The Child Care Certificate Program in Tennessee, often referred to as the subsidized child care program, offers crucial financial assistance to families in need of childcare support. This state-funded initiative is designed to help various groups, including participants in Families First, parents transitioning off Families First, working parents, those pursuing post-secondary education, teen parents, and foster families. Administered by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) and the Department of Children’s Services (DCS) for children in foster care, these programs ensure that eligible families can access quality childcare services.
TDHS is committed to easing the financial burden of childcare for qualifying families through a range of child care assistance programs, making it possible for parents to work, attend school, or participate in required programs while ensuring their children are well cared for.
Understanding Eligibility for Child Care Certification Programs
Tennessee’s Child Care Certification Programs are structured to support diverse family circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility requirements for each program:
Families First Participants
For families actively participating in the Families First program, child care assistance is available to facilitate their engagement in approved activities outlined in their Personal Responsibility Plan (PRP). Eligibility for this program is determined by TDHS Family Assistance staff, ensuring that childcare support aligns with the family’s plan for self-sufficiency.
Transitional Child Care (TCC)
Transitional Child Care, also known as Transitional Families First (TFF), is designed to support families for up to 18 months after their Families First cash assistance benefits end. To qualify for TCC, families must demonstrate a commitment to work or education, with a requirement of at least thirty hours per week of paid employment, self-employment, and/or participation in education and training programs. Eligibility for TCC is reviewed every twelve months to ensure ongoing support for families in transition.
At-Risk Child Care Program
The At-Risk Child Care program specifically assists guardians in Families First child-only cases, such as grandparents, aunts, or uncles who are the primary caregivers for relative children. To be eligible, these guardians must be working or attending school and demonstrate a need for childcare to maintain their employment or educational pursuits. Similar to TCC, a minimum of thirty hours of paid work, self-employment, and/or education and training is required to receive At-Risk Child Care assistance.
Smart Steps Child Care Payment Assistance
Smart Steps is a key program providing child care payment assistance to income-eligible families with children from six weeks old up to kindergarten entry age. This program is specifically for families who are working or enrolled in post-secondary education programs and do not necessarily need to be receiving other TDHS benefits to qualify. Smart Steps aims to support working families by making quality childcare more accessible and affordable. For more detailed information, you can Click here for a Smart Steps Flyer.
Teen Parent Child Care Program
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by young parents, the Teen Parent Child Care Program offers assistance to teen parents who are enrolled in and attending high school and meet specific income guidelines. This program supports both teens living at home with their parents and emancipated teens living independently. Enrollment verification can be provided through school staff communication, highlighting the program’s accessibility and support for teen parents’ educational goals.
SNAP Employment and Training Child Care Program
For parents participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training Program (SNAP E&T), the SNAP Employment and Training Child Care Program provides crucial support. This assistance is available to parents who are actively enrolled and participating in the Employment Training Program through the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Eligibility is determined by the Department of Workforce and Development SNAP E&T staff, linking childcare support to workforce development initiatives.
TN Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Child Care Payment Assistance Program
The TN Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Child Care Payment Assistance Program caters to parents enrolled in treatment and recovery programs recognized by the TN Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (TDMHSAS). Eligibility for this specialized program is determined by TDMHSAS staff, ensuring that parents in recovery can access childcare, facilitating their journey towards well-being.
Re-Employment Child Care Payment Assistance Program
The Re-Employment Child Care Payment Assistance Program is designed for parents enrolled in the Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment Program (RESEA) through the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Referrals to this program are made by TDLWD staff, and eligible parents must have a household income below the 85th percentile of the State Median Income for the current Federal Fiscal year. This program supports parents actively seeking re-employment by providing access to affordable childcare.
It’s important to note that while TDHS manages the child care certificate and provider payment processes, the Department of Children’s Services (DCS) provides funding and manages fund utilization for specific funding sources related to children in foster care. DCS program staff at the county and regional levels handle child care referrals and local fund management, ensuring localized support and efficient resource allocation.
Applying for Child Care Certification Programs
Accessing these vital child care certification programs is made straightforward with multiple application options:
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Online Application: The most convenient method is to Apply online through the One DHS Customer Portal by clicking here. This portal allows you to manage your application and access other DHS services efficiently.
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Mail or In-Person Application: Alternatively, you can complete the application form and submit it via fax, mail, or in person at your local TDHS office.
For any questions or assistance regarding your child care payment assistance, the One DHS Contact Center is available at 1-833-772-TDHS (8347). You can also reach out via the One DHS General Inquiry webform by clicking here.
If you need to change your child care provider, this can easily be done through your One DHS Customer Portal. Simply log in, navigate to the ‘Benefits Dashboard’, and select ‘Change Provider’ in the ‘My Cases’ section.
Application Forms and Instructions:
For your convenience, application forms are available in multiple languages:
- Application for Child Care Payment Assistance/Smart Steps (HS-3408) – Instructions
- Application for Child Care Payment Assistance/Smart Steps (Spanish) (HS-3408sp) – Instructions
- Application for Child Care Payment Assistance/Smart Steps (Arabic) (HS-3408a) – Instructions
- Application for Child Care Payment Assistance/Smart Steps (Somali) (HS-3408s)- Instructions
Important Application Tip: Ensure you submit all required verification documents along with your application, as detailed on the first page of the application form.
Families First Applicants: If you are applying through Families First, please use the designated Families First link provided at the top of the program page, instead of the general application form.
Co-payments and Additional Support:
Some child care assistance programs require a co-payment based on income and household size. When you contact TDHS, you can also inquire about eligibility for other support programs such as SNAP/Food Stamps, TennCare/Medicaid, and cash assistance through Families First/TANF.
Flexibility in Childcare Choices:
Once approved for child care payment assistance, families have the flexibility to choose the type of care that best suits their needs. The Find Child Care locator tool assists in finding TDHS licensed or Department of Education (DOE) approved agencies. These agencies must participate or agree to participate in the Child Care Certificate program. For Families First Child Care, Transitional Child Care, or At-Risk Child Only Child Care, parents can also choose an individual provider. Individual providers must meet health and safety guidelines, pass background checks, and complete health and safety training before approval. TDHS sets reimbursement rates and directly pays the chosen and approved provider, simplifying the process for families.
For further information, refer to the Child Care Payment Assistance Fact Sheet.
Related Resources
Additional Information
- Current State Rate and QRIS Bonus Table (Effective 10-1-2024)
- Child Care Certificate Program Income Eligibility and Parent Co-Pay Fee Table
- FY 2024 Market Rate Survey
- Provider EAV and Modernization Information
