Is there a waitlist for child care vouchers in Indianapolis?
Yes. FSSA froze new CCDF enrollment in December 2024 when pandemic funds ran out, reopened it in spring 2026 with a one-time $200 million infusion, and still had about 29,800 children waiting statewide in late July 2026, according to WFYI.
New applicants are placed on the list. Priority goes first to On My Way Pre-K applicants, families under 100% of poverty and children of child care workers; everyone else is first come, first served.
How do Indianapolis families apply for CCDF?
Through Early Ed Connect, the state's online application, which handles several children at once and accepts phone photos of documents. Waitlisted families must reconfirm contact details, work status and income every 90 days to keep their place.
CCDF matters to private school families mainly for aftercare and younger siblings: the Choice voucher pays tuition but never child care.
| CCDF voucher | On My Way Pre-K | Choice Scholarship | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Child care so parents can work or study | One pre-K year at age four | K-12 tuition |
| Income test | Up to 135% of poverty | Up to 135% of poverty | None |
| Waitlist? | Yes, for new applicants | Capped at 2,500 seats | No; school must have room |