applying

Follow CCAP’s own change-reporting rules, which differ from other benefits. Report address and household changes as instructed.

Website screenshots

These images show the pages captured in August 2026. Website screens and rules may have changed.

The HealthyRhode benefits portal home page.
August 2026 reference screenshot.
The Rhode Island DHS Child Care Assistance Program eligibility page.
August 2026 reference screenshot.

Common questions

Can college count?

Specified Rhode Island public college degree programs are eligible routes.

Can any provider be paid?

Care must be through a CCAP-approved provider.

Is every family’s care free?

A copayment may apply.

Are CCAP reporting rules identical to SNAP?

No. Read the CCAP instructions separately.

Sources and review

Content checked October 1, 2026 using CCAP eligibility and intake. Current eligibility and the final decision remain with the program.

Historical screenshots: source reference.