top of page
logo.png
ABOUT CAPS
APPLICATION PROCESS

For the most efficient processing, please submit a CAPS application at www.gateway.ga.gov. If you need assistance in submitting an online application, call 1-833-4GACAPS (1-833-442-2277). If you are not able to submit an online application, click on the link to the Contact Us page to submit a paper application.

​

Step 1: Log into your Georgia Gateway account if you have one OR create a new Georgia Gateway account. You will need your social security number or Client ID to activate or regain access to your account if you have not already done so.

​

  • Web address: www.gateway.ga.gov

    • See instructions here.

    • If you forgot your user name or password, use the links to request the information.

    • If you have trouble logging in, contact the Gateway helpdesk at (877) 423-4746.

    • Note: If you have an existing case, you can link your Gateway account to your benefits, follow the link, if applicable.

    • ​

Step 2: Complete an application for childcare in Georgia Gateway.

​

  • Click on the “Renew my benefits” button (if you already have an active childcare case in Gateway) and complete a renewal application for childcare in Georgia Gateway OR click the link to start an application and select childcare from the list of assistance programs.

  • Complete the Pre-Application Screener to determine if you meet submission requirements. (The Pre-Application Screener should not populate if you were able to select “Renew my benefits.”)

    • If you do not meet submission requirements, you will not have to complete the entire application.

    • If you do meet submission requirements, follow the prompts to complete the application.

  • Complete the application for childcare, if applicable.
     

Step 3: Submit verification documents in Georgia Gateway. See the Eligibility Requirements webpage for required verification documents.
 

Step 4: A CAPS staff member will contact you to review your application and determine eligibility. Please note that applications are processed in the order received. You can speed up the process by ensuring that you have submitted all required documentation in the Georgia Gateway portal. Responding promptly to any correspondence from CAPS staff will also help expedite the processing of your application.

The CAPS program supports early education goals by assisting low-income families with the cost of childcare while they work, go to school or training, or participate in other work-related activities.
 

The purpose of CAPS is threefold:

​

  1. Provide access to high quality and affordable early learning environments for families who are considered low income.

  2. Support DECAL's efforts in increasing positive school readiness outcomes.

  3. Assist families in achieving and maintaining self-sufficiency by providing financial supports for child care costs.
     

CAPS is administered by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning.

Effective December 18, 2017, ALL components of the CAPS program transferred from the Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) to the Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). This transfer from DFCS to DECAL did not affect the financial support provided by CAPS because the program's policies and reimbursement systems remain the same.
 

At DECAL, we have envisioned the CAPS program as a strong component of the early education system – so instead of receiving "certificates" for child care, families will receive CAPS "scholarships," and CAPS becomes an important pathway to ensure access to high quality child care for CAPS families.

Under DECAL, families will interact with two main units of the CAPS program. The Scholarship Administration unit, based in Atlanta, works with new applicants to determine eligibility for the program and help select high quality child care.
 

Consultants with the Family Support unit will be assigned to families who live in their region of the state. These Family Support Consultants will work with and advocate for families, will help families if their situation changes, will assist families with renewing their benefits, and will connect families with resources to help overcome obstacles to training or employment.

For more information, see CAPS Funding and Policies and Procedures.

bottom of page