Your CAPS Journey
What You Need Before You Apply
Having all your documents ready before you start the application saves time and prevents delays. Check off each item as you gather it.
Georgia ID or Driver's License
Must be current and show your Georgia address. If your address is different from your ID, bring a separate proof of address.
Social Security Number
Your SSN and the SSN of each child applying for CAPS. You do not need the physical card — just the number.
Proof of Georgia Residency
Utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement showing your current Georgia address. Must be dated within the last 60 days.
Recent pay stubs (last 4 weeks)
Two most recent pay stubs for every adult in the household with a job. If paid weekly, provide 4 pay stubs.
Self-employment income (if applicable)
Most recent federal tax return (Schedule C) or a written statement of monthly income and expenses signed by you. Bank statements showing deposits may also be accepted.
Other income sources
Include documentation for child support received, unemployment benefits, Social Security income, disability payments, or any other regular income source.
If working: Employer letter or pay stubs
A letter from your employer on company letterhead showing your hire date, hours per week, and hourly rate or salary. OR your most recent pay stubs showing employment dates.
If in school: Current enrollment verification
Letter from your school or college confirming you are currently enrolled, your student ID, or a current class schedule showing your name and dates.
If in job training: Program enrollment letter
Official letter from your job training program (Georgia WorkSource, vocational program, etc.) confirming current enrollment, hours, and expected end date.
Birth certificate for each child
Official birth certificate showing the child's name and date of birth. Hospital birth records are not accepted — you need the official state certificate.
Immunization records (Form 3231)
Georgia requires immunization records for daycare enrollment. Your child's provider will also request this. Get it from your child's pediatrician.
Disability documentation (if applicable)
If your child is 13–17 and has a disability, include a signed statement from a licensed physician, psychologist, or other qualified professional describing the disability.
Choose How to Apply
There are three ways to apply for CAPS. Online is the fastest and most recommended — you can upload documents, check status, and receive notifications all in one place.
Online — Georgia Gateway
gateway.ga.gov · Available 24/7 · Upload documents instantly · Track status online
Phone
1-877-423-4746 · Mon–Fri 8am–5pm · Staff walk you through the process
In Person
Your county DFCS office · Bring all original documents · May have wait times
Create a Georgia Gateway Account
Go to gateway.ga.gov and click "Apply for Benefits." Create an account using your email address and a password you'll remember — you'll use this account to check your application status and upload documents throughout the process.
Write down your username and password. You'll need to log back in to check your status, respond to document requests, and eventually complete your renewal every 6–12 months. Use an email you check regularly.
Complete the Application
The online application walks you through several sections. Take your time — you can save and return to the application if you need to gather more information. Here's what each section asks for:
Household Information
Names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers for everyone living in your home, including children who are NOT applying for CAPS.
Income Information
Income type and amounts for every adult in the household. Enter gross (before-tax) amounts. Include all sources — wages, child support, Social Security, unemployment, etc.
Work/School/Training Details
Your employer name, address, and phone number — or your school name and schedule. The caseworker may call to verify this information.
Childcare Needs
The ages of children needing care, approximate hours per week, and whether you need full-time or part-time care.
⚠️ Do not guess on income. Overstating or understating income — even accidentally — can cause your application to be denied or result in an overpayment notice later. Use your actual pay stubs to enter exact amounts.
Upload Your Documents
After completing the application form, you'll be prompted to upload supporting documents. Upload everything at once if possible — missing documents are the #1 cause of application delays.
Phone camera tip: Lay each document flat on a dark background and photograph it in bright light. Georgia Gateway accepts JPG, PNG, and PDF files. Make sure all text is clearly readable before uploading.
If you can't upload digitally, you can mail documents to your county DFCS office or drop them off in person. Always keep copies of everything you submit.
The 30–45 Day Review Period
Here's exactly what happens between submitting your application and receiving your decision.
Confirmation email arrives
Check your email for a confirmation from Georgia Gateway with your application number. Save this number — you'll need it if you call to check on your status.
A DECAL caseworker is assigned to your file
Your application is reviewed and assigned to a caseworker. They may call your employer or school to verify information. Make sure your phone number is correct on the application.
You may be asked for additional documents
Check your Georgia Gateway account and email regularly. If your caseworker needs more information, they'll send a request with a response deadline. Respond promptly — missing the deadline can close your application.
Approval or denial letter arrives
You'll receive a decision by mail and through your Georgia Gateway account. If approved, you'll see your co-pay amount, approved hours, and effective dates.
Certificate of Eligibility issued
Your Certificate is generated and can be printed from your Georgia Gateway account. Take this to your chosen CAPS-approved daycare to start enrollment.
Your Next Steps After Approval
Find a CAPS-approved daycare
Not every daycare accepts CAPS. Use our provider search to find licensed, CAPS-certified daycares near you with open slots.
Call providers immediately
CAPS slots fill fast — especially for infants. Call your top 3–5 choices the same day you're approved. Ask specifically: "Do you have CAPS openings for [child's age]?"
Bring your Certificate to enrollment
Print your Certificate of Eligibility from Georgia Gateway and bring it to your provider. The daycare will submit it to DECAL to start receiving payments on your behalf.
Set a renewal reminder
CAPS must be renewed every 6–12 months. Set a calendar reminder for 60 days before your expiration date — renewal requires updated documents and can take 2–4 weeks.
Don't Give Up — You Can Appeal
If your CAPS application is denied, you have 30 days from the date of the denial notice to request a fair hearing (appeal). Common reasons for denial include missing documents, income calculations, or a misunderstanding about your work situation — many of which can be corrected on appeal.
To appeal: call 1-877-423-4746 and request a fair hearing, or submit a written request to your county DFCS office. Atlanta Legal Aid (404-524-5811) provides free legal help with CAPS denials and appeals.
Read the Full Appeal Guide →