Do You Qualify? Three Basic Requirements
You must meet all three requirements. If you do, use our calculator to see your estimated co-pay.
Use the calculator to check your specific income and family size →
Open Eligibility CalculatorCAPS Explained in Plain English
CAPS (Childcare and Parent Services) is Georgia's program that pays part — or sometimes all — of your childcare bill so you can work or go to school. You find a licensed daycare that accepts CAPS, the state pays the daycare directly, and you pay only your portion called a "co-pay."
CAPS is administered by Georgia's Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL), also known as Bright from the Start. It's a federal program funded through the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) and operated at the state level, which is why it's specifically for Georgia families.
How the money actually works
When you're approved for CAPS, you receive what's called a Certificate of Eligibility (sometimes called a voucher). You take that certificate to any licensed daycare that is enrolled as a CAPS provider. The state pays the daycare their set reimbursement rate. You pay the daycare your co-pay — a smaller amount based on your income — and nothing more. The daycare cannot charge you above your co-pay for the basic care covered by CAPS.
What CAPS covers
CAPS covers full-time and part-time care at licensed daycares, family childcare homes, and after-school programs. It can also cover care from a relative in some circumstances (the relative must be licensed or registered). Care must take place while you are at work, school, or in approved training.
What CAPS does NOT cover
CAPS does not cover tutoring, enrichment classes, or care when you are not working or in school. It does not cover unlicensed providers (with limited relative care exceptions). It does not pay for food, supplies, or registration fees — those are separate from the care cost and some providers charge them to all families.
How CAPS Works from Application to First Day
Most families go from application to their child's first day at a CAPS daycare in about 6–8 weeks.
Check your eligibility
Use our CAPS calculator to confirm your income and family size qualify. Have a rough estimate of your gross (before-tax) monthly household income ready.
Gather your documents
You'll need: proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, or employer letter), proof of work or school enrollment, your child's birth certificate, a Georgia ID or driver's license, and proof of Georgia residency (utility bill or lease). See the full document list.
Apply at Georgia Gateway
Apply online at gateway.ga.gov or call 1-877-423-4746. You can also apply in person at your county DFCS office. The online application takes about 30–45 minutes.
Wait for your decision (30–45 days)
After submitting, DECAL reviews your application. You may receive a request for additional documents. Check your Georgia Gateway account and the email/mail address you provided. Decisions typically arrive in 30–45 days.
Receive your Certificate of Eligibility
If approved, you receive a Certificate showing your approved hours, your co-pay amount, and your effective dates. This certificate is what you bring to your chosen daycare provider.
Choose a CAPS-approved provider
Use our daycare search to find licensed providers near you that accept CAPS. Call ahead — CAPS slots fill up, especially for infants. Bring your Certificate of Eligibility on your first visit.
Renew every 6–12 months
CAPS eligibility must be renewed. You'll receive a redetermination notice before your benefits expire. Renew early — if your benefits lapse, you may have a gap in coverage while waiting for reapproval.
| Program | Who It's For | Free Choice of Provider | Covers Full-Time Care | Income Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CAPS | Working families, students, job trainees | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | 85% State Median Income |
| Georgia Pre-K | All 4-year-olds (no income limit) | Partial | ✗ Part-day only (6.5 hrs) | None — universal |
| Head Start | Low-income families, 3–5 year olds | ✗ Program sites only | Some full-day available | 100% Federal Poverty Level |
| TANF Childcare | Families receiving TANF cash assistance | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | TANF income limits apply |
CAPS Is Available in All 159 Georgia Counties
Every county in Georgia has CAPS-approved providers. Here are the metro Atlanta counties with the most options — click to search daycares in that county.
⚠️ Waiting Lists Are Real
Georgia CAPS has waiting lists in some counties when funding is limited. Apply as early as possible — even before your current childcare situation changes. Being on the list is free and doesn't commit you to anything.
✓ CAPS Slots Fill Fast at Daycares
Each CAPS-approved daycare has a limited number of CAPS slots. When you're approved, call providers immediately — especially for infant care (ages 0–12 months), which has the highest demand.
ℹ️ QR Rating Matters for CAPS
Daycares with higher Quality Rated (QR) stars receive higher CAPS reimbursement from the state. This extra funding helps them maintain quality. Many QR ★★★ providers use it to reduce or eliminate co-pays for CAPS families.
⚡ Renew Before It Expires
CAPS benefits expire every 6–12 months. If you miss your redetermination deadline, your benefits stop and your child may lose their daycare slot. Start your renewal as soon as you receive the notice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get Help with Your CAPS Application
If you're having trouble applying, received a denial, or need help finding a provider, these resources are free and available to Georgia families.