Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers in New Jersey
New Jersey Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers: The Real-World Guide (2025)
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is written for New Jersey single moms who need clear answers, real dollar amounts, and fast steps to get childcare covered or at least more affordable. It reflects the latest policy changes as of August–September 2025.
Quick Help Box
- Call your county Child Care Resource & Referral agency (CCR&R) for hands‑on help: find your county’s office and phone on the official Find Your CCR&R page. State Child Care Helpline: 1‑800‑332‑9227. (childcarenj.gov)
- Important: New Jersey’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is paused for new applications as of August 1, 2025. Current families keep benefits if still eligible; no new children can be added to existing cases after July 31, 2025. See the official notice: CCAP Application Closed. (childcarenj.gov)
- If CCAP is closed to you, check free public preschool (for ages 3–4) in your district and Head Start/Early Head Start (birth–5). Use NJDOE announcements on preschool expansion and the Head Start locator: State preschool expansion news and Head Start: How to Apply + Locator. Head Start helpline: 1‑866‑763‑6481. (nj.gov, eclkcprod.eclkc.info)
- On TANF (WorkFirst NJ)? You can get child care arranged through your County Board of Social Services while you participate in work or training—generally with no copay. Start here: WFNJ Child Care Support. (nj.gov)
- Need a quick estimate of your copay (for current CCAP users)? Use the official CCAP Copay Calculator. (childcarenj.gov)
What changed in 2025 (read this first)
- CCAP is closed to new applications starting August 1, 2025 due to limited funding. Applications postmarked after July 31, 2025 are not reviewed. Current families remain served if still eligible; no adding new children to existing cases. Official notice: ChildCareNJ.gov. (childcarenj.gov)
- Income rules at redetermination: if your income is at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you remain eligible; if above 250% FPL but below 85% of State Median Income (SMI), you can get one final year of assistance (“graduated phase‑out”). If your income exceeds 85% SMI, you’re no longer eligible. See the state’s 2025–2026 income chart below. (childcarenj.gov)
- Work/school/training hours: the “Important Information” policy page sets the current minimum at 20 hours/week for work (increasing to 25 hours/week on October 1, 2025). School and training hours have minimums too (see details below). If you see older pages listing 30 hours, follow the updated policy page. (childcarenj.gov)
- Copays resumed in 2024 and are based on a sliding scale (0%–5% of income). Families at or below 100% FPL and children in protective services have copays waived. A new FY2026 copay schedule took effect August 1, 2025 (examples below). (childcarenj.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (scan this when you’re short on time)
| What you need | Fastest first step | The bottom line |
|---|---|---|
| CCAP (state child care subsidy) | Check CCAP status; if already on CCAP, contact your CCR&R for redetermination timelines | New apps paused since Aug 1, 2025. Current families keep help if eligible; you can’t add a new child after July 31, 2025. See closure notice. (childcarenj.gov) |
| Free Preschool (3–4) | Call your school district enrollment office; ask for “state‑funded preschool” availability | NJ is expanding free, full‑day preschool and aims for universal access; many districts already have seats. Press release. (nj.gov) |
| Head Start/Early Head Start (birth–5) | Use the federal locator to apply | Free early learning and family supports; income‑based with automatic eligibility for TANF/SNAP/Medicaid, foster, or homeless. How to Apply. (eclkcprod.eclkc.info) |
| TANF (WorkFirst NJ) child care | Tell your caseworker you need child care to work or attend required activities | WFNJ provides child care while you meet program requirements; transitional care available after you leave TANF. WFNJ Child Care. (nj.gov) |
| Find licensed providers | Use NJ’s official search tool (includes Grow NJ Kids quality ratings) | Search for child care & inspection reports. (childcarenj.gov) |
| Report a problem with a center | Call DCF Office of Licensing complaint line or file online | Complaints: 1‑877‑667‑9845. Abuse hotline: 1‑877 NJ ABUSE (652‑2873). Reports & stats. (childcarenj.gov) |
Who qualifies for New Jersey’s CCAP (if you’re already on it)
Start here: confirm you still meet the baseline rules and income limits at redetermination.
- You must live in New Jersey, have assets under $1,000,000, and be working, in school, or in training (see hour rules directly below). Your child must be under 13 (or under 19 with a verified disability or under protective supervision), and a U.S. citizen or qualified non‑citizen living with you. See “Help Paying for Child Care” on the official site. (childcarenj.gov)
- Hours rules (as of Sept 2025): work minimum 20 hrs/week (scheduled to increase to 25 hrs/week on Oct 1, 2025); school is generally 12+ credits/term (9+ credits in summer), and job training minimum 20 hrs/week. Distance/online class limits apply. (childcarenj.gov)
- 12‑month eligibility: once approved or renewed, you’re approved for 12 months, even if hours or income fluctuate temporarily. You must report certain changes (like moving counties or income exceeding 85% SMI) within 10 days. (childcarenj.gov)
- If you’re homeless, CCR&Rs must prioritize you. You get up to 6 months to provide documents and can count housing or job search hours to meet activity requirements. Call your CCR&R or the helpline 1‑800‑332‑9227. (childcarenj.gov)
2025–2026 income limits at redetermination
New Jersey uses two key cutoffs: 250% of FPL (continue), and 85% SMI (absolute cap). If you exceed 250% FPL but are below 85% SMI, you can receive one final year (“graduated phase‑out”).
| Family size | 250% FPL (annual) | 85% SMI (annual) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $52,875 | $84,962 |
| 3 | $66,625 | $108,303 |
| 4 | $80,375 | $134,671 |
| 5 | $94,125 | $143,086 |
| 6 | $107,875 | $151,501 |
Source: NJ “Important Information” page (2025–2026 chart). (childcarenj.gov)
Your copay (what you pay each month if you’re on CCAP)
- Copays are waived if your income is at or below 100% FPL or if the child is in protective services. Otherwise, copays run 0%–5% of household income based on your bracket and number of CCAP children (copays are only for the first two children; part‑time copay is half of full‑time). (childcarenj.gov)
- New FY2026 copay schedule (effective Aug 1, 2025) includes example weekly/monthly amounts at incomes from 22,000–22,000–148,000; see the official PDF and examples below. Your exact copay appears on your PAPA (the agreement you sign). (childcarenj.gov)
- You may still owe an “overage” if your provider’s tuition is higher than the state rate. That overage is separate from your copay. (childcarenj.gov)
Copay percentages at a glance (from NJ policy):
- At or below 100% FPL: copay waived.
- 101%–200% FPL: roughly 1%–3% of income depending on full/part‑time and whether one or two children.
- 201% FPL or higher: roughly 1.5%–5% of income (max 5% for two or more children in full‑time care). (childcarenj.gov)
What CCAP actually pays your provider (state payment rates)
The state pays your approved provider directly up to a set maximum, and you pay your copay plus any “overage” if the provider charges more than the state rate. Higher‑quality programs (Grow NJ Kids 3–5 stars) receive higher rates. Below are examples of monthly full‑time rates effective March 1, 2025. (childcarenj.gov)
| Age/Setting | Non‑rated licensed center | 3‑Star | 4‑Star | 5‑Star |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Infant (0–17 mo) | $1,587.69 | $1,694.41 | $1,741.84 | $1,803.10 |
| Toddler (18–29 mo) | $1,414.00 | $1,459.06 | $1,496.81 | $1,545.67 |
| Preschool (30 mo–5) | $1,262.50 | $1,321.84 | $1,354.02 | $1,395.74 |
| School‑age (5–13), FT | $1,190.56 | $1,678.73 | $1,719.60 | $1,772.59 |
- Registered family child care and approved home (FFN/in‑home) have separate rate schedules (also increased at higher Grow NJ Kids ratings). (childcarenj.gov)
- Children with special needs have higher rates in each category. (childcarenj.gov)
Reality check: many centers charge more than these caps—especially for infants—so ask about sibling discounts and whether the provider can waive any overage. It’s allowed but up to the provider. (childcarenj.gov)
How to keep your CCAP benefits moving (for current cases)
- Redetermination every 12 months: submit the redetermination packet within 30 calendar days of your notice. If approved, you’ll get another year. (childcarenj.gov)
- Sign and return agreements fast: when your CCR&R sends the Parent/Applicant & Provider Agreement (PAPA), sign and return within 10 days (ask for an extension if needed). Missing this can stop payments. (childcarenj.gov)
- Starting services: after approval, you have 60 days to begin care. Payments go directly to your provider after the agreements are on file. (childcarenj.gov)
- Report changes within 10 days: moving counties, switching providers, income over 85% SMI, or the child no longer living with you. Use your CCR&R’s change form. (childcarenj.gov)
Typical timelines
| Step | What to expect |
|---|---|
| CCR&R review of a submitted application | Within 10 business days they review for completeness; decision usually within 30 days (for new apps when open; still applies to redeterminations). (childcarenj.gov) |
| After approval | You must sign the PAPA within 10 days; services should begin within 60 days. (childcarenj.gov) |
| Eligibility period | 12 months continuous eligibility. (childcarenj.gov) |
If CCAP is closed to you: real alternatives that work
Start with the options below. They are open even while CCAP is paused.
- Free public preschool (ages 3–4). New Jersey is expanding free, full‑day preschool, and more districts now offer it via school or community‑provider classrooms. Call your local school district’s enrollment office and ask about “state‑funded preschool.” Recent state actions are moving toward universal access and full‑day kindergarten by 2030. (nj.gov)
- Head Start/Early Head Start (birth–5). Free, comprehensive early learning for low‑income families, with automatic eligibility categories (TANF/SNAP/Medicaid, foster, homeless). Apply via the federal locator or call 1‑866‑763‑6481. (eclkcprod.eclkc.info)
- WorkFirst NJ (TANF) child care. If you’re on WFNJ and in approved work activities or job search, child care is provided so you can participate. Transitional child care may continue after leaving TANF. Talk to your County Board of Social Services. (nj.gov)
- Military families: MCCYN/MCCYN‑PLUS fee assistance can offset community child care costs when on‑base care isn’t available. Providers need licensing and Grow NJ Kids rating under MCCYN‑PLUS. Start at MilitaryChildCare.com. (childcarenj.gov)
- Preschool wrap care. If your child has a free district pre‑K seat, ask the district or CCR&R about before/after “wrap‑around” options. Some are subsidized through different funding streams administered by CCR&Rs. Your local CCR&R can tell you what’s available near you. (childcarenj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call your CCR&R and ask about any county‑level scholarship slots, sliding‑fee programs, or district “pre‑K wrap” funds still open. Then check Head Start waitlists and ask to be put on their priority list. Finally, use the state search tool to compare prices and look for 3–5‑star programs (higher quality sometimes unlocks better rates and fewer overage fees). (childcarenj.gov)
How much child care really costs in New Jersey (so you can plan)
- Federal county‑level data shows center‑based infant care in New Jersey had 2022 median prices roughly in the mid‑15krange(variesbycounty);wheninflation‑adjusted,estimatesfor2024werearound∗∗15k range (varies by county); when inflation‑adjusted, estimates for 2024 were around **16.5k–$18.8k** depending on county. Use the Women’s Bureau NDCP to view your county’s prices. (dol.gov, blog.dol.gov)
- Many NJ families offset costs through state tax credits (see below) or by using free public preschool at ages 3–4 (mixing district classrooms and community partners). (nj.gov)
Taxes and benefits that can put cash back in your pocket
- New Jersey Child and Dependent Care Credit (state CDCC). If you qualify for the federal CDCTC and your NJ taxable income is $150,000 or less, NJ’s refundable credit equals 10%–50% of your federal credit depending on income tier. You can claim both the federal and the NJ credit. Details and NJ‑1040 instructions: NJ Division of Taxation. (nj.gov)
- New Jersey Child Tax Credit. Refundable credit up to 1,000perchildage5oryounger∗∗ifyourNJtaxableincomeis∗∗1,000 per child age 5 or younger** if your NJ taxable income is **80,000 or less. See the official chart: NJ Child Tax Credit. (nj.gov)
- SNAP (food help) to free up cash for child care. Apply at NJSNAP. Free help with your application is available through official SNAP Navigators (county‑specific contacts listed here). Examples: Community FoodBank of NJ (1‑908‑838‑4831), Fulfill (Monmouth/Ocean, 1‑732‑643‑5888). Full navigator list here: SNAP Navigator Program. (nj.gov)
- NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid/CHIP). Kids can qualify for coverage regardless of immigration status under Cover All Kids; this can free up money otherwise spent on health costs. Apply or get help via 1‑800‑701‑0710 or NJFamilyCare.org. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
- WIC for pregnant/postpartum moms and kids under 5 (income up to 185% FPL; see the 2025–26 table). Apply via NJ WIC. (nj.gov)
Step‑by‑step: Finding care you can afford (right now)
- Check free options first.
- Call your school district about state‑funded preschool (3s/4s). If seats are open, enroll. Ask about before/after wrap care. (nj.gov)
- Submit a Head Start/Early Head Start application; ask to be added to the waitlist if full. 1‑866‑763‑6481. (eclkcprod.eclkc.info)
- If you’re on WFNJ/TANF, ask your caseworker today for a child care referral to your CCR&R. This is how care gets covered while you work or attend activities. (nj.gov)
- Compare providers and prices.
- Use the official state search to view licensed programs, inspection reports, and Grow NJ Kids ratings: Search for Child Care. (childcarenj.gov)
- Ask any provider if they accept CCAP (if you’re already on it) and whether they’ll waive any overage above the state rate.
- If you’re homeless or fleeing domestic violence, tell your CCR&R. You can get up to 6 months to supply paperwork and can use housing/job search hours to meet activity rules. (childcarenj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call your CCR&R back and ask, “What else can you enroll me in right now—district wrap care, scholarships, or WFNJ support?” Then check SNAP Navigators (they often know local child care funds through county partners). (childcarenj.gov, nj.gov)
Copay examples (so the math is real)
These examples (from NJ’s copay policy) show how the copay percentage works and how “overage” can appear when a provider charges above the state rate. Your exact numbers will be on your PAPA.
- Family of two, 31,000/year∗∗income(101–20031,000/year** income (101–200% FPL), one full‑time infant in a licensed center: copay ≈ **2%** of income, about **52/month. If the center’s price is higher than the state rate, you also pay that difference (overage). (childcarenj.gov)
- Family of four, 61,000/year∗∗,onefull‑time+onepart‑time:copay≈∗∗2.561,000/year**, one full‑time + one part‑time: copay ≈ **2.5%** of income, about **127/month. (childcarenj.gov)
- Family of five, 91,000/year∗∗(over20091,000/year** (over 200% FPL), three full‑time children: copay ≈ **5%** of income, about **379/month. (childcarenj.gov)
New Jersey copay schedule (FY2026) — what we can share
New Jersey published an example schedule (effective Aug 1, 2025) showing weekly/monthly copays across incomes. Your CCR&R calculates the exact amount, but the schedule helps you sanity‑check the math. View the PDF: FY2026 Copayment Schedule. (childcarenj.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not signing and returning the PAPA within 10 days. Payments can’t start (or can stop) without it. Ask your CCR&R for an extension if you’re stuck. (childcarenj.gov)
- Picking a provider that isn’t eligible (license expired, not registered, or doesn’t accept state payments). Always check eligibility in the state search and with your CCR&R before you switch. (childcarenj.gov)
- Missing redetermination deadlines (you usually have 30 days to submit). Late paperwork can interrupt coverage. (childcarenj.gov)
- Assuming the state covers the full tuition. You’ll owe your copay and any “overage” if the provider charges above the state’s rate. Ask in writing what you’ll owe each month. (childcarenj.gov)
- Not reporting income over the 85% SMI cap within 10 days. That’s required and can prevent overpayments. (childcarenj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your case closes, ask the CCR&R exactly which document or step is missing and how to fix it. If you disagree with a decision, ask about appeal rights listed on your notice.
Application checklist (for redeterminations, WFNJ referrals, and when CCAP reopens)
Bring copies (paper or clear photos) of:
- Photo ID, child’s birth certificate, and proof of NJ residency (lease, utility, or official mail).
- Proof of income (recent paystubs, W‑2, child support received). If you’re self‑employed, ask your CCR&R which documents they accept. (childcarenj.gov)
- Work/school/training hours: schedule, enrollment letter, or training verification (note the Oct 1, 2025 increase to 25 work hours/week). (childcarenj.gov)
- If homeless: tell your CCR&R—you’ll get up to 6 months to supply documents and can start care sooner. (childcarenj.gov)
For diverse communities (targeted tips and resources)
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your CCR&R for providers with inclusive practices and strong anti‑bullying policies. Grow NJ Kids ratings emphasize quality in staff training and environment. Use the state provider search, and feel free to ask programs about their family policies during a tour. (childcarenj.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with a child who has a disability: Children with special needs can be served up to age 19 in CCAP, with higher payment rates to your provider. Also ask your school district about IDEA services (IEP/IFSP) and inclusion supports in preschool. (childcarenj.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: If you (or your child’s other parent) are Active Duty/Guard/Reserve/DoD civilian and can’t access on‑base care, request MCCYN/MCCYN‑PLUS fee assistance to lower community child care costs. See MCCYN in NJ. (childcarenj.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Children can qualify for NJ FamilyCare regardless of immigration status under Cover All Kids (health coverage frees cash for child care). For CCAP, children must be U.S. citizens or qualified non‑citizens; your CCR&R can explain acceptable documents. Cover All Kids. (nj.gov)
- Tribal families: If your family has American Indian/Alaska Native heritage, check for AI/AN Head Start options using the federal locator filters. Some tribal grantees operate in neighboring states but may serve eligible NJ families. Head Start Locator. (eclkcprod.eclkc.info)
- Rural single moms (e.g., parts of Sussex, Warren, Salem, Cumberland): Fewer providers may mean waitlists or higher prices. Ask CCR&R about family child care homes and school district pre‑K partnerships near you. Use the state search filters for your county and “Family Child Care” type. (childcarenj.gov)
- Single fathers and kin caregivers: The same CCAP, Head Start, and district pre‑K rules apply regardless of gender. If you have a DCF kinship case, contact your CCR&R for child care options specific to kinship care. Use the Copay Calculator to preview costs. (childcarenj.gov)
- Language access: Most state pages have Spanish options; CCR&Rs provide help in many languages. If you need an interpreter, tell them when you call. Find Your CCR&R. (childcarenj.gov)
Regional resources and who to call
- Find your county CCR&R with phone numbers (all counties listed): ChildCareNJ – CCR&R. If in doubt, call the statewide Child Care Helpline at 1‑800‑332‑9227. (childcarenj.gov)
- Report a safety concern about a licensed center: 1‑877‑667‑9845 or file online (DCF Office of Licensing). Abuse/neglect hotline: 1‑877 NJ ABUSE (652‑2873). Reports & Statistics. (childcarenj.gov)
- SNAP application help to free up money for child care: find Navigator contacts (by county) on the official page—examples include Community FoodBank of NJ (1‑908‑838‑4831) and Fulfill (1‑732‑643‑5888). SNAP Navigator Program. (nj.gov)
- NJ FamilyCare (kids’ health coverage): 1‑800‑701‑0710; Cover All Kids / NJFamilyCare. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
The real costs vs. state rates: set expectations
- Many NJ center‑based infant programs charge more than state rates—especially in high‑cost counties—leading to “overage” bills. State data (NDCP) show 2022 medians that, when inflation‑adjusted, land around 16.5k–16.5k–18.8k per year in 2024 dollars depending on county. This is why free district preschool (3–4) or Head Start can be a game‑changer. (dol.gov, blog.dol.gov)
- If you choose a Grow NJ Kids 3–5‑star program, your provider gets a higher state payment rate, which can reduce or eliminate overage. Use the state search and filter by Grow NJ Kids rating. (childcarenj.gov)
Tables you can use today
A) 2025–2026 income rules at redetermination
| If your income at redetermination is… | What happens |
|---|---|
| At or below 250% FPL | You stay eligible if you meet other rules |
| Between 250% FPL and 85% SMI | You get one year of “graduated phase‑out,” then close |
| Above 85% SMI | You’re no longer eligible; report within 10 days |
Source: NJ “Important Information” page. (childcarenj.gov)
B) Copay policy snapshot
| Income band | One child (FT) | Two+ children (FT) | Part‑time |
|---|---|---|---|
| ≤100% FPL | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| 101–200% FPL | ~2% | ~3% | ~1%–1.5% |
| ≥201% FPL | ~3% | ~5% | ~1.5%–2.5% |
See FY2026 Copayment Schedule for weekly/monthly examples; your PAPA shows your exact amount. (childcarenj.gov)
C) Sample monthly state payment rates (licensed centers; Mar 1, 2025)
| Age | Non‑rated | 3‑Star | 5‑Star |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant (FT) | $1,587.69 | $1,694.41 | $1,803.10 |
| Toddler (FT) | $1,414.00 | $1,459.06 | $1,545.67 |
| Preschool (FT) | $1,262.50 | $1,321.84 | $1,395.74 |
Full rate chart (including family child care and FFN/in‑home) here: Maximum Payment Rates. (childcarenj.gov)
D) Processing timeline cheat sheet
| Step | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Review for completeness | 10 business days |
| Eligibility decision | Generally within 30 days |
| Sign PAPA | Within 10 days |
| Start services | Within 60 days after approval |
| Coverage length | 12 months |
Official references: “Help Paying for Child Care” and “Important Information.” (childcarenj.gov)
E) Where to get help fast
| Need | Who to contact |
|---|---|
| County CCR&R (all counties) | Find Your CCR&R or call 1‑800‑332‑9227 |
| Head Start/Early Head Start | 1‑866‑763‑6481 + How to Apply |
| District preschool (3–4) | Call your school district; see NJ expansion news |
| Complaint about a center | 1‑877‑667‑9845 (DCF Office of Licensing) |
| Abuse/neglect | 1‑877 NJ ABUSE (652‑2873) |
| NJ FamilyCare (kids’ health) | 1‑800‑701‑0710 |
| SNAP Navigator (apply help) | SNAP Navigator Program |
(childcarenj.gov, eclkcprod.eclkc.info, nj.gov, nj.gov)
Real‑world examples
- You’re working 24 hours/week and take 6 credits at night; your family of 3 has $4,000/month income. Today you meet the 20‑hour work minimum; on Oct 1, 2025, you’ll need 25 hours/week to keep meeting work rules unless your school credits count toward a full‑time equivalent. Ask your CCR&R to look at your combined schedule. (childcarenj.gov)
- You’re a WFNJ mom starting a job next week. Tell your caseworker you need child care; they’ll refer you to the CCR&R so care is in place for your start date. WFNJ won’t require participation until child care is accessible. (nj.gov)
- Your 4‑year‑old gets a free district preschool seat, but you need care 7:30–6:00. Ask the district and CCR&R about “wrap” hours. Some districts partner with centers to cover before/after at low or no cost. (childcarenj.gov)
FAQs (New Jersey‑specific)
- Is CCAP accepting new applications right now?
No. New applications (and adding new children to existing cases) stopped Aug 1, 2025. Current kids stay covered if the family remains eligible. Watch the state page for updates: CCAP Application Closed. (childcarenj.gov) - What income keeps me eligible at redetermination?
At or below 250% FPL you remain eligible (if you meet other rules). Above that and below 85% SMI, you get one more year (graduated phase‑out). Above 85% SMI you’re no longer eligible. See the 2025–26 chart. (childcarenj.gov) - How many hours do I need to work or study?
Work: 20 hrs/week now, increasing to 25 hrs/week on Oct 1, 2025. School generally 12+ credits/term (9+ in summer). Job training 20 hrs/week. Some online hours have limits. (childcarenj.gov) - My income went up mid‑year. Do I lose child care immediately?
No, you have 12‑month continuous eligibility. But if income exceeds 85% SMI, you must report within 10 days and you become ineligible. At redetermination, rules above apply. (childcarenj.gov) - How is my copay calculated?
Based on income band (0%–5%), family size, and number of CCAP kids (copays only on the first two). Families at or below 100% FPL and CPS cases pay $0. Use the copay calculator and see the FY2026 schedule. (childcarenj.gov) - Why do I still owe money after paying my copay?
If your provider charges more than the state rate, you owe the difference (“overage”). Consider a Grow NJ Kids 3–5‑star provider (often higher state rate). (childcarenj.gov) - I’m homeless. Can I get help without all documents today?
Yes. CCR&Rs must prioritize you and give up to 6 months to submit documents while care starts. Housing/job search hours can count. Call your CCR&R or 1‑800‑332‑9227. (childcarenj.gov) - Where can I see inspection reports and find quality programs?
Use the official Search for Child Care tool and filter by Grow NJ Kids rating. (childcarenj.gov) - I’m on WorkFirst NJ (TANF). Do I pay a copay?
WFNJ child care is arranged to allow you to work/participate; ask your caseworker about any copay and transitional care when leaving TANF. (nj.gov) - Who do I call to report a problem at my child’s center?
DCF Office of Licensing complaint line: 1‑877‑667‑9845. Abuse/neglect hotline: 1‑877 NJ ABUSE (652‑2873). (childcarenj.gov)
What to do if you hit a wall (Plan B list)
- District preschool + wrap: If CCAP is closed, push hard on free preschool and district/community wrap options.
- Head Start: Apply and ask to be wait‑listed; stay in touch weekly.
- WFNJ: If you’re eligible, this is the fastest route to covered care while you work or train.
- Lower your tuition: Use the provider search to compare Grow NJ Kids 3–5‑star programs near you (often higher state rate = smaller overage). Ask about sibling discounts and sliding scales. (childcarenj.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from New Jersey Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
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, funding status, amounts, rates, and timelines can change. Always confirm with your county CCR&R, your school district, or the official program websites before you decide. The links and phone numbers in this guide point to official New Jersey and federal sources wherever possible.
Sources (selected, dated)
- CCAP application pause and parent info: ChildCareNJ – CCAP Closed; Help Paying for Child Care, updated 8/1/2025. (childcarenj.gov)
- 2025–2026 income thresholds (250% FPL and 85% SMI), copay policy, hours, 12‑month eligibility: ChildCareNJ – Important Information, updated 2/24/2025. (childcarenj.gov)
- FY2026 Copayment Schedule (effective Aug 1, 2025): Copayment Schedule PDF. (childcarenj.gov)
- State maximum payment rates (effective Mar 1, 2025): Maximum Child Care Payment Rates PDF. (childcarenj.gov)
- CCR&R finder & helpline: Find Your CCR&R; statewide Child Care Helpline 1‑800‑332‑9227. (childcarenj.gov)
- Preschool expansion and universal preschool pathway: NJ DCF Press Release, July 9, 2025. (nj.gov)
- Head Start application and locator (federal): ECLKC – How to Apply. (eclkcprod.eclkc.info)
- WFNJ child care support: NJ DHS – WorkFirst NJ: Support While You Are On WFNJ. (nj.gov)
- NJ FamilyCare Cover All Kids: Cover All Kids & NJ FamilyCare member line 1‑800‑701‑0710. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
- WIC income limits (2025–26): NJ WIC Income Eligibility (effective June 1, 2025–June 30, 2026). (nj.gov)
- SNAP Navigator contacts: NJSNAP – Get Help Applying. (nj.gov)
- Complaint and abuse hotlines: Reports & Statistics page (DCF OOL). (childcarenj.gov)
- Child care costs in NJ (NDCP, county‑level): U.S. DOL Women’s Bureau – NDCP and data update (Nov 2024). (dol.gov, blog.dol.gov)
- NJ state tax credits: Child and Dependent Care Credit; Child Tax Credit. (nj.gov)
If any link is broken or a number looks wrong, please email us. We’ll verify with the agency and update within 48–72 hours per our editorial standards.
🏛️More New Jersey Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Jersey
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
