Iowa Child Care Assistance — Child Care AssistanceIowa

Check if you qualify in Iowa

Enter your household size and monthly income to see if you qualify for child care subsidy in Iowa. Results are instant, nothing is stored.

For a household of 3, the limit to apply in Iowa is $3,643 a month (160% of the poverty level) and the limit to stay enrolled is $5,692 (250% of the poverty level).

This is an estimate based on gross monthly income and household size. It does not include copayments, waitlists, or other rules, and your state agency makes the final decision.

Iowa Child Care Assistance (CCA)

Iowa Child Care Assistance (CCA) is available to children of income-eligible parents who are employed or participate in academic or vocational training or PROMISE JOBS activities.

To be considered for Child Care Assistance, parents must qualify for Family Investment Program (FIP) and be responsible for a child who is under the age of 13.

To remain eligible, parents generally must work or attend school for an average of 32 hours per week or 28 hours if caring for a child with special needs.

What is the income limit for child care assistance in Iowa?

The initial income eligibility for child care assistance in Iowa is currently set at 160% of the federal poverty level or about $3,643 per month for a family of three. Families can remain eligible until their income reaches 250% of the federal poverty level.

Child care subsidy income limits by household size, Iowans
Household Size	160% FPLInitial Eligibility	250% FPLRedetermination
2	$2,885	$4,508
3	$3,643	$5,692
4	$4,400	$6,875
5	$5,157	$8,058
6	$5,915	$9,242
7	$6,672	$10,425
8	$7,429	$11,608

The income limits are presented as dollar amounts derived from a percentage of either the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) or the State Median Income (SMI) for 2026.

Families of special needs children qualify for child care assistance if they earn up to 210% of the federal poverty level, which is about $4,781 for a family of three.

How much is the family fee for child care assistance in Iowa?

Iowa sets a sliding-scale family fee based on family size and income. Iowa HHS publishes the fee schedule and updates it each July, so your fee may change from year to year.

How do I apply for child care assistance in Iowa?

You may now apply for the Child Care Assistance (CCA) program online at Iowa’s newest portal, Iowa Child Care Connect (C3) where you can easily apply and find child care availability near your home.

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services
Child Care Assistance (CCA)
(866) 448-4605