$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
Maine Government Benefits Programs
Explore the main benefit programs available and find the ones that apply to your situation.
Available programs in Maine
SSDI in Maine - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI in Maine - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) replaces part of your paycheck if a health condition keeps you from working. You earned this coverage through the Social Security taxes taken out of past paychecks. If you live in Maine and cannot work for at least a year, it is worth applying.
AVERAGE MONTHLY CHECK
$1,630
This is the 2026 average monthly SSDI benefit for a disabled worker.
SSA, 2026
WHAT COUNTS AS WORKING
$1,690/mo
Earning more than this in 2026 usually counts as substantial work and can block a claim.
SSA, 2026
HEALTH COVERAGE INCLUDED
24 months
Medicare starts 24 months after your SSDI cash benefits begin.
SSA/CMS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Worked and paid Social Security taxes in recent years
- Have a condition expected to last at least 12 months or be terminal
- Earn less than $1,690 a month ($2,830 if blind) in 2026
- Are under full retirement age
How to apply
The fastest way to file an SSDI claim is through Turnout. We start with a free consultation, prepare your application, and work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win. Our advocates handle the paperwork and appeals so you can focus on your health.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get approved?
Most first decisions take several months, and appeals can take longer. Applying with complete medical evidence up front is the best way to avoid delays.
Is SSDI different from SSI?
Yes. SSDI is based on your work history and taxes you paid in, while SSI is based on low income and limited resources. Some people qualify for both.
Can I work at all while on SSDI?
You can test working through a trial work period, which counts any month you earn more than $1,210 in 2026. Talk to an advocate before you start so you do not risk your benefits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SSI in Maine - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI in Maine - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a monthly payment for people who are disabled, blind, or 65 and older and who have very little income and few resources. Unlike SSDI, it does not depend on your work history. Maine adds a small state supplement on top of the federal payment.
MONTHLY FEDERAL PAYMENT
$994
This is the maximum federal SSI payment for one person in 2026.
SSA, 2026
PAYMENT FOR COUPLES
$1,491
This is the maximum federal SSI payment for an eligible couple in 2026.
SSA, 2026
RESOURCE LIMIT
$2,000
A single person can have up to $2,000 in countable resources and $3,000 for a couple.
SSA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Have limited income and resources
- Are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older
- Live in Maine and are a U.S. citizen or qualified noncitizen
- Have countable resources under $2,000 for one person or $3,000 for a couple
How to apply
The fastest way to file an SSI claim is through Turnout. We offer a free consultation and work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win. We help gather your medical and financial records and file everything correctly the first time.
Frequently asked questions
Does Maine add anything to the federal SSI payment?
Yes. Maine pays a state supplement of at least $8 a month for an individual and $12 for a couple who live independently, and people in a licensed boarding home get substantially more. The Maine Department of Health and Human Services administers it.
Can I get SSI and SSDI at the same time?
Yes, if your SSDI check is low enough you may get both. This is called concurrent benefits.
Will SSI give me health coverage?
In Maine, getting SSI generally makes you eligible for MaineCare, the state Medicaid program. Coverage usually starts once your SSI is approved.
Government resources
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Veterans Benefits in Maine
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
Veterans Benefits in Maine
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
VA disability compensation is a tax-free monthly payment for veterans with a service-connected condition. You earned it through your service. Maine adds its own benefits on top, including a property tax exemption and a full exemption of military retirement pay from state income tax.
MONTHLY 100% RATING
$3,938.58
This is the 2026 tax-free monthly payment for a veteran alone rated 100 percent disabled.
VA, 2026
PROPERTY TAX BREAK
$6,000
Qualifying wartime veterans age 62 or older or rated 100 percent disabled get $6,000 off their home's assessed value.
Maine Revenue Services, 2026
SPECIALLY ADAPTED HOUSING
$50,000
Paraplegic veterans with a federal specially adapted housing grant get $50,000 off their home's assessed value.
Maine Revenue Services, 2026
Who qualifies
- Served on active duty and did not receive a dishonorable discharge
- Have a current condition connected to your service
- Are a Maine resident applying for state property tax benefits
- Are a surviving spouse or dependent of a qualifying veteran
How to apply
The fastest way to file a VA disability claim is through Turnout. We start with a free consultation and work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win. For state benefits like the property tax exemption, we can point you to the right Maine office.
Frequently asked questions
Is VA disability pay taxed in Maine?
No. VA disability compensation is tax-free at both the federal and Maine state level. Maine also fully exempts military retirement pay from state income tax.
How do I get the Maine veteran property tax exemption?
File a one-time application with your local town or city assessor by April 1, along with your DD-214 or VA award letter. The exemption is $6,000 for most qualifying veterans and $50,000 for paraplegic veterans.
Who runs veterans services in Maine?
The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services offers free help, and county veterans service officers serve all 16 counties. VA disability itself is a federal benefit.
Government resources
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Healthcare Advocacy in Maine
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare Advocacy in Maine
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Medicare is federal health coverage for people 65 and older and for some younger people with disabilities. The choices between Original Medicare, Medigap, Advantage, and Part D drug plans can be confusing. In Maine, free trained counselors can walk you through it.
WHO GETS MEDICARE
65+
Most people qualify at age 65, and some younger people with disabilities qualify sooner.
CMS, 2026
DISABILITY WAIT
24 months
People on SSDI qualify for Medicare 24 months after cash benefits begin.
SSA/CMS, 2026
FREE MAINE COUNSELING
$0
Maine's SHIP counselors give free, unbiased Medicare help.
Maine OADS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Are age 65 or older
- Have received SSDI for 24 months
- Have ALS or end-stage renal disease
- Are a legal resident who has lived in the U.S. for at least 5 years
How to apply
The fastest way to understand your Medicare options in Maine is through Turnout. Our healthcare advocacy is covered by Medicare at no cost to you. We help you compare plans and avoid gaps or late penalties.
Frequently asked questions
Is Medicare the same as MaineCare?
No. Medicare is federal coverage mostly for people 65 and older, while MaineCare is Maine's Medicaid program based on income. Some people qualify for both and get help paying Medicare costs.
Where can I get free Medicare help in Maine?
Maine's State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free counseling through the Office of Aging and Disability Services and the Area Agencies on Aging. Call 1-877-353-3771.
When should I sign up to avoid penalties?
Sign up during the 7-month window around your 65th birthday unless you have qualifying coverage from a current employer. Missing it can mean lifelong late penalties.
Government resources
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Education Advocacy in Maine
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education Advocacy in Maine
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a written plan that spells out the special education services your child gets at school. It is a right under federal law for children with disabilities. In Maine, these rights are set out in the Maine Unified Special Education Regulation (MUSER).
EVALUATION TIMELINE
45 school days
Maine schools must finish an initial evaluation within 45 school days of getting signed parent consent.
Maine DOE MUSER, 2026
COVERED AGES
Birth to 22
Maine special education rights run from birth through age 22.
Maine DOE MUSER, 2026
REEVALUATION CYCLE
Every 3 years
Schools must reevaluate a child at least once every 3 years unless the parent and school agree it is not needed.
Maine DOE MUSER, 2026
Who qualifies
- Are a parent or guardian of a child with a suspected disability
- Have a child from birth through age 22 in Maine
- Have a child whose disability affects learning at school
- Want to request an evaluation or challenge a school decision
How to apply
The fastest way to get ready for the IEP process is through Turnout. Our education advocates prepare with you and join IEP meetings so you are not alone at the table. We help you request evaluations and understand your rights under MUSER.
Frequently asked questions
How do I start the IEP process in Maine?
Put your request for an evaluation in writing to your child's school and sign the consent form. Maine's 45-school-day clock starts once the school has your signed consent.
Is Maine's evaluation timeline different from the federal one?
Yes. The federal default is 60 calendar days, but Maine's MUSER rules require initial evaluations within 45 school days of signed consent. School days do not count holidays and breaks.
Can I get an outside evaluation if I disagree with the school?
Yes. You can request an Independent Educational Evaluation, and the school must pay for it or prove its own evaluation was proper through a hearing.
Government resources
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MaineCare (Medicaid)
MaineCare is Maine's Medicaid program, run by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services.
MaineCare (Medicaid)
MaineCare is Maine's Medicaid program, run by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services.
MaineCare is Maine's name for Medicaid, which gives free or low-cost health coverage to eligible residents. Maine expanded Medicaid in January 2019, so adults with no children can qualify too. Most groups have no asset test, so savings will not block you.
ADULT INCOME LIMIT
138% FPL
Adults ages 19 to 64 qualify with income up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level, about $1,800 a month for one person.
Maine DHHS, 2026
COVERAGE FOR KIDS
Up to 300% FPL
Children under 21 qualify up to 300 percent of the poverty level (305 percent with the standard disregard), through MaineCare and CHIP (formerly Cub Care).
Maine DHHS Rule #303A, 2024
SAVINGS DON'T COUNT
No asset test
Most MaineCare groups, including expansion adults, have no asset test.
Maine DHHS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Are an adult age 19 to 64 with income up to 138 percent of the poverty level
- Are a child, pregnant, or a parent or caretaker
- Are aged, blind, or have a disability
- Live in Maine and are a citizen or qualified noncitizen
How to apply
Apply online through My Maine Connection, Maine's benefits portal, or call the Office for Family Independence at 1-855-797-4357. Have your income, household size, and citizenship documents ready. Most applications are decided within 45 days, and disability cases can take up to 90 days.
Frequently asked questions
Is MaineCare the same as Medicaid?
Yes. MaineCare is just Maine's name for the federal-state Medicaid program. It is run by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services.
Can adults without kids get MaineCare?
Yes. Because Maine expanded Medicaid in 2019, adults ages 19 to 64 with income up to 138 percent of the poverty level qualify even if they have no children.
What if my income is a little too high?
You may still qualify through the spend-down program, where medical bills count against your excess income. If not, CoverME.gov offers subsidized private plans.
Government resources
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Food Supplement Program (SNAP)
Maine calls SNAP the Food Supplement Program, run by the DHHS Office for Family Independence.
Food Supplement Program (SNAP)
Maine calls SNAP the Food Supplement Program, run by the DHHS Office for Family Independence.
The Food Supplement Program is Maine's name for SNAP, the federal food benefit. It puts money on a card called the Pine Tree Card that you use to buy groceries. Maine's rules are more generous than the federal minimum, so many working families qualify.
MAX FOR FAMILY OF 4
$994/mo
This is the most a family of four can get each month in 2026.
USDA FNS, 2026
GENEROUS INCOME LIMIT
200% FPL
Maine uses broad-based categorical eligibility to raise the gross income limit to 200 percent of the poverty level.
Maine DHHS OFI, 2026
EMERGENCY FOOD HELP
7 days
Households in urgent need can get expedited benefits within 7 days.
7 CFR 273, 2026
Who qualifies
- Have gross income up to 200 percent of the poverty level
- Live in Maine and buy and prepare food together as a household
- Are a citizen or an eligible noncitizen
- Meet work rules if you are an able-bodied adult without dependents
How to apply
Apply online through My Maine Connection or call the Office for Family Independence at 1-855-797-4357. You will need proof of identity, income, and household expenses, and you must complete a short interview. The office has 30 days to decide standard applications.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Food Supplement Program?
It is Maine's name for SNAP, the federal food assistance program. Benefits load onto an EBT card called the Pine Tree Card.
There is no asset test?
Correct. Because Maine uses broad-based categorical eligibility, most households have no asset test, so savings and retirement accounts do not count against you.
Can I use my benefits at farmers markets?
Yes. Many Maine farmers markets accept the Pine Tree Card, and the Maine Harvest Bucks program matches your spending on fruits and vegetables.
Government resources
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WIC in Maine
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC in Maine
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC helps pregnant people, new parents, babies, and young children under 5 eat well. It gives healthy food, nutrition advice, and breastfeeding support. In Maine, benefits load onto an eWIC card you use at approved stores.
INCOME LIMIT
185% FPL
Households at or below 185 percent of the poverty level qualify, about $59,478 a year for a family of four.
Maine CDC, 2026
MAINERS SERVED
18,000
About 18,000 Maine residents get WIC benefits.
Maine CDC, 2026
COVERS KIDS UNTIL
Age 5
Infants and children can get WIC up to their fifth birthday.
Maine CDC, 2026
Who qualifies
- Are pregnant, recently pregnant, or breastfeeding
- Have an infant or child under age 5
- Have household income at or below 185 percent of the poverty level
- Already get MaineCare, SNAP, or TANF, which makes you automatically income-eligible
How to apply
Contact your local Maine WIC clinic to set up an appointment, or fill out the contact form on the Maine CDC WIC website and a staff member will call you. Your first visit takes about an hour and includes a short health screening. Bring proof of income, identity, and address.
Frequently asked questions
Can working families and dads get WIC?
Yes. Working families, single fathers, foster parents, and grandparents raising children can all apply on behalf of an eligible child. Income is only one part of eligibility.
How do WIC benefits work in Maine?
Maine uses an eWIC card that works like a debit card at approved stores. You can also use the WIC Shopper app to check your balance and see approved foods.
Can I get both WIC and SNAP?
Yes. WIC and the Food Supplement Program (SNAP) are separate, so a family can receive both at the same time.
Government resources
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Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
Maine's LIHEAP is the Home Energy Assistance Program, run by MaineHousing through Community Action Agencies.
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
Maine's LIHEAP is the Home Energy Assistance Program, run by MaineHousing through Community Action Agencies.
The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is Maine's version of LIHEAP, the federal home heating help. It pays part of your heating bill straight to your fuel vendor. MaineHousing runs it through local Community Action Agencies in all 16 counties.
INCOME LIMIT
150% FPL or 60% SMI
You qualify at the greater of 150 percent of the poverty level or 60 percent of state median income.
MaineHousing, 2026
EMERGENCY CRISIS HELP
Up to $500
The Energy Crisis Intervention Program gives a one-time benefit of up to $500 when you are nearly out of heat.
MaineHousing, 2026
HOUSEHOLDS HELPED
45,000+
More than 45,000 Maine households got HEAP help in the 2025 season.
MaineHousing, 2026
Who qualifies
- Have household income at or below the program limit
- Pay for home heating, either directly or through rent
- Live in Maine as a homeowner or renter
- Are facing a heating emergency, for crisis help through ECIP
How to apply
Apply online at MaineHousing's website or contact your local Community Action Agency by phone or in person. The 2025-2026 season runs from August through late May, with crisis help through April 30. Bring proof of income, Social Security numbers, and a recent heating bill.
Frequently asked questions
Who runs heating assistance in Maine?
MaineHousing runs HEAP through a network of Community Action Agencies that serve all 16 counties. It is funded by the federal LIHEAP program.
What if I run out of heat right now?
You may qualify for the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP), a one-time benefit of up to $500 if you have less than a seven-day supply of fuel. Contact your local Community Action Agency right away.
Is there help beyond fuel bills?
Yes. If you qualify for HEAP you may also get help with energy-related home repairs and the Central Heating Improvement Program to fix or replace a broken heating system.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
CoverME.gov (Health Insurance Marketplace)
Maine runs its own state marketplace, CoverME.gov, not the federal HealthCare.gov.
CoverME.gov (Health Insurance Marketplace)
Maine runs its own state marketplace, CoverME.gov, not the federal HealthCare.gov.
CoverME.gov is Maine's own health insurance marketplace, where you can buy a private health plan and get help paying for it. It launched for the 2022 plan year, replacing the federal HealthCare.gov for Maine. Most enrollees get financial help to lower their premiums.
MAINERS ENROLLED
58,523
This many Mainers picked a plan for 2026 through CoverME.gov.
Maine DHHS, 2026
GET HELP PAYING
Nearly 3 in 4
Nearly three in four enrollees got tax credits to lower their premiums in 2026.
Maine DHHS, 2026
AVERAGE NET PREMIUM
$178/mo
Enrollees getting tax credits paid about $178 a month on average in 2026.
Maine DHHS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Live in Maine and lack affordable coverage through a job
- Are not enrolled in Medicare or MaineCare
- Are a citizen or lawfully present resident
- Are enrolling during open enrollment or after a qualifying life event
How to apply
Create an account and enroll at CoverME.gov, or call the Consumer Assistance Center at 1-866-636-0355 for free help. Open enrollment runs November 1 through January 15, and you need a qualifying life event to enroll at other times. Have your household income and Social Security numbers ready.
Frequently asked questions
Do I use HealthCare.gov in Maine?
No. Maine runs its own marketplace, CoverME.gov, which is the only place Mainers can get financial help to lower premiums. HealthCare.gov is for other states.
Can I still get financial help for 2026?
Yes. Nearly three in four CoverME.gov enrollees still got tax credits for 2026, though the extra enhanced credits expired at the end of 2025, so many premiums rose.
What if I lost MaineCare?
You can enroll through a special enrollment period. Log in to CoverME.gov and select 'Recently Lost MaineCare' to shop for a plan.
Government resources
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TANF (Cash Assistance)
Short-term cash for families with children in financial crisis.
TANF (Cash Assistance)
Short-term cash for families with children in financial crisis.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) gives monthly cash to low-income families with children. In Maine it comes with the ASPIRE work and training program. Payments load onto the Pine Tree Card, and there is a 60-month lifetime limit.
MAX MONTHLY GRANT
~$895
A single-parent family of three with no income can receive up to about $895 a month, a figure that rises each October with the SSA cost-of-living increase.
Maine DHHS 10-144 Ch.331, 2026
LIFETIME LIMIT
60 months
Adults can get TANF for up to 60 months over a lifetime, with some exceptions.
Maine DHHS, 2026
WORK PROGRAM
ASPIRE
Most adults must take part in the ASPIRE work and training program.
Maine DHHS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Are a family with a child under 19 living at home
- Have very low income and limited assets
- Live in Maine and are a citizen or qualified noncitizen
- Take part in ASPIRE unless you have good cause not to
How to apply
Apply online through My Maine Connection or call the Office for Family Independence at 1-855-797-4357 and select the TANF option. You can also apply by mail, email, fax, or in person at a district office. A caseworker will schedule an interview to check your eligibility.
Frequently asked questions
Is the max grant the same as the income limit?
No. The maximum grant is the most cash a family with no income can receive, about $895 a month for a family of three after the October 2025 cost-of-living increase. The income limit is a separate test based on your family size and countable income.
What is ASPIRE?
ASPIRE stands for Additional Support for People in Retraining and Employment. It is Maine's work and training program that most TANF parents must join, and it provides supports like childcare and transportation.
How long can I get TANF?
There is a 60-month lifetime limit, though hardship extensions exist for situations like domestic violence or being unable to work. You should ask about extensions before your months run out.
Government resources
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Earned Income Tax Credit (Federal & Maine EIC)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
Earned Income Tax Credit (Federal & Maine EIC)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) puts money back in the pockets of working people with low or moderate income. You get the federal credit when you file your taxes, and Maine adds its own credit on top. Both are refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no tax.
MAX FEDERAL CREDIT
$8,231
The largest federal credit in 2026 goes to workers with three or more children.
IRS, 2026
MAINE ADDS ON TOP
25%
Maine's credit equals 25 percent of your federal credit, or 50 percent if you have no qualifying children.
Maine Revenue Services, 2026
NO KIDS CREDIT
$664
Workers without children can still get a federal credit of up to $664 in 2026.
IRS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Have earned income from work or self-employment
- Have income within the yearly limits for your family size
- Have a valid Social Security number (or ITIN for the Maine credit)
- File a tax return, even if you owe nothing
How to apply
Claim the EITC by filing a federal tax return and a Maine return; the Maine credit is claimed on Form 1040ME, Schedule A. Free filing help is available through CA$H Maine and IRS VITA sites. You must file to get the money, even if you are not otherwise required to file.
Frequently asked questions
Does Maine have its own EITC?
Yes. Maine's Earned Income Credit equals 25 percent of the federal credit, and 50 percent for workers with no qualifying children. It is refundable for Maine residents.
Can I get both the federal and Maine credits?
Yes. You claim the federal EITC on your federal return and the Maine EIC on your state return, so eligible workers get both.
Do I qualify if I have no children?
Yes. Workers without children who are at least 18 can qualify for a smaller federal credit and Maine's larger 50 percent state match.
Government resources
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Child Tax Credit
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
Child Tax Credit
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
The Child Tax Credit (CTC) lowers your federal taxes and can give you money back for each qualifying child. Maine does not have its own child tax credit, but it does offer a Dependent Exemption Tax Credit that works in a similar way. You claim the federal credit when you file your return.
MAX PER CHILD
$2,200
The federal credit is worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child.
IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32, 2026
REFUNDABLE PORTION
$1,700
Up to $1,700 per child can come back as a refund even if you owe no tax.
IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32, 2026
MAINE DEPENDENT CREDIT
$305 to $610
Maine's Dependent Exemption Tax Credit is $305 per dependent age 6 and older and $610 per dependent under age 6.
Maine Revenue Services, TY2025
Who qualifies
- Have a qualifying child under age 17 at the end of the year
- Have income within the federal phase-out limits
- Have a child with a valid Social Security number
- File a federal tax return claiming the child as a dependent
How to apply
Claim the Child Tax Credit on your federal tax return, and claim Maine's Dependent Exemption Tax Credit on your Maine return. Free filing help is available through CA$H Maine and IRS VITA sites. You must file a return to receive either credit.
Frequently asked questions
Does Maine have a state child tax credit?
No. Maine does not have a separate state child tax credit, but it offers a Dependent Exemption Tax Credit of $305 per dependent age 6 and older and $610 per dependent under age 6. The federal Child Tax Credit applies regardless.
How much is the federal credit?
The federal Child Tax Credit is worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child, with up to $1,700 refundable. The exact refund depends on your income.
Do I need income to get the credit?
You generally need some earned income for the refundable part. Filing a tax return is required even if you earn too little to owe tax.
Government resources
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Child Care Affordability Program (CCAP)
Maine's child care subsidy is the Child Care Affordability Program, formerly the Child Care Subsidy Program.
Child Care Affordability Program (CCAP)
Maine's child care subsidy is the Child Care Affordability Program, formerly the Child Care Subsidy Program.
The Child Care Affordability Program (CCAP) helps Maine families pay for child care so parents can work, go to school, or train for a job. It was formerly called the Child Care Subsidy Program. You pick an approved provider and pay a share on a sliding scale.
INCOME LIMIT
125% SMI
Families with income at or below 125 percent of the state median income may qualify.
Maine DHHS OCFS, 2026
LOWEST-INCOME COPAY
$0
Families under 30 percent of state median income pay no copay.
Maine DHHS OCFS, 2026
YOUR SHARE
7% or 10% cap
Copays are capped at 7 percent of income below 85 percent of state median income and 10 percent from 85 to 125 percent.
Maine DHHS 10-148 CMR Ch.6, 2025
Who qualifies
- Have family income at or below 125 percent of state median income
- Are working, in school, or in job training, or are a retired legal guardian
- Have a child who is a citizen or qualified noncitizen
- Live in Maine and choose an approved CCAP provider
How to apply
Apply online through Baxter, Maine's child care management system, or contact the Office of Child and Family Services. You will need proof of income, your work or school status, and your child's information. If funding is limited, new applicants may be placed on a waitlist, with priority for families under 30 percent of state median income, children experiencing homelessness, and children with special needs.
Frequently asked questions
What was CCAP called before?
It was the Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP). Maine renamed it the Child Care Affordability Program and raised the income limit to 125 percent of state median income.
How much will I pay?
Your copay is capped at 7 percent of income if you earn below 85 percent of state median income, and 10 percent if you earn between 85 and 125 percent, paid directly to your provider. Families under 30 percent of state median income pay nothing.
Who runs CCAP?
The Maine DHHS Office of Child and Family Services runs it. You apply and manage your case through the Baxter online system.
Government resources
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