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The 2026 annual update and Market Rate Survey is open.
Learn more and complete the survey.
North Dakota Health and Human Services will be making updates to the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) in response to the rapid growth in program participants. To ensure the longevity of the program’s ability to effectively help working parents and child care providers, adjustments have been made to the benefits for families and bonuses for providers.
View the March 2026 Q&A
Watch the March 2026 webinar recording
Effective April 1, 2026, HHS will implement an updated age limit and minimum attendance requirement for CCAP payments. The updates are as follows:
A child must attend child care for a minimum of 40 hours in the service month to be eligible for a full-time CCAP payment. Children who are attending before or after school care are required to attend a minimum of 20 hours a service month to be eligible for a payment based on the approved level of care.
If a child attends less than the required amount of hours for both full-time and before and after school care, a payment may be issued based on actual hours attended.
Children who are attending drop-in care are required to attend a minimum of 40 hours in the service month to be eligible for a payment based on the approved level of care. If a child does not attend 40 hours a month, a provider must charge based on the actual hours attended.
This requirement also applies to children who have a parent receiving CCAP benefits through the Child Care Workforce Benefit.
This change will help ensure that CCAP payments better reflect the actual use of child care services.
To align CCAP policy with state law, CCAP payments will be available through the month a child turns 12 years old. The following month, providers will no longer be eligible to request a CCAP payment for that child.
No other CCAP eligibility, payment, certification, or reporting requirements are changing at this time. Providers and families should continue to follow existing CCAP processes.
Watch the webinar March 2026 recording or view the March 2026 Q&A .
View the Dec. 2025 Q&A
Click here to fill out the Infant and Toddler Bonus Form
Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, CCAP State Max Rates for care will change. Providers and families will see a decrease in the maximum amount that CCAP will cover for child care.
The infant and toddler rate will continue at the 75 th percentile of the market rate.
Preschool, school-age and part-time care will be set at the 50 th percentile of the market rate.
All rates reflect data from the most current Cost Analysis and Market Rate Survey.
Some families may have to pay a remaining balance if their cost of care is more than the max rate.
Families with income under 30% of the state median income (SMI) and CCAP Workforce Benefit families will continue to have their copay waived.
The table below shows allowable monthly maximums for full-time care (25 or more hours per week) effective Jan. 1, 2026. Rates are grouped by age and provider type.
Provider Type Provider Codes Infant (Birth through 17 months) Toddler (18 months through 2 years) Preschool (3-5 years) Other (6 up to 13) CENTER C, E, K, M $1,240 $1,124 $940 $800 LICENSED FAMILY/GROUP F, G, H $900 $880 $740 $700 SELF-DECLARED/ TRIBAL REGISTERED S, R $646 $600 $531 $529 APPROVED RELATIVE $422 $398 $351 $348
The table below shows allowable monthly maximums for part-time care (less than 25 hours per week) effective Jan. 1, 2026. Rates are grouped by age and provider type.
Provider Type Provider Codes Infant (Birth through 17 months) Toddler (18 months through 2 years) Preschool (3-5 years) Other (6 up to 13) CENTER C, E, K, M $546 $529 $489 $416 LICENSED FAMILY/GROUP F, G, H $416 $393 $385 $364 SELF-DECLARED/ TRIBAL REGISTERED S, R $284 $283 $276 $275 APPROVED RELATIVE $186 $187 $182 $181
State provider rates will be rounded down when the rate is not a full dollar amount. Allowable Maximum for Registration fees: Provider Type: C, E, K, M, F, G, H - $150 per calendar year
The increase in participation has also resulted in the need for a waitlist to receive child care assistance. Beginning Dec. 1, 2025, new applicants may need to be added to a waitlist before they can start receiving child care assistance. Families with income at or below 30% of SMI and households experiencing homelessness will receive priority consideration for child care assistance.
Families will not be placed on the waitlist if they are currently enrolled in CCAP. They will be added to the waitlist if they stop receiving CCAP benefits and re-apply.
People who apply for the CCAP Workforce Benefit will need to go on the waitlist to receive benefits if they are currently not enrolled in CCAP.
Payments will not be backdated for the time families were on the waitlist.
Copays will continue to be waived for families receiving the CCAP Workforce Benefit. People who apply for the CCAP Workforce Benefit will need to go on the waitlist to receive benefits if they are currently not enrolled in CCAP.
Bonuses that are paid to providers based on their Bright and Early ND quality rating will also be changing. Starting Jan. 1, there will no longer be a bonus for a provider with a Step 2 quality rating and the amount of bonuses will decrease. Bonuses will only be provided to providers that are Step 3 and 4. This will be an incentive to encourage providers to provide higher quality care.
New bonuses are:
Step 3 – 5%
Step 4 – 10%
The Infant and Toddler Bonus is now available to providers who are quality rated Step 2 or higher. Instead of receiving a percentage-based bonus, eligible providers will receive a flat rate of $200 per infant and $115 per toddler. Under the new approach, the bonus will be available for all infants and toddlers in the provider’s care, not just those participating in CCAP.
Click here to fill out the Infant and Toddler Bonus form
Visit Bright and Early ND to learn more about the process, benefits and resources available to support participation.
For questions about CCAP, visit hhs.nd.gov/ccap-providers or contact the Customer Support Center by email at applyforhelp@nd.gov , phone Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. CT at 866-614-6005 or 701-328-1000, 711 (TTY) or mail to Customer Support Center, P.O. Box 5562, Bismarck, ND 58506. You can also contact a local human service zone office.
A variety of programs, grants, awards and incentives are available to support child care providers. Find additional resources here.
Stay ahead, stay connected. Have you subscribed to the Child Care Connections newsletter? It will keep you informed and empower you to find resources as you serve children, families and communities. Information is shared four times each year.
Sign up for the CCAP provider newsletter
Access the CCAP Provider Self-Service Portal (SSP) to certify enrollment, check payment status and more. Find training resources here.
Go to the SSP
Find information about how to participate in the Child Care Assistance Program as a provider.
Read the provider guidebook
Visit our Become a Child Care Provider page to learn how.
Learn more about licensing
W9
CCAP Provider Agreement
SFN 23 - Approved Relative Application
SFN 433 - Child Abuse and Neglect Background Inquiry Form
Attendance Record Form
Child Care Workforce Benefit Verification form (SFN 354)
Non-CCAP Infant & Toddler Bonus - Monthly Attendance Reporting
CCAP Provider Guidebook
Early Childhood Workforce Registry (formerly Growing Futures) Resources: Set up an individual account Sign up for the "Getting Started" training
Sliding Fee Scale
Child Care Licensing
CCAP Flyer
CCAP Postcard
CCAP Billing Training
Workforce Benefit Flyer
Workforce Benefit Postcard
Workforce Benefit Printable Overview
General CCAP Information for Providers
Tips for Registering as a CCAP Provider
How to Upload a Document in the Self-Service Portal (SSP)
How CCAP Payments Work
The Infant and Toddler Bonus is now available to providers who are quality rated Step 2 or higher. Instead of receiving a percentage-based bonus, eligible providers will receive a flat rate of $200 per infant and $115 per toddler. Under the new approach, the bonus will be available for all infants and toddlers in the provider’s care, not just those participating in CCAP.
For infants and toddlers who are not receiving CCAP benefits, providers will need to fill out the Infant Toddler Bonus Form. Note: The form is only required for infants and toddlers who are not receiving CCAP benefits.
Click here to access the Infant and Toddler Bonus form
The accordion below lists steps for how to complete the form.
The Infant and Toddler Bonus Form is required only for infants and toddlers who are not receiving Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) benefits.
Providers should complete one form per month that includes all eligible non-CCAP infants and toddlers in their care.
The form is completed after care has occurred. For example, care provided in January should be reported after the month ends and submitted no later than Feb. 4 in order to receive the February payment.
Click here to fill out the Infant and Toddler Bonus form
When you open the form, you will first be asked to enter information about your child care.
This includes:
Your provider or facility name
License number
Bright & Early QRIS rating (Step 2, Step 3, or Step 4)
A contact name for the person completing the form
An email address that is regularly monitored
All information should match your licensing records to avoid delays in processing or overpayments.
Next, you will enter information for each infant or toddler in your care who is not enrolled in CCAP and qualifies for the bonus.
For every child, you will provide the following:
The child’s first and last name
Date of birth
Age category Age categories are divided into birth through 17 months and 18 through 36 months
Service month you are reporting Example: January 2026.
Please do not add additional spaces to any of the entries.
Each child must be entered separately. The form allows you to add multiple children before submitting.
For each child listed, you will report attendance for the service month after the child has attended care. This includes the number of hours the child attended care and, if prompted, the number of days or hours attended. Attendance must reflect actual care provided rather than scheduled time. The child must attend 40 hours per month in order to qualify for the Infant Toddler Bonus.
For example, January attendance should be reported in early February and submitted by February 4.
Accurate attendance reporting is essential, as submissions are subject to review and audit.
At the end of each child’s entry, you will be asked to answer verification questions required under State Law. These questions confirm that the child is not receiving CCAP, that all information submitted is accurate, that bonus funds will be used for child-care-related expenses only, and that you understand the information may be audited by the Department. Selecting “Yes” certifies your responses.
Before submitting, review your entries to ensure all eligible children are included, and all information is complete. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation email for your records.
After submission, HHS will review and audit the information provided. Bonus payments for non-CCAP infants and toddlers are issued monthly. For example, care provided in January and reported by Feb. 4 will be included in the February payment cycle.
You do not need to complete this form for CCAP-enrolled children, as those bonuses are applied automatically through the CCAP system.
Is the Infant and Toddler Bonus based on the number of children enrolled or program capacity?
The bonus is based on the number of children attending care for at least 40 hours per month, not on licensed capacity.
When should I submit the Infant Toddler Bonus Form?
The form should be completed after the service month ends. For example, January care must be submitted by Feb. 4 to be included in the February payment.
When will I receive the Infant and Toddler Bonus for children who are not enrolled in CCAP?
Bonuses are issued after attendance is reported and verified. Care provided in January and submitted by Feb. 4 will be paid in February, assuming the provider is rated Step 2 or higher.
Is the Infant and Toddler Bonus for all children or only for non-CCAP families?
The bonus applies to all infants and toddlers. CCAP children are paid automatically, while non-CCAP children must be reported using the Infant Toddler Bonus Form.
How many hours must a child attend to qualify for the Infant and Toddler Bonus?
Children must attend care for at least 40 hours during the service month to be eligible.
Where can I find Market Rate Survey data?
View Market Rate Survey information on the Child Care Assistance Program page .
Where do I report infant and toddler enrollment for the Infant and Toddler Bonus?
Non-CCAP infant and toddler enrollment is reported through the Non-CCAP Infant Toddler Bonus Verification Form, which will soon be available on the Child Care Assistance Information for Providers page. CCAP infant and toddler enrollment continues to be reported through the CCAP portal.
Visit Bright & Early ND to learn more about the process, benefits and resources available to support participation.
North Dakota needs current information from childcare providers to evaluate Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) reimbursement rates.
Your response matters. If too few providers complete the Market Rate Survey, North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) may not have enough current market information to update CCAP reimbursement rates to reflect current costs.
The survey helps HHS understand changes in childcare rates, operating costs, inflation, capacity and the childcare landscape across North Dakota.
Click the button below to complete the survey.
Takes approximately 20–30 minutes
Have your childcare license number ready
Complete one survey for each licensed location
Complete the survey
Annual update and Market Rate Survey HHS in partnership with Child Care Aware® of North Dakota
Due to funding limitations, CCAP implemented a waitlist beginning Dec. 1, 2025. Below is an overview of what providers should expect.
Who is Not Subject to the Waitlist
The following households are not placed on the waitlist:
Families receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Families participating in the Crossroads program
Waitlist Placement and Priority
Families who are otherwise eligible for CCAP and not exempt will be placed on the waitlist, including those applying for the workforce benefit, after completing an application and meeting all eligibility requirements.
Priority for the waitlist is given to:
Families experiencing homelessness
Families with income between 0–30% of State Median Income (SMI)
Moving Families Off the Waitlist
Families remain on the waitlist until funding becomes available or they are removed due to withdrawal, ineligibility, or lack of contact.
Eligibility begins the first day of the month the family is approved off the waitlist, once all required information is received.
What Providers Should Know
CCAP will notify families when funding becomes available and they can be moved from the waitlist
Providers should encourage families to keep their contact information current to avoid delays or removal from the waitlist.
Thank you to everyone who attended the November 2024 CCAP Policy Update & Provider Insight sessions!
If you missed the session or would like to review the information, you can view the presentation here .
Check back for information about future events.
Printable Childcare Workforce Benefit overview
The Child Care Workforce Benefit is designed to support the dedicated employees of licensed child care programs in North Dakota. This benefit aims to alleviate the cost of child care and enhance the well-being of our valuable workforce. This effort was made possible by the ND Child Care Initiative.
What is the Child Care Workforce Benefit?
This benefit is tailored to help licensed child care providers in North Dakota recruit and retain employees by providing help with child care costs.
Eligible employees may receive the benefit even if their children are enrolled in a program other than where the parent works.
Eligible employees, regardless of their household income will receive CCAP payments for their child care costs up to the full-time state max rate and also have their co-payment waived.
Who is Eligible?
Employees who live in North Dakota.
Child care employees who work at least an average of 25 hours per week at a ND licensed child care program or ND tribally licensed program.
How Do Employees Apply?
Employee completes a CCAP application.
If employees are already receiving CCAP, they will just need to complete the SFN 354 and email it to applyforhelp@nd.gov . If you have trouble downloading this form, find help by clicking here .
Why Participate?
The Child Care Workforce Benefit is an alternative to offering employees a discounted rate for their own children attending the child care program where they work.
You can use this as a recruiting tool when posting open employment opportunities.
How Do I Participate as an Employer?
If you are already accepting CCAP children, there is nothing new that you need to do.
If you are not, you will need to create an account in the Provider Self-Service Portal (SSP) and provide a W-9 to the CCAP state office. See the CCAP Provider Self-Service Portal section of this page to get started in the SSP.
Where Can My Staff Learn About Eligibility and How to Participate?
Full details for employees can be found on the CCAP webpage .
Questions?
For questions about the Child Care Workforce Benefit email ccap@nd.gov .
Check out our latest training covering all things related to billing for CCAP. All providers receiving payments from the Child Care Assistance Program should complete this brief, 15-minute session.
Take the training
CCAP requires attendance records to verify attendance of children in a provider's care. These records are uploaded in the provider SSP .
If you already have an attendance form you use, you can upload that document in the SSP. If you do not have your own form, you can use the Child Care Attendance Record SFN1220 . This is a weekly form, but rows can be labeled and used for one month if all children fit. One form can be used for multiple families.
Forms should be uploaded at the end of the month and are due two months after care is given. For example: If care was given in October, the attendance record would be due in December.
Attendance records are not used to calculate payment.
Questions? Email ccap@nd.gov .
View an example attendance record
The SSP is where you can certify enrollment, check payment status and more. Get started by watching a video with tips for registering as a child care provider . You can find help and training topics below.
Note: You will be asked to enter your EIN/SSN each time you log in.
Watch a video with tips for registering as a Child Care Assistance Provider .
Before getting started: Be prepared to fully finish the registration process as the system will not save your place. This should take about 10 minutes. If a W9 and current provider license are not already on file, you will be prompted to upload them.
On the Child Care Provider Registration screen, you will see a message that says you are "already known to SPACES." You will need to enter your SPACES ID. This can be found on the bottom of any notice from HHS, shown as "Prov #."
Once you've entered this ID, be sure to click "LINK ACCOUNT."
Whe you reach the Upload Documents screen, if your documents are already on file with our office you can skip this step by clicking "Next."
Click here to view a training guide for creating a North Dakota login .
Go to https://dhsprovider.dhs.nd.gov/
Under CCAP Providers, click “Sign In.”
If you do not already have a North Dakota login, click on “Create an account.”
Fill out the requested information to create your North Dakota login. Note: Items with the asterisk (*) sign are required.
An activation code will be sent to the email you provided. Enter the activation code and click confirm.
You will see a confirmation that your account has been activated.
Click “Return to online service” to log into the SSP.
Click here for a visual training guide for registering as a State Licensed Provider.
Before getting started:
Be prepared to fully finish the registration process as the system will not save your place. This should take about 10 minutes.
If a W9 is not already on file, you will be prompted to upload one.
Go to https://dhsprovider.dhs.nd.gov/ . Under CCAP Providers, click “Sign In.”
Enter the login credentials for your North Dakota login account and click “Sign In.”
Click the drop-down box and select the license category that applies to you. Once you’ve selected your license type, enter your Provider Tax Identification Number and License Expiration Date. Click “Verify.” If you receive a message that your provider license number is not known, contact your licensing specialist for assistance. If you are known to the system, the name of your daycare will be shown. Click “Next” to confirm.
A W9 is required for In State Providers. If one is not already on file, you will be prompted to upload one. Click “Provider Registration & Verification” to continue.
On the Provider Details screen verify the information shown. If anything is incorrect, reach out to your licensor to update. Click “Next” to continue.
On the License Address Details screen verify the information shown is correct, then click “Next.” If anything is incorrect, reach out to your licensor to update.
Enter your banking information or confirm the details if it is already on file. If you would like to apply for a direct deposit exemption, click the box for a dropdown menu.
On the W9 Details screen enter the information on listed on your W9. If details are already on file they will be automatically filled in. Verify or edit if needed, then click “Next.”
If a W9 is needed you will be prompted to upload one. If one is already on file you will not be prompted.
Read the provider agreement, then click the "I have read and agree" box. Click next to finish the registration process.
If you were prompted to upload a W9, you will see a message that your registration request has been submitted. Please allow two business days for registration approval. If were not prompted to upload a W9 and you see this screen, log out and back in from the “My Account” menu.
Click here for a visual training guide for how to register as an Out of State, Tribal or Military Provider.
Before getting started:
Be prepared to fully finish the registration process as the system will not save your place. This should take about 10 minutes.
If a W9 and current provider license are not already on file, you will be prompted to upload them.
Go to https://dhsprovider.dhs.nd.gov/ . Under CCAP Providers, click “Sign In.”
Enter the login credentials for your North Dakota login account and click “Sign In.”
Click the drop-down box and select the license category that applies to you. Once you’ve selected your license type, enter your Provider Tax Identification Number and License Expiration Date. Click “Verify.” If you are known to SPACES you will be prompted to link your account.
A W9 and copy of your provider license are required. If these are not already on file, you will be prompted to upload them. Click “Provider Registration & Verification” to continue.
On the Provider Details screen verify the information shown. If anything is incorrect, you may edit as needed. Click “Next” to continue.
On the License Address Details screen verify the information shown is correct, then click “Next.” If anything is incorrect, you may edit as needed.
Enter your banking information or confirm the details if it is already on file. If you would like to apply for a direct deposit exemption, click the box for a dropdown menu.
On the W9 Details screen enter the information on listed on your W9. If details are already on file they will be automatically filled in. Verify or edit if needed, then click “Next.”
If documentation is needed you will be prompted to upload it.
Read the provider agreement, then click the "I have read and agree" box. Click next to finish the registration process.
If you were prompted to upload a W9, you will see a message that your registration request has been submitted. Please allow two business days for registration approval. If were not prompted to upload a W9 and you see this screen, log out and back in from the “My Account” menu.
Click here for a visual training guide for registering as an Approved Relative Provider
Before getting started have the following documents ready:
W9
SFN 23 - Approved Relative Application
SFN 433 - Child Abuse and Neglect Background Inquiry (for all household members over the age of 18)
Verification of relation to the children that care will be provided for (birth certificates, adoption papers, court records)
Verification of SSN or EIN
Note: Be prepared to fully finish the registration process as the system will not save your place. This should take about 10 minutes.
Go to https://dhsprovider.dhs.nd.gov/ .
Under CCAP Providers, click “Sign In.”
Enter the login credentials for your North Dakota login account.
Click the drop-down box and select the license category that applies to you. Once you’ve selected your license type, enter your Provider Tax Identification Number. Click verify.
If you are known to SPACES you will be asked to enter your SPACES ID, then click link account. Note: Your SPACES ID can be found on notices you receive from CCAP.
As an Approved Relative Provider you will need to upload the documents listed in the “Approved Relatives” column. Click “Provider Registration & Verification” to continue.
Verify the business details in the system. Click "Next."
Verify the License Address Details are correct, then click "Next."
Enter your banking details to enroll for direct deposit. If your info is already on file, it will be populated. If you would like to verify the details, click the boxes with *** to display the information. If you would like to apply for a direct deposit exemption, click the box for a dropdown menu.
Verify the details of your W9.
Upload the required documentation. Use the dropdown box to select the type of document you are uploading. Click "Next" when you are finished.
Read through the provider agreement. Click the “I have read and agree” box, then click next to finish the registration process. If you would like a copy of the provider agreement, click here.
You will see a confirmation that you have successfully completed the registration request process. If you are applying to become an Approved Relative Provider, please allow up to 30 days for approval. If already an Approved Relative Provider and are registering for the SSP, please allow up to 2 business days for approval.
Click here for a visual training guide for how to use the SSP.
The Dashboard is the first page you will see when logging into the SSP. This is where you can find messages, certify enrollment, view payment history and submit attendance. You can return to this page by clicking “Dashboard” in the top menu.
My Associations will show children that are linked to you. If children are missing from your associations, contact the human service zone office. Click here for a directory.
This is where you can view all your documents or upload new ones.
This is where you can submit a registration fee. Note: This is only available for center or group licensed providers. A registration fee can only be submitted once per child in a year.
Find frequently asked questions about the CCAP Provider SSP.
Use the "My Account" dropdown to access additional features such as communication settings and profile access settings.
Payments from CCAP must be paid to the provider, and cannot be paid to the family.
Click here for a visual training guide for how to certify enrollment and view payment details.
The Child Care Assistance Program provides payments based on enrollment. Each month providers must “certify” enrollment.
In the Certification for Current/Past Months section of your SSP Dashboard, click “Not Certified” for the month you are certifying for.
For each child in your care, click the circle under status and enter the amount you are billing for. When you are finished, click “Certify.” Note: If you did not certify each child in your care, you will see “Partially Certified” as the status. Children that have an amount entered will still be processed even though the month shows partially certified.
For a certification that has not been paid:
Click "Certified" from the Certification for Current/Past Months.
Make the changes needed, then click "Certify" to save.
For a certification that has been paid:
Click "Certified" from the Certification for Current/Past Months.
Make the changes needed, enter a reason for the update, then click "Update."
Click "Certify" to save.
Click "View Certifications & Payment Activity."
Click "View Payment" for the service month you are looking for. A dropdown will appear with payment details.
Click here for a visual training guide for how to submit an attendance record through the SSP.
Click “Upload” in the Attendance Submission for Current/Past Months Note: If you do not already have an attendance form that you use, you can download one.
Add your attendance form. Select attendance as the document type. Click “Upload.”
Once you have submitted your attendance form you will be returned to the Dashboard. The attendance status for the month you uploaded will show “Submitted.”
Click here for a visual training guide for how to submit a registration fee.
Note: This is only available for center or group licensed providers. A registration fee can only be submitted once per child in a year.
Click “My Registration Fee” in the top menu.
Click “Submit.”
Enter the registration fee charged for each child then click “Submit.”
You will be returned to the My Registration Fee screen, where you will see the total amount submitted for each year. Repeat the same steps to submit a registration fee for additional children who join your care.
Watch a video to learn how to upload a document , or follow along with the steps below.
In the top menu of the dashboard click "View Statements & Documents," then "Upload Documents."
Drag the document into the upload space, or click the "Click Here to Browse" option to select from a location on your computer.
Under Document Type click "Select." Choose the type of document you are uploading from the list.
If applicable select the year, then the month for the document. Note: This would be needed for attendance records.
Review the information you have entered.
Click "Upload."
North Dakota Health and Human Services will be making updates to the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) in response to the rapid growth in program participants. To ensure the longevity of the program’s ability to effectively help working parents and child care providers, adjustments have been made to the benefits for families and bonuses for providers.
Beginning January 1, 2026, CCAP State Max Rates for care will change. Providers and families will see a decrease in the maximum amount that CCAP will cover for child care.
The infant and toddler rate will continue at the 75 th percentile of the market rate.
Preschool, school-age and part-time care will be set at the 50 th percentile of the market rate.
All rates reflect data from the most current Cost Analysis and Market Rate Survey.
Some families may have to pay a remaining balance if their cost of care is more than the max rate.
Families with income under 30% of the state median income (SMI) and CCAP Workforce Benefit families will continue to have their copay waived.
The increase in participation has also resulted in the need for a waitlist to receive child care assistance. Beginning Dec. 1, 2025, new applicants may need to be added to a waitlist before they can start receiving child care assistance. Families with income at or below 30% of the state median income (SMI) and households experiencing homelessness will receive priority consideration for child care assistance.
Families will not be placed on the waitlist if they are currently enrolled in the Child Care Assistance Program . They will be added to the waitlist if they stop receiving Child Care Assistance Program benefits and re-apply.
People who apply for the Child Care Assistance Program Workforce Benefit will need to go on the waitlist to receive benefits if they are currently not enrolled in CCAP.
Bonuses that are paid to providers based on their Bright and Early ND quality rating will also be changing. Starting Jan. 1, there will no longer be a bonus for a provider with a Step 2 quality rating and the amount of bonuses will decrease. Bonuses will only be provided to providers that are Step 3 and 4. This will be an incentive to encourage providers to provide higher quality care.
New bonuses are: Step 3 – 5% Step 4 – 10%
The Infant and Toddler Bonus is now available to providers who are quality rated Step 2 or higher. Instead of receiving a percentage-based bonus, eligible providers will receive a flat rate of $200 per infant and $115 per toddler. Under the new approach, the bonus will be available for all infants and toddlers in the provider’s care, not just those participating in CCAP.
Visit Bright and Early ND to learn more about the process, benefits and resources available to support participation.
For more information, visit the North Dakota Health and Human Services Child Care Assistance Program webpage. CCAP information for families CCAP information for providers
Join us for a webinar to learn more about changes to CCAP on Dec. 11 at 1 p.m. CT. Click here to join the meeting on Microsoft Teams.
For questions about the Child Care Assistance Program , visit hhs.nd.gov/ccap-providers or contact the Customer Support Center by email at applyforhelp@nd.gov , phone Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Central Time at 866-614-6005 or 701-328-1000, 711 (TTY) or mail to Customer Support Center, P.O. Box 5562, Bismarck, ND 58506. You can also contact a local human service zone office.
A variety of programs, grants, awards and incentives are available to support child care providers. Click here to learn more.
North Dakota Health and Human Services will be making updates to the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) in response to the rapid growth in program participants. To ensure the longevity of the program’s ability to effectively help working parents and child care providers, adjustments have been made to the benefits for families.
Effective April 1, 2026, HHS will implement an updated age limit and minimum attendance requirement for CCAP payments. The updates are as follows:
A child must attend child care for a minimum of 40 hours in the service month to be eligible for a CCAP payment. This requirement also applies to children who have a parent receiving CCAP benefits through the Child Care Workforce Benefit.
This change will help ensure that CCAP payments better reflect the actual use of child care services.
To align CCAP policy with state law, CCAP payments will be available through the month a child turns 12 years old. The following month, providers will no longer be eligible to request a CCAP payment for that child.
No other CCAP eligibility, payment, certification, or reporting requirements are changing at this time. Providers and families should continue to follow existing CCAP processes.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, CCAP State Max Rates for care will change. Providers and families will see a decrease in the maximum amount that CCAP will cover for child care. This means that some families may have to pay a remaining balance if their cost of care is more than the maximum rate.
Families with income under 30% of the state median income (SMI) and CCAP Workforce Benefit families will continue to have their copay waived.
The table below shows allowable monthly maximums for full-time care (25 or more hours per week) effective Jan. 1, 2026. Rates are grouped by age and provider type.
Provider Type Provider Codes Infant (Birth through 17 months) Toddler (18 months through 2 years) Preschool (3-5 years) Other (6 up to 13) CENTER C, E, K, M $1,240 $1,124 $940 $800 LICENSED FAMILY/GROUP F, G, H $900 $880 $740 $700 SELF-DECLARED/ TRIBAL REGISTERED S, R $646 $600 $531 $529 APPROVED RELATIVE $422 $398 $351 $348
The table below shows allowable monthly maximums for part-time care (less than 25 hours per week) effective Jan. 1, 2026. Rates are grouped by age and provider type.
Provider Type Provider Codes Infant (Birth through 17 months) Toddler (18 months through 2 years) Preschool (3-5 years) Other (6 up to 13) CENTER C, E, K, M $546 $529 $489 $416 LICENSED FAMILY/GROUP F, G, H $416 $393 $385 $364 SELF-DECLARED/ TRIBAL REGISTERED S, R $284 $283 $276 $275 APPROVED RELATIVE $186 $187 $182 $181
State provider rates will be rounded down when the rate is not a full dollar amount. Allowable Maximum for Registration fees: Provider Type: C, E, K, M, F, G, H - $150 per calendar year
The increase in participation has also resulted in the need for a waitlist to receive child care assistance. Beginning Dec. 1, 2025, new applicants may need to be added to a waitlist before they can start receiving child care assistance. Families with income at or below 30% of SMI and households experiencing homelessness will receive priority consideration for child care assistance.
Families will not be placed on the waitlist if they are currently enrolled in CCAP. They will be added to the waitlist if they stop receiving CCAP benefits and re-apply.
People who apply for the CCAP Workforce Benefit will need to go on the waitlist to receive benefits if they are currently not enrolled in CCAP.
Payments will not be backdated for the time families were on the waitlist.
Copays will continue to be waived for families receiving the CCAP Workforce Benefit. People who apply for the CCAP Workforce Benefit will need to go on the waitlist to receive benefits if they are currently not enrolled in CCAP.
The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps pay a portion of the cost of child care for working families, or families in training or education programs.
Families who meet certain eligibility criteria qualify for the program.
Find out if you qualify for CCAP.
CCAP data dashboard
Find a child care provider
Information for providers
Submit an application in the Self-Service Portal (SSP).
Print an application and return it to the Customer Support Center or in person at your local Human Service Zone office.
Submit a request to have an application mailed to you and return it to the Customer Support Center.
Documents to have when you apply:
Completed CCAP application
Driver’s license or picture ID
Birth certificates for the children
Verification of court ordered child support or court ordered spousal support deduction (if applicable)
Proof of income (last month and current month)
Social Security Number (SSN) for the caretaker and for each child Note: The SSN helps with accurate identification. If you do not wish to give SSNs it will not affect your participation in this program.
Download the CCAP Application Checklist (pdf)
You can use the SSP to apply online, complete a review and much more for CCAP and other financial help programs. Getting started is easy.
Click here to go to the SSP.
Create a North Dakota login. If you already have one, you can skip this step.
Link your case to your North Dakota login.
If you need help, videos and step-by-step instructions can be found on the SSP Help page .
The Customer Support Center can help you:
report changes to your case
answer questions about your case or programs
This is also where you will send documents related to your case either by email, fax or mail.
Contact the center at: Email: applyforhelp@nd.gov Phone: 1.866.614.6005 or 701-328-1000; 711 (TTY) Fax: 701.328.1006 Mail: Customer Support Center P.O. Box 5562 Bismarck ND 58506
If you need help using the SSP, find videos and step-by-step instructions on the SSP Help page .
Families with who meet certain eligibility criteria qualify for the program.
Must be participating in an allowable activity:
Working (paid employment or self-employed)
Allowable education or training programs
Temporary allowable activity:
In situations of homelessness, looking for employment, education or training activities, and housing is considered allowable
Age limits:
Once children are determined eligible, they may receive services until the eligibility period in which they turn 13 years old expires
A child with special needs may qualify up to age 19
Note: State-licensed child care providers can receive CCAP payments until the end of the month when a child turns 12 years old. Starting the following month, they can no longer receive CCAP payments for that child due to the age limits on their license. Providers licensed by other agencies, such as tribal or out-of-state providers, may still be able to receive CCAP payments depending on the rules of their licensing agency.
Asset Limits:
A family’s assets cannot exceed $1,000,000
Monthly income from wages, child support, pensions, veteran’s benefits or other sources must be less than the CCAP income limits
Copayment:
In most cases, families pay a co-payment, which is a portion of the child care cost. A co-payment is determined on a sliding fee scale based on a family's income and household size. Use our Worksheet for Calculating Copay to determine your co-pay amount.
The table below shows the maximum monthly income a household can earn to qualify for the program (before taxes).
Families with ongoing CCAP benefits prior to July 1, 2024, with a state median income between 75% to 85% will be eligible for an additional 18 month period at their next review.
Family Size (Adults and Children) Maximum Monthly Income 2 $5,633 3 $6,959 4 $8,284 5 $9,610 6 $10,935 7 $11,184 8 $11,432
Effective Oct. 1, 2026 - Sept. 30, 2027
A rapid increase in CCAP participation has resulted in the need for a waitlist to receive child care assistance. Beginning Dec. 1, 2025, new applicants may need to be added to a waitlist before they can start receiving child care assistance. Families with income at or below 30% of SMI and households experiencing homelessness will receive priority consideration for child care assistance.
Families will not be placed on the waitlist if they are currently enrolled in CCAP. Families will be added to the waitlist if their CCAP case closes and they reapply.
Payments will not be backdated for the time families were on the waitlist.
The following households are not placed on the waitlist:
Families receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Families participating in the Crossroads program
Families who are otherwise eligible for CCAP and not exempt will be placed on the waitlist, including those applying for the workforce benefit, after completing an application and meeting all eligibility requirements.
Priority for the waitlist is given to:
Families experiencing homelessness
Families with income between 0–30% of State Median Income (SMI)
Families remain on the waitlist until funding becomes available or they are removed due to withdrawal, ineligibility, or lack of contact.
Eligibility begins the first day of the month the family is approved off the waitlist, once all required information is received.
CCAP will notify families when funding becomes available and they can be moved from the waitlist. Families will have 10 days to respond.
Families should keep their contact information current to avoid delays or removal from the waitlist.
Are you employed by a licensed childcare provider? Sign up for the Child Care Workforce Benefit today!
You can receive payments for your child care costs up to the full-time state max rate.
Your co-payment will be waived.
Live in North Dakota.
Be employed by a licensed child care provider in North Dakota.
Be a child care employee who works at least an average of 25 hours per week at a ND licensed child care program or ND tribally licensed program.
Meet Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) eligibility requirements (except for income limits).
Eligible employees may receive the benefit even if their children are enrolled in a program other than where the parent works.
Fill out a CCAP application. Already on CCAP? All you need to do is complete the Child Care Workforce Benefit Verification form (SFN 354) and send it to applyforhelp@nd.gov .
Complete the Child Care Workforce Benefit Verification form (SFN 354) with your employer and submit it with your application or send to applyforhelp@nd.gov . If you have trouble downloading this form, find help by clicking here .
Note: Although the benefit is available to all licensed child care program employees regardless of income, the employee’s household income is required to process applications and to inform the effectiveness of the benefit.
CCAP payments are based on the Worksheet for Calculating Copay and state provider rates (see below). CCAP sends payment to the provider.
Watch a video explaining how CCAP payments work here.
The table below shows allowable monthly maximums for full-time care (25 or more hours per week) effective Jan. 1, 2026. Rates are grouped by age and provider type.
Provider Type Provider Codes Infant (Birth through 17 months) Toddler (18 months through 2 years) Preschool (3-5 years) Other (6 up to 13) CENTER C, E, K, M $1,240 $1,124 $940 $800 LICENSED FAMILY/GROUP F, G, H $900 $880 $740 $700 SELF-DECLARED/ TRIBAL REGISTERED S, R $646 $600 $531 $529 APPROVED RELATIVE $422 $398 $351 $348
The table below shows allowable monthly maximums for part-time care (less than 25 hours per week) effective Jan. 1, 2026. Rates are grouped by age and provider type.
Provider Type Provider Codes Infant (Birth through 17 months) Toddler (18 months through 2 years) Preschool (3-5 years) Other (6 up to 13) CENTER C, E, K, M $546 $529 $489 $416 LICENSED FAMILY/GROUP F, G, H $416 $393 $385 $364 SELF-DECLARED/ TRIBAL REGISTERED S, R $284 $283 $276 $275 APPROVED RELATIVE $186 $187 $182 $181
State provider rates will be rounded down when the rate is not a full dollar amount. Allowable Maximum for Registration fees: Provider Type: C, E, K, M, F, G, H - $150 per calendar year
A childcare certificate is issued to a family and provider once they are determined eligible, and have chosen an eligible provider for the program.
The certificate contains:
the name and address of the parent/caretaker
the period of time covered by the certificate
the monthly co-payment for which the family is responsible
the children who are eligible to receive child care
the level of care and provider each child is eligible for
As a participant in CCAP there are certain rights that protect you. You have the right to:
review the policy manual.
withdraw your application prior to receiving benefits.
appeal and request a fair hearing if you disagree with any decision made by CCAP to deny, reduce or terminate benefits. Note: Appeals must be requested within 30 days from the print date on the notice that is being appealed.
If you give false information on purpose, it might result in legal action against you (criminal or civil). It might also mean we reduce your benefits, take money back from you or disqualify you from benefits temporarily or permanently.
Families have the right to choose their own childcare provider. Providers may be nonprofit, for profit, religious, or relatives. Families must contact the Customer Support Center for information about licensing, self-declaration or approval of relative providers.
To receive payment providers must be at least 18 years old, licensed, self-declaration, tribal registered or an approved relative. An approved relative must be related to the child by marriage, blood relationship or court decree, and:
a grandparent or great grandparent
an aunt or uncle
a sibling
Approved relative providers can not live in the same home as the child for whom care is being provided.
If your child care provider requires you to sign a contract, read it carefully before signing so you are aware of all your obligations. HHS is not bound by or responsible for either party’s compliance with the terms of any contract entered between a provider and a parent/caretaker.
Families must be given unlimited access to their child(ren) in child care and to the providers who are providing the care. This access is to be during normal operating hours of the child care facility.
The information you provide is held in confidence and used solely for program administration.
The Privacy Act of 1974 requires the following information be provided when individuals are requested to disclose their social security numbers:
Disclosure of the social security number is voluntary and it is requested for identification purposes.
Failure to disclose this information will not affect participation in this program.
You have the right to file a written complaint if you believe that you or members of your household have been discriminated against by reason of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, political beliefs, handicap, or status with respect to marriage or public assistance.
A written complaint may be filed in the following ways:
with your local human service zone office
by mail: ND Health and Human Services office for Civil Rights, Legal Advisory Unit 600 E. Boulevard Ave., Dept 325 Bismarck, ND 58505-0250.
by phone: (701) 328-2311 or 711 (TTY)
by fax: (701) 328-2173
by email: dhslau@nd.gov
by contacting the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services; Office for Civil Rights 200 Independence Ave. SW, HHH Building, Room 509-F Washington, DC 20201 (800) 368-1019 or TDD (800) 537-7697 fax (202) 619-3437
Changes to case closures
Starting May 1, 2025, CCAP has made the following changes:
Child Care Assistance cases will no longer be closed if the Department loses contact with a family. Instead, payments may be temporarily suspended if mail is returned and the family cannot be reached.
Child Care Assistance cases will no longer be closed based on request, however any provider associations will be closed. This will allow families easier access to receive CCAP payments during their prior approval period if their situation changes without having to reapply for the program.
These changes have been made to comply with federal requirements.
Documents:
FAQs - Find answers to frequently Asked Questions about the Child Care Assistance Program.
Flyer - Child Care Assistance Program Overview (pdf)
Brochure - Child Care Assistance Program - Helping Families with Child Care Costs (pdf)
Policy Manual - CCAP Policy manual
Sliding Fee Scale
Related Links:
Child Care and Development Fund - Find updates about the state plan.
2025 Market Rate Survey with Narrow Cost Analysis (pdf)
Information for CCAP Providers
Find a video and step-by-step instructions for how to report a change in child care needs on the Self-Service Portal (SSP) Help page.
HHS may be able to help with more than just your child care needs. Other programs you may qualify for include health care, food support and heating assistance.
Find other programs.
For help applying, questions about eligibility, or your existing case, contact the Customer Support Center:
Email: applyforhelp@nd.gov Phone: 1.866.614.6005 or 701-328-1000 711 (TTY) Fax: 701.328.1006 Mail: Customer Support Center P.O. Box 5562 Bismarck ND 58506
If you would like in-person help visit your local human service zone office .
State Office Contact Information:
Economic Assistance Policy Division Child Care Assistance Program 600 E Boulevard Avenue, Dept. 325 Bismarck ND 58505-0250
Phone: (701) 328-2332 Toll-Free: (800) 755-2716 (ND Only) 711 (TTY)
Email: dhseap@nd.gov
To file an appeal, fill out the SFN 162 Request for Hearing .
Once your appeal form is completed, click on the email to submit. You can attach additional files to support your appeal request.
Please review DN 295: Rights to a Hearing