North Dakota Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, no‑fluff guide for single mothers in North Dakota who need help paying for child care. You’ll find exact 2025 income limits, benefit amounts, how to apply, what documents to bring, local phone numbers, and real examples. We also include the hard parts—waitlists, copays, and what to do when Plan A fails.

---

Quick Help Box

• Apply for Child Care Assistance (CCAP) online now using North Dakota’s Self‑Service Portal. If online is tough, call the Customer Support Center at 1‑866‑614‑6005 (711 TTY) to get help or request a paper application. Apply for CCAP – ND HHS Self‑Service Portal. (hhs.nd.gov)
• 2025 CCAP income limits (monthly, before taxes) for household sizes 2–8 are listed below in the CCAP section. These limits are effective Oct 1, 2024 – Sep 30, 2025. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Find licensed child care and check inspection reports using the state’s search tool, or call Child Care Aware® of North Dakota at 1‑800‑997‑8515 (Option 1) for a free referral. Early Childhood Information for Families (state search) and Child Care Aware® ND referrals. (hhs.nd.gov, ndchildcare.org)
• If you work for a licensed child care provider, ask about the Child Care Workforce Benefit—it waives your CCAP copay and can cover up to the full‑time state max rate. Email: applyforhelp@nd.gov. (hhs.nd.gov)
• If your employer offers a child care stipend, see if they’ve joined the Working Parents Child Care Relief (WPCCR) pilot. State matches are $150or$300 per month for eligible families up to 150% of State Median Income (SMI). Parent help line: 701‑328‑2115 (press 2). WPCCR for Parents. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Pregnant or parenting under age 21? Crossroads can help with child care and transportation so you can stay in school. Copays are waived under CCAP for Crossroads. Crossroads Program. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (2025)

• CCAP monthly income limit (3‑person household): $6,462. Effective 10/1/2024–9/30/2025. (hhs.nd.gov)
• CCAP max monthly payment caps (full‑time center): Infant $1,278\ast \ast ,Toddler\ast \ast$1,243, Preschool $1,040\ast \ast ,School‑age\ast \ast$855. You still pay a sliding‑fee copay and any amount your provider charges over these caps. (hhs.nd.gov)
• WPCCR monthly state match: $150\ast \ast or\ast \ast$300, if your employer participates and your household income is ≤ 150% SMI. Not stackable with CCAP for the same child. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Head Start/Early Head Start: Free for eligible families. Uses the 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines (100% FPG reference below); enrollment is handled by local programs. Use the Head Start locator to apply. (aspe.hhs.gov, eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov)

---

The North Dakota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

Do this first: Check your eligibility and apply

• Apply online in minutes through the Self‑Service Portal, or call the Customer Support Center: 1‑866‑614‑6005 (711 TTY) for help, to report changes, or to request a paper form. Mailing address: Customer Support Center, P.O. Box 5562, Bismarck, ND 58506. CCAP: Apply & Program Page. (hhs.nd.gov)
• If you prefer in‑person help, go to your local Human Service Zone office (directory linked below). (hhs.nd.gov)

Who qualifies (core rules)

• You must be working, self‑employed, or in approved education/training. Families experiencing homelessness can have temporary approval while seeking work, school, or housing. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Children are covered through the period that includes their 13th birthday (up to 19 with special needs). (hhs.nd.gov)
• Asset limit: $1,000,000. Monthly household income must be under the CCAP income limits. (hhs.nd.gov)

2025 CCAP income limits (monthly, before taxes)

Effective October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025. (hhs.nd.gov)

What CCAP pays vs what you pay

• North Dakota sets maximum monthly payment rates. CCAP pays the lower of: the state cap for your child’s age/provider type OR your provider’s actual charge, minus your required copay. You pay the copay plus any amount above the state cap. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Copays use a sliding fee scale. Use the state’s Copay Worksheet to get your number: Worksheet for Calculating Copay (linked from CCAP page). The full sliding fee schedule is published by HHS. (hhs.nd.gov)

CCAP maximum state payment caps (Full‑time = 25+ hours/week)

Effective July 1, 2024. Registration fees up to $150/year are allowable for licensed centers and family/group providers. (hhs.nd.gov)

CCAP maximum state payment caps (Part‑time < 25 hours/week)

Effective July 1, 2024. (hhs.nd.gov)

Real‑world examples

• You’re a 3‑person household earning $4,000/month\ast \ast .Your2‑year‑oldisfull‑timeatalicensedcentercharging\ast \ast$1,300/month. The state cap for toddlers in a center is $1,243\ast \ast .CCAPcanpayupto\ast \ast$1,243 minus your copay, and you owe your copay plus the $57 difference between the cap and your provider’s price. Use the state copay tool linked above to get your exact copay. (hhs.nd.gov)
• You work for a licensed child care provider 25+ hours/week. If you qualify for CCAP, your copay is waived and the program can pay up to the full‑time state max rate for your child’s age—so for a 10‑month‑old in a licensed center, up to $1,278/month. (hhs.nd.gov)

How to apply (fastest path first)

• Apply online: CCAP – Apply Online. You’ll create a North Dakota login and submit your application and documents in the portal. Help line: 1‑866‑614‑6005. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Print and mail: Use form SFN 405 and mail to the Customer Support Center (address above), or drop it off at your Human Service Zone office. Print Application (SFN 405) and Human Service Zones directory. (hhs.nd.gov)

Documents to have ready

• Photo ID.
• Birth certificates for each child.
• Proof of income for the last month and current month (pay stubs, self‑employment records, benefit letters).
• Court‑ordered child support or spousal support verification (if it applies).
• Social Security Numbers (for caretaker and each child)—helpful for identification but not required to participate. (hhs.nd.gov)

Timelines and payments

• HHS doesn’t publish a fixed approval timeline; timing depends on how quickly all documents are turned in and provider details are confirmed. Payments are sent directly to your provider.
• Once enrolled, providers bill through the Self‑Service Portal. Payment certifications process nightly, and payments are received within five working days after submission. (hhs.nd.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Applying without choosing an eligible provider (licensed, self‑declared/tribal registered, or approved relative). If the provider isn’t eligible, CCAP can’t pay. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Ignoring mail from HHS. As of May 1, 2025, cases are not closed just because contact is lost, but payments can be suspended if mail is returned and HHS can’t reach you. Keep your address and email current. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Forgetting to report changes (work hours, income, provider). Report changes promptly to avoid overpayments. Phone: 1‑866‑614‑6005. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Ask your employer to join WPCCR (state will match employer child care benefits at $150or$300/month if your household is ≤ 150% SMI). (hhs.nd.gov)
• Apply for Head Start/Early Head Start (free, income‑based). Use the official locator to apply across ND. (eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov)
• Consider approved relative or self‑declared care (lower state caps but easier access in rural areas). See rate tables above. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

Working Parents Child Care Relief (WPCCR) – Employer Match Pilot

Do this first: Ask HR if your employer participates and for your WPCCR Employer Code

• If your employer opts in, the state will match your employer’s paid child care benefit at either $150\ast \ast or\ast \ast$300 per month per eligible employee. The employer must contribute at least the same amount as the chosen match level. Not stackable with CCAP for the same child. Parent help: 701‑328‑2115 (press 2); NDwpccr.info@nd.gov. WPCCR for Parents. (hhs.nd.gov)

Who can qualify

• Work in North Dakota; have a child birth to 60 months enrolled with a North Dakota licensed child care program; employer participates; and household income ≤ 150% SMI (monthly limits below). (hhs.nd.gov)

WPCCR Income Limits (monthly, before taxes)

Updated October 2024. (hhs.nd.gov)

Match levels

Employers must contribute at least the chosen level. Payment is sent direct to the parent each month after the employer uploads verification. (hhs.nd.gov)

How to apply (parents)

• Get the WPCCR Employer Code from your HR.
• Apply online and upload documents (ID, last 4 weeks of gross income, provider license number). WPCCR – Apply. Questions: 701‑328‑2115 (press 2). (hhs.nd.gov)

Can you get WPCCR and CCAP together?

• No—if your child is covered by CCAP that month, you can’t receive the WPCCR state match for that child. You can choose which program works better. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If your employer isn’t in the pilot, ask them to opt‑in (it’s open to public and private ND employers). Share the state employer page and toolkit with HR. WPCCR for Employers. (hhs.nd.gov)
• If your income or child’s age misses WPCCR, apply for CCAP or Head Start/Early Head Start. (hhs.nd.gov, eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov)

---

Teen Parents: Crossroads Program (under age 21)

Do this first: If you’re pregnant or under 21 and in school, apply to Crossroads plus CCAP

• Crossroads helps with transportation, waives the CCAP copay, and offers incentive payments for education milestones. Complete both the Crossroads application and Application for Assistance (SFN 405). Crossroads – Program Page and Publications (Crossroads brochure). (hhs.nd.gov)
• Eligibility highlights: pregnant or parenting, under 21 (with an exception if you started a bachelor’s while in Crossroads), North Dakota resident, primary caregiver, and enrolled in education. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Exact incentive dollar amounts can change year‑to‑year; check the current Crossroads brochure or call 1‑866‑614‑6005 for the latest amounts. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If you’re not eligible or you’ve aged out, apply for CCAP on your own and ask your school counselor about on‑site child care or scholarships. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

Head Start & Early Head Start (free early childhood options)

Do this first: Use the official Head Start locator to apply near you

• Head Start (ages 3–5) and Early Head Start (pregnancy to age 3) are free for eligible families. Use the Head Start Locator to find programs and enroll. Head Start Locator (ECLKC). (eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov)
• Programs look at HHS Poverty Guidelines (2025) to determine income eligibility. 2025 FPG (48 states & DC): 2‑person $21,150\ast \ast ,3‑person\ast \ast$26,650, 4‑person $32,150. Your local program can explain openings and waitlists. (aspe.hhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Ask about local school‑based pre‑K or North Dakota’s Best in Class classrooms (quality pre‑K in the year before kindergarten; some programs use sliding fees or offer free seats). (hhs.nd.gov)

---

Finding and Choosing Child Care (Licensing, Quality, and Safety)

Do this first: Search licensed programs and read inspection reports

• Start with the state’s Early Childhood Information for Families page to search for licensed providers and check licensing status, inspection reports, and Bright & Early ND quality ratings. For one‑on‑one help, call Child Care Aware® ND at 1‑800‑997‑8515 (Option 1). (hhs.nd.gov, ndchildcare.org)
• Learn the difference between licensed, self‑declared/tribal registered, and approved relative care. All must meet state standards to receive CCAP/CCDF funding. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

How Much Will Child Care Cost You With CCAP? (Putting it together)

• Pick your provider type and your child’s age. Find the state cap in the tables above. If your provider charges more than the cap, you pay the difference.
• Calculate your copay using HHS’s Copay Worksheet (linked on the CCAP page). CCAP pays up to the cap minus your copay; you pay your copay plus any difference. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Providers bill through the portal each month; after billing, payments arrive within five working days. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

Local Contacts You May Need

• HHS Customer Support Center (apply, questions, documents): 1‑866‑614‑6005; Fax 701‑328‑1006; Email applyforhelp@nd.gov; Mail: P.O. Box 5562, Bismarck, ND 58506. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Child Care Aware® of North Dakota (referrals and parent help): 1‑800‑997‑8515 (Option 1); referral@ndchildcare.org. Contact page. (ndchildcare.org)
• Early Childhood/Child Care Licensing (questions about licensing/quality): 701‑328‑2115; dhsec@nd.gov. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Find your local Human Service Zone office: use the state directory to get phone/address for your county/region. Human Service Zones – Directory. (hhs.nd.gov)

Quick regional numbers (examples)

---

Tables You Can Use Right Now

Table A — CCAP Monthly Income Limits (Effective 10/1/2024–9/30/2025)

Source: ND HHS Child Care Assistance Program. (hhs.nd.gov)

Table B — CCAP Max State Payment Caps (Full‑Time, per month)

Source: ND HHS CCAP Provider Rates (effective 7/1/2024). (hhs.nd.gov)

Table C — CCAP Max State Payment Caps (Part‑Time, per month)

Source: ND HHS CCAP Provider Rates (effective 7/1/2024). (hhs.nd.gov)

Table D — WPCCR Income Limits (Monthly) and Match Levels

Match: employer $150\ast \ast \to state\ast \ast$150; employer $300\ast \ast \to state\ast \ast$300. (hhs.nd.gov)

Table E — 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines (for Head Start context)

Source: U.S. HHS/ASPE Poverty Guidelines (2025). (aspe.hhs.gov)

---

Application Checklist (Print/Save This)

• Photo ID (driver’s license or state ID).
• Children’s birth certificates.
• SSNs for you and each child (optional but helps matching; not required for CCAP eligibility).
• Last month and current month’s income proof for all adults in your home (pay stubs, self‑employment statements, benefit letters).
• Court‑ordered child support or spousal support documents (if any).
• Your chosen provider’s name and type (licensed center, licensed family, self‑declared/tribal registered, or approved relative). (hhs.nd.gov)

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid (and how to fix them)

• Submitting an application without picking an eligible provider. Fix: use the state search tool or call 1‑800‑997‑8515 (Option 1) for a quick referral, then add your provider info to your case. (hhs.nd.gov, ndchildcare.org)
• Not using the Copay Worksheet. Your budget depends on your copay. Use the state tool before you pick a provider so you know your out‑of‑pocket costs. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Missing mail/email from HHS. Payments can be suspended if HHS can’t reach you. Fix: update your contact info and set your portal notifications to active. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Assuming CCAP pays the provider’s full price. It pays up to state caps; you owe the copay and any difference. Fix: ask your provider for their rates and compare to the caps in Tables B/C. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

Diverse Communities: What You Should Know

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Eligibility rules are the same. If a provider makes you feel unsafe or unwelcome, use the state search and quality ratings to find others and report concerns. Licensing/quality contacts: 701‑328‑2115; dhsec@nd.gov. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or caring for children with disabilities: Ask your provider about accommodation plans; you may qualify for additional supports through HHS (e.g., respite or in‑home supports) and should coordinate care with your Human Service Zone. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Veteran single mothers and Guard/Reserve families: You may have separate military fee assistance through your service branch; pair it with the state provider search and Bright & Early ND ratings to find quality programs. Check your branch’s official child care fee assistance program for current rules.
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: The ND Refugee Resettlement Program can help connect you with services and language resources; programs use professional interpreters when needed. Start at HHS and your local Human Service Zone for referrals. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Tribal citizens: You may be eligible for your Tribal Nation’s CCDF child care assistance. Use the Tribal Nation Human Services Directory or your tribal office to connect with the CCDF program. You can also use tribal‑registered providers under CCAP with the state caps shown above. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Rural single moms: Consider self‑declared or approved relative care if there’s no nearby center; state caps are lower, but it can be the most realistic option. Use CCAP while you wait for a Head Start seat or a center opening. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Single fathers: All programs are inclusive—same rules and phone numbers apply. Use this guide as is.
• Language access: ND HHS provides automatic translation on many pages and translation‑friendly publications. If you need language help, tell the Customer Support Center when you call 1‑866‑614‑6005. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

Resources by Region (find help fast)

• Find your Human Service Zone: use the state directory map to locate the exact office and phone for your county. Human Service Zones – Directory. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Check licensing status and quality: Choosing Care – Licensing, inspections, Bright & Early ND. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Parent referral help: Child Care Aware® ND, 1‑800‑997‑8515 (Option 1), referral@ndchildcare.org. (ndchildcare.org)

---

Reality Checks, Tips, and Timelines

• Approval isn’t instant. It depends on how fast documents are verified and your provider is set up. Turn everything in early and answer calls/emails quickly. Payments go straight to providers; once your provider submits their monthly billing, payments arrive within five working days. (hhs.nd.gov)
• If your mail bounces back, payments may be suspended until HHS can reach you (cases aren’t closed just for loss of contact, per 2025 update). Keep your address and email current. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Provider’s price vs. state caps: If you can, choose a provider whose tuition is at or under the cap for your child’s age and care level to minimize your out‑of‑pocket. See Tables B/C. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

Frequently Asked Questions (North Dakota‑specific)

• Can I use CCAP with an unlicensed babysitter?
  Only if they are approved as an approved relative or registered as a self‑declared or tribal‑registered provider. Otherwise, CCAP can’t pay. (hhs.nd.gov)
• What if my provider charges more than the state cap?
  CCAP still pays up to the cap minus your copay, but you pay the difference. Consider switching providers or asking about discounts. (hhs.nd.gov)
• How do I figure out my copay?
  Use HHS’s Copay Worksheet (linked from the CCAP page). It’s based on income, family size, child’s age, provider type, and hours. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Can I get both CCAP and WPCCR?
  Not for the same child, in the same month. You can choose which program works better for your budget. (hhs.nd.gov)
• I’m a child care employee—do I still have a copay?
  If you qualify for the Child Care Workforce Benefit, your copay is waived and CCAP can pay up to the full‑time state max rate. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Do payments come to me?
  CCAP usually pays the provider directly. WPCCR pays the state match directly to you after your employer uploads proof of their stipend each month. (hhs.nd.gov)
• What ages does CCAP cover?
  From birth through the period that includes your child’s 13th birthday (up to 19 with special needs). (hhs.nd.gov)
• Does CCAP cover registration fees?
  Yes, up to $150 per calendar year for licensed center and family/group providers. (hhs.nd.gov)
• I’m under 21 and in school. Should I apply for Crossroads or CCAP?
  Both. Crossroads waives your CCAP copay and may help with transportation and milestone incentives. Submit both applications. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Where do I get help picking a provider?
  Use the state’s search tool to see licensing, inspection reports, and Bright & Early ND ratings, or call Child Care Aware® ND at 1‑800‑997‑8515 (Option 1). (hhs.nd.gov)

---

North Dakota Programs That Complement Child Care

• Best in Class (Pre‑K year): State‑funded quality classrooms for 4‑year‑olds before kindergarten; programs receive grants ($15,000–$120,000 per classroom in 2025‑26) and may offer low‑ or no‑cost seats depending on the site’s sliding fee plan and matching funds. Ask local sites about family cost. Best in Class – Program Overview. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Bright & Early ND (Quality Ratings): Look for programs with higher Bright & Early ND steps for stronger quality, curriculum, and interactions. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

What to Do If You’re Stuck

• Call HHS Customer Support at 1‑866‑614‑6005 and ask for help troubleshooting your application or documents. (hhs.nd.gov)
• If you need child care urgently while waiting: ask your provider to hold the spot; consider an approved relative or self‑declared provider short‑term; apply to Head Start/Early Head Start; and ask your employer about WPCCR. (hhs.nd.gov, eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov)

---

Content Gaps We Solved (based on top search results)

Most pages in search results point you to “apply for CCAP” but don’t give the actual ND payment caps, 2025 CCAP income limits, WPCCR match levels and income limits, or local phone numbers you can call today. This guide includes those exact figures, links to the state’s copay calculator, and step‑by‑step actions, plus real examples, mistakes to avoid, and Plan B options with official sources.

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from North Dakota Health and Human Services, U.S. HHS/ASPE, and established nonprofits. It is produced under our Editorial Standards and accuracy processes, including source archiving and link checks. We are independent researchers—not government employees.

• Editorial Standards: ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy
• Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

---

Disclaimer

Policies, income limits, copays, caps, and program rules can change at any time. Always confirm details with North Dakota Health and Human Services or your local Human Service Zone office before you make financial decisions. This guide is not legal advice and does not guarantee your eligibility or outcome.

---

Key Sources (verified September 2025)

• ND Health & Human Services — Child Care Assistance Program (eligibility, income limits, provider caps, contacts, news update). (hhs.nd.gov)
• ND HHS — Publications & Sliding Fee schedule link (copay worksheet and DN241 sliding fee reference). (hhs.nd.gov)
• ND HHS — Provider Guidebook excerpts (payment timing within five working days). (hhs.nd.gov)
• ND HHS — Working Parents Child Care Relief (parents and employers) including 150% SMI income limits and $150/$300 match levels; “no double‑dip” with CCAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
• U.S. HHS/ASPE — 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines (Head Start context). (aspe.hhs.gov)
• ECLKC (Head Start) — Locator tool for applying to local programs. (eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov)
• ND HHS — Early Childhood Information for Families (state search and quality/inspection info) and Choosing Care (licensing/inspection guidance). (hhs.nd.gov)
• Child Care Aware® of North Dakota — Referral help and contact. (ndchildcare.org)
• ND HHS — Human Service Zones directory (find local offices and contacts). (hhs.nd.gov)
• ND HHS — Best in Class news release (2025‑26 awards). (hhs.nd.gov)
• ND HHS — Crossroads teen parent program. (hhs.nd.gov)

If you spot outdated details or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll verify and update promptly.

---

🏛️More North Dakota Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in North Dakota

You may also need: Education Grants WIC Benefits

• 📋 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