Last Updated on September 18, 2025 by Rachel

Alaska Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers: The No‑BS 2025 Guide

Last updated: September 2025

• This guide is written for Alaska single moms who need fast, accurate, step‑by‑step help getting child care paid for.
• All links below go to official Alaska or federal sources, plus a few established nonprofits serving Alaska families. We cite every fact.
• If you see anything outdated, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll verify and update within 48 hours.

Read our Editorial Standards.

Quick Help Box

• Call your regional Child Care Assistance office now to confirm what to submit and where to send it. Municipality of Anchorage: 907‑644‑5000; Central/Coastal (Wasilla): 907‑373‑4450; Northern & Southeast (thread): 907‑265‑3100 or toll‑free 855‑479‑2212. See full contacts below. Official contacts and emails.
• Download the child care application (form CC08), fill it out, attach proof of income and your work/school schedule, then submit it by email or in person to your regional office (emails listed below). Download CC08 application and forms.
• If your child has a disability or special need, ask for Alaska IN! (supplemental subsidy and provider support). Call 907‑269‑4500 or 888‑268‑4632. Alaska IN! overview.
• Need help finding an opening right now? Call thread (statewide Child Care Resource & Referral): 800‑278‑3723. thread locations and hours.
• Want a free/no‑cost option while you apply? Check Head Start/Early Head Start. Use the federal Head Start Locator to find sites near you. Head Start Locator (ECLKC).

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What Alaska’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) covers

Start here: CCAP helps pay for child care while you work, go to school, or attend approved training. In Alaska, CCAP is called “Parents Achieving Self‑Sufficiency” (PASS) and has four categories:

• PASS I: families on Alaska Temporary Assistance (ATAP)
• PASS II: families recently off ATAP, for up to 12 months
• PASS III: low‑to‑moderate income working or in school/training, not on ATAP
• PASS IV: children in Office of Children’s Services (OCS) protective services

Official PASS descriptions are here: Information for Parents and Families, PASS II, and PASS III.

Reality check:

• CCAP pays the provider a state‑set maximum rate for your area and provider type. You still pay your monthly family contribution (co‑pay) and any amount your provider charges above the state rate. State rate schedule PDF.
• Authorizations are usually issued for up to six months, and you’re typically required to update every six months to keep benefits.

Who qualifies (income, citizenship, activities, age)

Most important rule first: Alaska uses a sliding scale and caps eligibility at or below 85% of State Median Income (SMI). That cap is written directly in Alaska regulation. 7 AAC 41.335.

• The child must be under 13, and must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or qualified alien (this rule applies to the child). 7 AAC 41.350.
• The parent must be working, in approved training, or in school (PASS II/III). PASS II/III pages and (https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/ccare/Pass-III.aspx).
• Income is checked against the Family Income & Contribution Schedule used for CCAP co‑pays and maximums. The state posts it here: Child Care Forms – Family Income and Contribution Schedule.

Important: Alaska laws and plan documents say the income cap is tied to a percentage of SMI (up to 85%) and the state publishes the sliding‑fee schedule that controls co‑pays and cutoffs. Always verify your exact income cutoff and co‑pay with the current state schedule (see link above) or by calling your regional office.

Note on 2025 legislative changes you may hear about: The Legislature advanced proposals to expand eligibility and cap family contributions at 7% of income (e.g., HB 89/SB 95 discussions). Those provisions are policy proposals unless and until implemented by the Department and reflected in the active CCAP schedule/regulations. Check the current schedule or ask your regional office what is in effect today.

How much will Alaska CCAP actually pay?

CCAP pays up to a set maximum based on:

• your borough/census area (“rate region”),
• the child’s age, and
• provider type (licensed center vs. home vs. relative/in‑home).

Official maximums (state rate schedule) are here: Child Care Assistance Program Rate Schedule (PDF).

Below are selected examples (Full‑Time Month maximums, Licensed Center). These are the state‑pay caps before your co‑pay and before any “overage” your provider charges beyond the state rate.

Table 1. CCAP maximum state payment caps (Full‑Time Month, Licensed Center)

Source: Alaska CCAP Rate Schedule.

What this means in real life:

• If your Anchorage preschool charges $1,200\ast \ast /month,thestatecanpayupto\ast \ast$1,019 to that provider for a full‑time month. You still owe your monthly co‑pay plus any amount above the state rate (here, the “overage” could be $181 plus your co‑pay).
• Care is expensive statewide. The latest market survey found “typical” monthly tuition around $1,000\ast \ast forinfants,\ast \ast$950 for toddlers, $850\ast \ast forpreschoolers,and\ast \ast$707 for school‑age care (varies by region). Use this to gut‑check rates. thread summary of the 2023 Market Price Survey.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your provider about sliding‑scale discounts or multi‑child discounts.
• Call thread’s referral line (800‑278‑3723) and ask for current openings that “take CCAP and are at/near the state rate.”

Your monthly co‑pay (family contribution)

The state uses a published “Family Income & Contribution Schedule” to set co‑pays and the income cutoff. You’ll find it on the official forms page under “Child Care Family Income and Contribution Schedule (Current).” Open the forms page.

• Policy basis: family income limits may not exceed 85% of SMI (family‑size adjusted), per Alaska regulation. 7 AAC 41.335.
• The state has previously offered an online “contribution calculator,” but it is sometimes unavailable. If it’s down, call your regional office and ask them to quote your monthly co‑pay based on your gross income and family size. Families page (note about calculator).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your quoted co‑pay seems off, politely ask them to walk you through the exact line in the “Family Income & Contribution Schedule” they used for your family size and income. If a mistake is confirmed, ask them to correct it and send a revised notice. If unresolved, you can request a hearing using form CC46 on the same forms page.

Step‑by‑Step: Apply fast and right the first time

1. Pick or confirm an eligible provider.

• Use the state’s AKCCIS portal to search licensed programs and providers who participate in CCAP. Find a child care provider (AKCCIS). Or call thread for a curated list: 800‑278‑3723.
• Licensed centers/homes and approved relatives or in‑home caregivers can be paid by CCAP. Providers caring for more than four unrelated children without a license are illegal and not eligible for CCAP. Provider eligibility.

2. Gather documents.

• Proof of identity and Alaska residency.
• Proof of gross income for everyone in the household (pay stubs, self‑employment ledger, unearned income).
• Work schedule, school/training schedule, and your provider’s info.
• Any disability documentation if applying for Alaska IN! support. All application and supporting forms (CC08, CC36, CC39, etc.) are on the official forms page. Child Care Forms.

3. Complete and submit the application.

• Fill out CC08 and email or take it to your regional Child Care Assistance office (contacts/emails below). Keep a copy and get proof of submission. How to sign up + regional grantees and emails.

4. Watch for your authorization.

• If eligible, the state issues an authorization (often up to six months) that spells out approved hours and the start date. You must keep paying your co‑pay and any overage to your provider. PASS II/III details.

5. Keep your case current.

• Report changes (job, hours, income over the cutoff, provider) within 10 business days and renew every six months. Family responsibilities rule.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your case stalls, call your regional office and (politely) ask for a status check and if anything else is needed. If you get nowhere, call the Child Care Program Office main line 907‑269‑4500 or 888‑268‑4632 and ask for the Eligibility & Benefits Team. CCPO contacts.

Where to apply (regional contacts & emails)

Use the contacts below for PASS II/III families and providers. You can email your CC08 and documents to these addresses or ask how to submit securely.

Table 2. Regional Child Care Assistance offices

Source: Alaska Department of Health – Child Care Assistance Program (regional grantees listing).

For licensing complaints or questions (not subsidy), call:

• Child Care Program Office (statewide): 907‑269‑4500 or 888‑268‑4632.
• Municipality of Anchorage Child Care Licensing: 907‑343‑4758. CCPO contacts page.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If phone lines are jammed, email the listed address with “Single mom seeking CCAP – urgent” in the subject, include your name, child(ren) names/ages, city, provider name (if chosen), and your phone number. Follow up by phone the next business day.

Special situations that can boost help

• PASS I for families on ATAP (TANF): If you’re on cash assistance, child care is a supportive service—talk to your ATAP case manager about PASS I. ATAP and Families page.
• PASS IV for children in OCS protective services: Ask the OCS child care case manager assigned to you about PASS IV. Families page.
• Alaska IN! (for children with special needs): Additional subsidy to providers, on‑site inclusion support, and provider training. Call 907‑269‑4500 or 888‑268‑4632. Alaska IN! official page.
• Tribal child care assistance (for Alaska Native/American Indian families): Many Alaska Native organizations operate CCDF child care assistance. Example: Cook Inlet Tribal Council (Anchorage). Child Care Assistance line: 907‑793‑3300; general 907‑793‑3600. Ask your tribe’s family services office if they have CCDF. CITC services directory and CITC contact.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re not eligible for state CCAP or tribal CCDF, apply to Head Start/Early Head Start (free, income‑based) and ask about extended‑day/full‑day options. Use Alaska’s Head Start page and the national locator. Alaska DEED Head Start and Head Start Locator.

What documents you’ll likely need (save this)

• Photo ID and proof of Alaska residency.
• Proof of gross income for everyone in your household: pay stubs, award letters, self‑employment ledger (CC39), tips (CC38), etc.
• Work/school/training schedule and credits/enrollment proof (if in school).
• Provider information (license/approval, rates, hours).
• If applying for Alaska IN!: doctor/IEP/IFSP notes as requested on the IN! application.

All forms are posted on the official site: Child Care Forms (CC08, CC36, CC39, CC38, etc.).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t get a document quickly (e.g., employer letter), submit what you have and tell the office when the rest is coming. Ask if a temporary authorization is possible based on available verification—rules vary, but it never hurts to ask.

Common mistakes to avoid (learned the hard way)

• Not choosing an eligible provider. If your caregiver is caring for more than four unrelated children without a license, they’re not eligible for CCAP payments. Provider eligibility rules.
• Missing the six‑month renewal and losing your authorization. Set calendar reminders for 5 months and 5.5 months after your start date.
• Forgetting to report changes (new job, new hours, income over the limit, provider change) within 10 business days. 7 AAC 41.320.
• Assuming CCAP covers the full bill. You still owe your co‑pay and any provider charges above the state rate. Rate schedule and program overview.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you get a denial or a co‑pay you believe is wrong, ask for a review and, if needed, file a hearing request (form CC46) by the deadline on your notice. Forms page (CC46).

Realistic timelines (what to expect)

• Finding a spot: openings can be tight in many communities. Use AKCCIS and call thread to work multiple leads.
• Authorization period: if eligible, expect an authorization for up to six months, then renewal.
• Payments: CCAP pays the provider monthly on your behalf (minus your co‑pay). You pay your provider your co‑pay and any difference beyond the state rate.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you lose care mid‑authorization (provider closes or drops out), call your regional office immediately to switch providers and keep your authorization active. Then call thread for new openings.

If you need a Plan B or add‑ons

• Head Start/Early Head Start (free): school‑readiness programs for ages 0‑5. Use the locator to apply near you. How to find and apply and Alaska’s Head Start page (DEED).
• WIC (food benefits for kids under 5 and pregnant/postpartum moms). 2025‑2026 income guidelines are posted here; many working families qualify. Call 907‑465‑3100 for help. Alaska WIC (2025‑26 guidelines).
• Federal Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) and Dependent Care FSA: You may get up to 35% of up to $3,000\ast \ast inexpensesforonechild(\ast \ast$6,000 for two+), depending on income; the Dependent Care FSA exclusion is generally up to $5,000 per household. See IRS Publication 503 for details and limits. IRS Publication 503 (2024, current rules unless changed by law).

Diverse communities: tailored tips and resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: When calling, you don’t need to disclose orientation to qualify. Ask for programs with inclusive policies and flexible schedules. thread can filter referrals on program culture and policies. 800‑278‑3723.
• Single mothers with disabilities or parenting a child with disabilities: Ask for Alaska IN! when you submit CC08; this program can add supplemental funds and provider training to support inclusion. Alaska IN! details.
• Veteran single mothers: You may qualify for DoD fee assistance if you use a community provider and you’re connected to the military (Active, Guard/Reserve, certain civilians). Ask your base resource office; apply for CCAP at the same time to compare which is better for your budget. For Anchorage‑area Alaska Native veterans, also check CITC (907‑793‑3300).
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: The child’s citizenship/qualified status controls CCAP eligibility. If your child is a U.S. citizen, they can be eligible even if you are not. See 7 AAC 41.350. Eligibility rule (child status).
• Tribal‑specific resources: If you or your child is Alaska Native/American Indian, check your tribal CCDF program. In Anchorage, CITC Child Care Assistance 907‑793‑3300. In Nome region, contact Kawerak (907‑443‑4358) for tribal child care support. Also use Alaska’s Head Start list of tribal grantees for preschool‑age care. CITC contact, Kawerak child care page, and DEED Head Start grantee list.
• Rural single moms with limited access: Ask thread for “relative or in‑home” options that can be approved under CCAP, and programs that offer transportation. Also ask about programs participating in USDA’s CACFP (helps with food costs at providers). 800‑278‑3723.
• Single fathers: All the same CCAP rules apply. If you’re a dad with custody/placement and meet work/school and income rules, you can apply and receive CCAP.
• Language access: The state provides free interpreter services—tell the office your preferred language when you call. DPA language access & contact hub.

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (bookmark this)

Table 3. Fast links and numbers

Sources as linked.

Application checklist (print this)

• Completed and signed CC08 application.
• Proof of Alaska residency and identity.
• Proof of gross income for all household members (last 30 days pay stubs, self‑employment worksheet CC39, tips log CC38, award letters).
• Work/school/training schedule and proof (registration, class schedule, employment letter).
• Provider information (license/approval, hours, rates); if relative/in‑home, complete the provider approval packet listed on the forms page.
• If applying for Alaska IN!: medical/educational documents per the IN! application. All forms here.

Local organizations that often help families navigate child care

• thread (statewide CCR&R, referrals, inclusion support): 800‑278‑3723. thread locations & email.
• Cook Inlet Tribal Council (Anchorage area, Alaska Native/American Indian families): Child Care Assistance 907‑793‑3300; general 907‑793‑3600. CITC.
• Head Start/Early Head Start (multiple grantees statewide, some tribal): use the locator and Alaska’s grantee list to contact your local program directly. DEED Head Start and Head Start Locator.

Extra details single moms ask about (10 helpful FAQs)

1. Does Alaska cap income for CCAP?

• Yes. The maximum income to participate is tied to a percentage of State Median Income and may not exceed 85% of SMI, family‑size adjusted. The sliding‑fee schedule controls the exact cutoffs and co‑pays. 7 AAC 41.335 and Forms page (Family Income & Contribution Schedule).

2. How long is my authorization?

• Typically up to six months, then you renew with updated income and schedule. PASS II/III pages.

3. Can I use a relative or an in‑home caregiver?

• Yes, if the relative/in‑home caregiver meets approval and health/safety requirements. They must be approved for CCAP. Providers caring for more than four unrelated children without a license are illegal and ineligible. Become a CCAP Provider.

4. My child has a disability—can a provider get paid extra to support them?

• Yes. Ask for Alaska IN! which can add supplemental funding and training for your provider. Alaska IN!.

5. Does the parent’s immigration status matter?

• CCAP eligibility is tied to the child. The child must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or qualified alien. See 7 AAC 41.350. Eligibility rule.

6. I lost my job—what happens?

• You must report changes within 10 business days. Depending on the situation, your authorization may be adjusted. Talk to your regional office immediately. Family responsibilities rule.

7. How many hours will CCAP cover?

• Hours are based on your documented work/school/training schedule and your child’s need for care within the provider’s operating hours. PASS II/III pages.

8. Who do I call about a licensing complaint?

• State Child Care Program Office: 907‑269‑4500; Municipality of Anchorage licensing: 907‑343‑4758. CCPO contacts.

9. Are there other Alaska programs I should pair with CCAP?

• Yes: WIC (food benefits for kids under 5), Head Start/EHS, and (if on ATAP) PASS I. Links above.

10. Can CCAP pay more than the state rate?

• No. The state pays only up to the published maximum for your region/provider type/age group. You pay your co‑pay and any difference your provider charges above that rate. Rate schedule.

Reality checks & pro tips (don’t skip)

• Waitlists are common. Start with thread for openings and ask programs if they’ll reserve a spot pending your CCAP authorization.
• Compare options. For an infant in Anchorage, that state cap is $1,135\ast \ast atalicensedcenter.Ifaprovidercharges\ast \ast$1,400, you’ll owe your co‑pay plus $265\ast \ast inoverage.Ifanotherprovidercharges\ast \ast$1,150, your overage could drop to $15. Rate schedule.
• Re‑check your co‑pay at every raise or job change. The rule is to report changes within 10 business days—that protects you from overpayments and sudden bills. 7 AAC 41.320.

Quick numbers you’ll use a lot (and why)

Table 4. “Who to call for what”

Sources as linked in sections.

Compare provider rate caps (so you can shop smart)

Table 5. Selected monthly state caps (Licensed Center, Full‑Time Month)

Source: Alaska CCAP Rate Schedule (PDF).

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Alaska Department of Health (Child Care Program Office), Alaska Department of Education & Early Development (DEED), USDA/US HHS, and established nonprofits (thread, Cook Inlet Tribal Council).

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

Program rules, income limits, co‑pay amounts, and rate schedules can change at any time. Always confirm the latest Family Income & Contribution Schedule, your co‑pay, and regional rate caps with your regional Child Care Assistance office or the Child Care Program Office before making decisions. Use the official links and phone numbers in this guide to verify current information.

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Sources

• Alaska DOH – Child Care Assistance: Parents & Families, PASS I/II/III pages and contacts.
• Alaska DOH – CCAP Rate Schedule (maximum state payments by region/provider/age).
• Alaska Admin Code – 7 AAC 41.335 (income limit and sliding scale) and 7 AAC 41.350 (eligible child).
• Alaska DOH – Child Care Forms (CC08 and related forms).
• Alaska DOH – Alaska Inclusive Child Care Program (Alaska IN!).
• thread Alaska – statewide CCR&R and referral line.
• thread – 2023 Alaska Child Care Market Price Survey summary.
• IRS – Publication 503, Child and Dependent Care Expenses (CDCTC and DC‑FSA rules).
• Alaska WIC – 2025‑2026 income guidelines.
• Alaska DEED – Head Start (state program list); ECLKC Head Start Locator instructions.
• CITC – Child Care Assistance contact numbers.
• Kawerak – Tribal Child Care Assistance (Nome region) contact.

If you need something not covered here, tell us what city you’re in and your child’s age—we’ll help you map the fastest route to care and the exact office to call today.

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