$140B
Government benefits go unclaimed every year in the U.S.
White House OMB, 2023
9M
Older adults are eligible for benefits but not enrolled
NCOA/Urban Institute, 2024
~100M
Americans receive some form of government assistance
U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services, 2023
Kentucky Government Benefits Programs
Explore the main benefit programs available and find the ones that apply to your situation.
Available programs in Kentucky
SSDI in Kentucky - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI in Kentucky - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI is a benefit you already paid for through Social Security taxes on every paycheck. If a medical condition now keeps you from working, you may be owed a monthly payment based on your work history, not the severity of your condition.
AVERAGE MONTHLY PAYMENT
$1,630
What the average disabled worker receives each month in 2026
SSA 2026 COLA Fact Sheet
HOW OFTEN CLAIMS ARE DENIED
2 in 3
First applications are usually denied, most are reversed on appeal, which is why getting it right matters
SSA
YOU CAN STILL WORK
$1,690/mo
The most you can earn from a job in 2026 and still qualify
SSA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Workers age 31 and older typically need to have worked at least 5 of the last 10 years and paid Social Security taxes
- People with a condition expected to last at least 12 months or be terminal
- The condition prevents substantial work, defined by the SSA's annual earnings limit (higher for people who are blind)
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. We handle the entire process for you, from the paperwork to every appeal. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Does SSDI approval lead to other benefits in Kentucky?
Yes. After 24 months on SSDI, you become eligible for Medicare regardless of age. Kentucky also expanded Medicaid, so many people with limited income qualify for coverage while they wait out that period.
How long does SSDI take in Kentucky?
Kentucky processes initial claims through its Disability Determination Service. An initial decision typically takes 3 to 6 months, with appeals taking a year or more if needed. The earlier you apply, the more back pay you may receive.
Can I work while applying?
Yes, as long as you stay under the SSA's monthly limit for substantial gainful activity. Going over that signals to the SSA that you're able to do substantial work.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SSI in Kentucky - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI in Kentucky - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI is monthly cash for people who are struggling to get by. You can qualify if you're disabled, blind, or 65 or older, and have very little income and few assets. Unlike SSDI, you don't need a work history, it's based on need. In Kentucky, getting SSI also opens the door to Medicaid.
MONTHLY MAXIMUM
$994
The federal SSI payment for one person in 2026. Kentucky does not add a general state supplement
SSA, 2026
SAVINGS YOU CAN KEEP
$2,000
The federal SSI resource limit. Your home and one car never count
SSA, 2026
WHO CAN QUALIFY
No work history
SSI is based on need, not your work record. People 65+, blind, or disabled can qualify
SSA
Who qualifies
- People who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older
- Those with very limited income
- Limited resources, with your home and one car not counting against the limit
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. SSI applications involve detailed financial records that trip people up, and one mistake can delay your case. We handle all of it for you. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Will I get Medicaid with SSI in Kentucky?
Yes. SSI approval automatically enrolls you in Kentucky Medicaid. No separate application needed.
Does Kentucky add to my SSI payment?
Generally no. Kentucky does not pay a general state supplement, so most recipients get only the federal amount. The state pays a supplement only for certain living arrangements, like personal care homes, family care homes, or caretaker situations for people who need that level of care.
Can I receive both SSI and SSDI?
Sometimes. If your SSDI payment is low enough, SSI can fill the gap up to the federal rate. This is called concurrent benefits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Veterans Benefits in Kentucky
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
Veterans Benefits in Kentucky
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
VA disability is tax-free monthly pay you earned through your service. If you have an injury or condition connected to your military service, you may be owed compensation every month. The VA assigns a rating from 0 to 100 percent that sets your payment, and many veterans are rated too low or denied at first.
MONTHLY PAY AT 100%
$3,938
What a veteran rated 100% with no dependents receives each month in 2026, tax-free
VA.gov, 2026
TAXES YOU OWE ON IT
$0
VA disability pay is never counted as taxable income by the IRS
IRS
ADDED BY THE PACT ACT
20+ conditions
New toxic-exposure conditions the VA now presumes are service connected
VA.gov
Who qualifies
- Veterans who served on active duty or qualifying training (Guard and Reserve can count)
- Those with a current condition connected to their service
- Those discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
How to apply
The fastest way to get what you're owed is through Turnout. Our VA advocates build your claim from the start, catch rating errors, and fight back if the VA gets it wrong. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
How does the VA disability rating work?
The VA rates you from 0 to 100 percent based on how much your condition affects you. That rating sets your monthly payment. If you have more than one condition, they are combined, not simply added.
Does Kentucky offer any property-tax help for disabled veterans?
Yes. Kentucky gives a homestead exemption of $49,100 off your home's assessed value for the 2025 to 2026 years if you are totally and permanently disabled, which includes veterans rated 100 percent. You apply through your county Property Valuation Administrator. This is separate from your federal VA compensation.
Can I get VA disability and Social Security at the same time?
Yes. They are separate programs with separate rules, so receiving VA disability does not reduce your SSDI.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Healthcare Advocacy in Kentucky
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare Advocacy in Kentucky
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare advocacy is one-on-one help getting the most out of your Medicare. Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 and older, and for some younger people on disability, and most plans cover more than people realize. A Turnout advocate works with you to understand your coverage, find the right specialists, manage your prescriptions, and cut your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there is no cost to you.
WHERE TURNOUT HELPS
All 50 states
Turnout's healthcare advocates work with people in every U.S. state
Turnout
WHAT IT COSTS YOU
$0
Your insurance pays for the advocacy, so there's nothing out of pocket for you
Turnout
ONE-ON-ONE TIME
Up to 6 hours a month
Free monthly sessions with your own dedicated advocate
Turnout
Who qualifies
- Anyone with Medicare, including Part B, or approaching eligibility at 65
- People who want help using their coverage, finding care, or cutting costs
- And more, including those reviewing or switching plans
How to apply
The fastest way to get the most from your Medicare is through Turnout. We pair you with a healthcare advocate who helps you understand your coverage, find specialists, manage prescriptions, and lower your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there's no cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
What does a healthcare advocate do for you in Kentucky?
A healthcare advocate helps you understand and use your coverage, from finding specialists to managing prescriptions to lowering what you pay. With Turnout, the advocacy is covered by Medicare at no cost to you.
What's the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?
Medicare is federal health insurance based mainly on age or disability, not income. Medicaid is based on income. Some people qualify for both, which covers nearly all of their health costs.
Is there free Medicare counseling in Kentucky?
Yes. The Kentucky State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), run by the Department for Aging and Independent Living, gives free one-on-one Medicare counseling. Call 1-877-293-7447. SHIP sells nothing and is unbiased.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Education Advocacy in Kentucky
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education Advocacy in Kentucky
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education advocacy is one-on-one help getting your child the school support they're entitled to. Under federal law, a child with a disability has the right to an Individualized Education Program, or IEP, a plan the school must follow and pay for. Evaluations get delayed and support gets watered down, and many families don't realize they can push back. A Turnout education advocate prepares with you, joins your IEP meetings, reviews the plan, and pushes for everything the law requires.
CONDITIONS THAT QUALIFY
13 categories
From autism to dyslexia to ADHD, federal law covers a wide range
IDEA / U.S. Dept. of Ed
HOW COMMON IT IS
1 in 7
Public school students receive special education under federal law
U.S. Dept. of Education
AN IEP IS
Legally binding
The school must deliver every service written in the plan, by law
IDEA
Who qualifies
- Children ages 3 to 21 enrolled in Kentucky public schools
- Have a qualifying disability under IDEA, including learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, speech delays, emotional disturbance, and more
- A disability that affects their ability to learn
How to apply
The fastest way to get your child the help they need is through Turnout. Our education advocates prepare with you, join your IEP meetings, and push the school for every service your child is entitled to. Reach out to get started.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?
An IEP provides specialized instruction and services for a child with a disability. A 504 plan provides accommodations, like extra time or seating changes, but not specialized instruction. A child who needs more than accommodations usually needs an IEP.
How fast does the school have to evaluate my child in Kentucky?
Kentucky schools must complete the initial evaluation and decide if your child is eligible within 60 school days of getting your written consent, then hold the meeting to develop the IEP within 30 days of that eligibility decision.
What does an education advocate do?
An education advocate helps you understand your child's rights, prepares with you before meetings, joins your IEP meetings, and pushes back when the school offers less than the law requires.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Medicaid in Kentucky
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Kentucky residents.
Medicaid in Kentucky
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Kentucky residents.
Kentucky Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and more for those who qualify, usually at no cost. Kentucky expanded Medicaid in 2014, so most adults with low income can qualify, even without children. Coverage is delivered mostly through managed care plans, and you apply through kynect, the state's own benefits portal.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
1.4M+
Kentuckians enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP (approximate; per KFF)
KFF, 2025 (approx.)
MONTHLY PREMIUM
$0
Most enrollees pay nothing per month for full health coverage
Kentucky DMS, 2026
ADULT INCOME LIMIT
138% FPL
Because Kentucky expanded Medicaid, adults up to about 138 percent of the poverty level can qualify
KFF, 2026
Who qualifies
- Adults ages 19 to 64 with income up to about 138% of the federal poverty level, because Kentucky expanded Medicaid
- Pregnant women up to 200% FPL, with 12 months of postpartum coverage
- Children up to 218% FPL through KCHIP, Kentucky's children's health program
- Adults 65 and older, blind, or with a qualifying disability
- SSI recipients are automatically enrolled
How to apply
Apply through kynect at kynect.ky.gov, or call 1-855-459-6328. Have proof of income, identity, and Kentucky residency ready. Most decisions arrive within 45 days, longer if a disability determination is needed. kynect is the same portal you use for SNAP and other Kentucky benefits.
Frequently asked questions
Is Medicaid called something different in Kentucky?
No. Kentucky keeps the name Medicaid, run by the Department for Medicaid Services. You apply and manage it through kynect, and your care usually comes through a managed care plan you pick.
Did Kentucky expand Medicaid?
Yes. Kentucky expanded Medicaid in 2014, so most adults under about 138 percent of the poverty level can qualify, even childless adults. This is different from states that did not expand, where many adults get no coverage at all.
What's the difference between Medicaid and Medicare?
Medicaid is based on income. Medicare is based mainly on age or disability. Some people qualify for both.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SNAP in Kentucky
Monthly grocery benefits on an EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP in Kentucky
Monthly grocery benefits on an EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP helps qualifying Kentucky households buy groceries each month. Benefits are loaded onto a Kentucky EBT card and can be used at most grocery stores, Walmart, and many farmers markets. The program is run by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, and you apply through kynect, the same portal used for Medicaid.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
~595,000
Kentuckians received SNAP benefits on average each month in FY2025
USDA / USAFacts, FY2025
MAX BENEFIT (FAMILY OF 4)
$994/mo
Federal maximum SNAP allotment for a family of four in FY2026
USDA, FY2026
HOW FAST APPROVAL HAPPENS
7 days
Expedited benefits for households with very low income or urgent need; standard processing up to 30 days
USDA / Kentucky CHFS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Households with gross income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, because Kentucky uses broad-based categorical eligibility
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Kentucky
- Most adults age 16 to 59 must meet work requirements unless exempt
- Households with a member 60 or older or with a disability follow simpler income rules
How to apply
Apply online through kynect at kynect.ky.gov/benefits, or in person at your local DCBS office. An interview is required, but it can be done by phone. Standard processing takes up to 30 days, with expedited benefits within 7 days for urgent need. You can apply for SNAP and Medicaid through the same kynect account.
Frequently asked questions
I work full-time. Can I still qualify for SNAP in Kentucky?
Yes. Because Kentucky raised its gross income limit to 200 percent of the poverty level, many working households qualify once deductions for rent, utilities, childcare, and earned income are applied. Income alone does not tell the full story.
How long does SNAP approval take in Kentucky?
Up to 30 days for a standard decision. If your household has very low income and limited resources, you may qualify for expedited benefits within 7 days. An interview is required but can be done by phone.
Can I use my Kentucky EBT card online or at farmers markets?
Yes. The Kentucky EBT card is accepted at most grocery stores and at retailers like Walmart and Amazon for online orders, plus many farmers markets across the state.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Kentucky
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Kentucky
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, helps pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5 eat well. It provides monthly benefits for healthy groceries, plus breastfeeding support and nutrition help. Many working families qualify, and being on Medicaid, SNAP, or K-TAP usually qualifies you automatically.
BABIES WIC REACHES
4 in 10
WIC serves about 4 in 10 of all infants born in the US
USDA, 2024
ON MEDICAID OR SNAP?
Auto-eligible
Being on Medicaid, SNAP, or K-TAP automatically meets WIC's income test
USDA
WHO IT'S FOR
Through age 5
Pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5
USDA
Who qualifies
- Pregnant women, new mothers, and caregivers of infants and children under age 5
- Households at or below 185% of the federal poverty level
- Families already receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or K-TAP are automatically income-eligible
- Kentucky residents, regardless of immigration status
How to apply
Call your local health department or the state WIC office at 1-877-597-0367 to schedule an appointment. Bring ID for each family member applying, proof of Kentucky residency, and proof of income or proof of Medicaid, SNAP, or K-TAP enrollment. If approved, you receive your Kentucky eWIC card, which you load and use with the WICShopper app.
Frequently asked questions
What can you buy with WIC?
Healthy basics like milk, eggs, cereal, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and infant formula and baby food. The specific approved items are set by Kentucky's WIC food list.
Can I get WIC if I have a job?
Yes. Many working families qualify. WIC's income limit reaches 185 percent of the poverty level, and being on Medicaid or SNAP usually qualifies you automatically.
Does WIC cover baby formula?
Yes. WIC provides infant formula for babies who need it, and it also supports breastfeeding with counseling and ongoing help.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
LIHEAP in Kentucky
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
LIHEAP in Kentucky
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
Kentucky's Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps qualifying households pay their heating and cooling bills. The program is federally funded and run by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services through a statewide network of local Community Action Agencies. It has a Subsidy component in the fall for heating and a Crisis component in winter for households facing a shutoff.
INCOME LIMIT
130% FPL
Households at or below 130 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines can qualify for heating and crisis help
Kentucky CHFS, 2026
WINTER CRISIS HELP
Up to $400
Maximum crisis benefit for gas or electric bills during the winter crisis season; bulk fuel may be higher
Community Action Kentucky, 2025-2026
PAID DIRECTLY
To your utility
The benefit is credited to your energy account, not paid to you as cash
Kentucky CHFS
Who qualifies
- Kentucky households with income at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
- Renters and homeowners paying energy bills, or paying energy costs included in rent
- Priority given to households with older adults, young children, people with disabilities, or high energy burden
- Households facing a disconnect notice or nearly out of fuel qualify for the Crisis component
How to apply
Apply through your local Community Action Agency, not the state directly. Find your agency by calling 2-1-1 or visiting Community Action Kentucky at capky.org. Bring a current utility bill, photo ID for household members, proof of income, and any disconnection notice. The Subsidy component opens in the fall and the winter Crisis component runs into March, first come, first served, so apply early.
Frequently asked questions
What if my income is too high for LIHEAP?
Kentucky uses a 130 percent federal poverty guideline income limit for the state program. Some local agencies may use a different threshold, so it is worth applying and asking your Community Action Agency directly.
How is the benefit paid? Do I receive a check?
No. LIHEAP payments go directly to your utility company. The benefit is credited to your account, reducing what you owe or preventing a shutoff. You will not receive cash.
When can I apply in Kentucky?
The Subsidy component for heating typically opens in November and December, and the winter Crisis component runs from January into late March. Cooling help may be offered in summer when funds allow. Dates vary by agency, so check with yours.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
ACA Subsidies in Kentucky
Subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance bought through kynect.
ACA Subsidies in Kentucky
Subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance bought through kynect.
ACA subsidies are tax credits that reduce the monthly cost of a health insurance plan. In Kentucky, you buy that plan through kynect, the state's own health insurance marketplace, not HealthCare.gov. Because Kentucky expanded Medicaid, many lower-income adults are covered by Medicaid instead, while the marketplace serves people above that limit who need help paying for coverage.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
89K+
Kentuckians enrolled in a kynect marketplace plan for 2026 (approximate)
kynect / CMS, 2026 (approx.)
WHO QUALIFIES FOR SUBSIDIES
8 in 10
kynect enrollees receive premium tax credits that lower their monthly cost
kynect / CMS, 2026
WHERE YOU ENROLL
kynect
Kentucky runs its own marketplace at kynect.ky.gov, not HealthCare.gov
kynect, 2026
Who qualifies
- Kentuckians without affordable employer coverage available
- Households earning too much for Medicaid but who still need help paying premiums
- Those not eligible for Medicaid, KCHIP, or Medicare
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Kentucky
How to apply
Apply online at kynect.ky.gov, or call 1-855-459-6328. Enter household income, family size, and ZIP code to see your subsidy estimate and available plans, then compare by premium, deductible, and network. Enroll during open enrollment, which starts November 1, or after a qualifying life event like job loss, marriage, or the birth of a child. Free local help from kynectors is available.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kentucky on HealthCare.gov or its own marketplace?
Kentucky runs its own marketplace, called kynect, at kynect.ky.gov. You do not use HealthCare.gov in Kentucky. kynect is also where you apply for Medicaid and other state benefits.
What if I missed open enrollment?
You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you lost coverage, got married, had a baby, or had another qualifying life event. You generally have 60 days from the event.
What if my income is too low for kynect subsidies?
kynect checks you for Medicaid and KCHIP first. Because Kentucky expanded Medicaid, most adults under about 138 percent of the poverty level are covered by Medicaid at no cost rather than needing a marketplace plan.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
TANF in Kentucky (K-TAP)
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
TANF in Kentucky (K-TAP)
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
K-TAP, the Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program, is Kentucky's version of TANF. It provides short-term cash to families with children who have very limited income. The cash is loaded onto an EBT card and can be used for basic needs like rent, utilities, and transportation. The program is run by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services and comes with a 60-month lifetime limit and a work requirement through Kentucky Works.
MAXIMUM MONTHLY BENEFIT
$341
The maximum cash grant for a family of three with no countable income, after a benefit cut that took effect in November 2025
Kentucky CHFS via Kentucky Lantern, 2025
LIFETIME LIMIT
60 months
The lifetime cap on cash assistance for adults, the same as the federal limit
Kentucky CHFS, 2026
INCOME ELIGIBILITY LIMIT
$1,169/mo
The gross monthly income limit for a family of three to qualify, which is separate from and higher than the benefit paid
Kentucky 921 KAR 2:016, 2026
Who qualifies
- Kentucky residents responsible for a child under 18 (or 19 and still in secondary school)
- Households with very low income, under the gross monthly limit for their family size
- Adults must participate in the Kentucky Works program unless deferred
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens
How to apply
Apply online through kynect at kynect.ky.gov/benefits, or in person at your local DCBS office. Complete an interview to determine eligibility. Applying through kynect also screens you for SNAP and Medicaid. If approved, benefits are loaded onto an EBT card.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between K-TAP and TANF?
They are the same thing. K-TAP, the Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program, is simply Kentucky's name for the federal TANF program, run by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.
How much cash does K-TAP actually pay?
For a family of three with no other countable income, the maximum is $341 a month as of November 2025, down about 35 percent from the prior amount. Note this benefit is different from the income limit to qualify, which is higher.
Can I receive K-TAP and SNAP at the same time?
Yes. K-TAP recipients are generally categorically eligible for SNAP and Medicaid. Applying at kynect screens you for all three at the same time.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
EITC in Kentucky (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
EITC in Kentucky (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
The Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC, is a tax break for people who work but earn low to moderate income. It is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal tax. The amount depends on your income and family size, and you have to file a tax return to claim it. Kentucky does not have its own state EITC, so the federal credit is what applies.
WORTH UP TO
$8,231
The 2026 maximum for workers with three or more children, with smaller credits for fewer or no kids
IRS, 2026
OWE NO TAX?
Still get cash back
The EITC is refundable, so you receive the full amount as a refund even if you owe nothing
IRS
COMMONLY MISSED
1 in 5 skip it
About 1 in 5 eligible workers don't claim the EITC, often just because they don't file a return
IRS
Who qualifies
- Workers with earned income from a job or self-employment
- Income within the federal limits for filing status and number of children
- Valid Social Security numbers for the worker, spouse, and any children
- And more, including limits on investment income
How to apply
You claim the EITC by filing a federal tax return, even if you don't normally have to file. Claim it for the year you qualified, and you can still file for past years you missed. Free filing help is available through IRS-certified VITA volunteers across Kentucky. Kentucky does not add a state EITC, so there is nothing extra to file at the state level.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get EITC without kids?
No kids needed. Workers without children can still qualify for a smaller credit, and having children increases the amount.
Does Kentucky have its own state EITC?
No. Kentucky does not offer a state earned income tax credit. Only the federal EITC is available to Kentucky workers, though Kentucky does have a separate credit for child and dependent care costs.
Will getting EITC affect my other benefits?
Generally no. EITC refunds aren't counted as income for programs like SNAP or Medicaid, and there are protections so a refund doesn't immediately count against asset limits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Tax Credit in Kentucky
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
Child Tax Credit in Kentucky
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
The Child Tax Credit is a federal tax credit worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17, available to Kentucky families when they file their federal tax return. Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, meaning lower-income families can receive it as a direct payment even when they owe no federal tax. Kentucky does not have a separate state child tax credit, so the federal credit is what applies.
WHO IT'S FOR
Kids under 17
A federal tax credit for each qualifying child under 17 living at home
IRS
OWE LITTLE OR NO TAX?
Some comes back
Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal income tax
IRS, 2026
WHO QUALIFIES
Most families
Most families with children qualify; the credit only phases out at higher incomes
IRS
Who qualifies
- Families with a qualifying child under 17 with a valid Social Security number
- Part of the credit comes back as a refund for families with at least $2,500 in earned income
- Full credit for incomes up to $200,000, or $400,000 for married couples
How to apply
You claim the Child Tax Credit when you file a federal tax return. You can claim it even if you don't normally file. Tax software and free filing help will walk you through it and fill in the right forms (Schedule 8812) for you.
Frequently asked questions
Does my child need a Social Security number?
Yes. You, your spouse if filing jointly, and each qualifying child must have a valid Social Security number issued before the return due date.
What is the Additional Child Tax Credit?
The Additional Child Tax Credit is the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit. For 2026, up to $1,700 per child is refundable. You need at least $2,500 in earned income to qualify and claim it on Schedule 8812.
Does Kentucky have a state Child Tax Credit?
No. Kentucky does not have a state-level Child Tax Credit. The federal credit is fully available to Kentucky residents, but there is no additional state supplement on top of it.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Care Assistance in Kentucky
Subsidized child care for working Kentucky families.
Child Care Assistance in Kentucky
Subsidized child care for working Kentucky families.
Kentucky's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps working families pay for child care while parents work, attend school, or complete job training. It is funded by the federal Child Care and Development Fund and run by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services through its Division of Child Care. The program pays providers directly, with families paying a sliding-scale share based on income.
PARENT SHARE
Sliding scale
Families pay a co-pay based on income and family size; families below the poverty level pay nothing
Kentucky DCC, 2026
INCOME LIMIT
85% of state median
Families can qualify with income up to 85 percent of the state median income, a limit Kentucky raised from 160 percent of the poverty level
Kentucky DCC / KYCEP, 2026
PROVIDER CHOICE
You pick
You choose from any provider registered with the state, including licensed centers and family child care homes
Kentucky DCC
Who qualifies
- Kentucky residents with a child under 13, or under 19 with a disability or special need
- Parents who are working, attending school, or in job training
- Households with income at or below 85% of the state median income
- Child is a U.S. citizen or has qualified immigration status
How to apply
Apply online through kynect at kynect.ky.gov/benefits or contact your local DCBS office. You will need proof of income, identity for parent and child, and documentation of your work, school, or training schedule. Once approved, you choose a registered provider and the state pays them directly, with your sliding-scale co-pay based on income.
Frequently asked questions
How much can I earn and still qualify for CCAP in Kentucky?
Kentucky sets the income limit at 85 percent of the state median income, which it raised from 160 percent of the federal poverty level to cover more working families. Your exact limit depends on family size, so it is worth applying even if you think you earn too much.
Can I choose my own child care provider?
Yes. You can choose from any provider registered with the state, including licensed centers and licensed family child care homes.
How much will I have to pay out of pocket?
A sliding-scale co-pay applies based on your income and family size. Families below the federal poverty level pay nothing, while families closer to the income limit pay more.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
