Navigating Child Care Payment Assistance: Your One Step Care Program Guide

Finding affordable and quality child care is a crucial step for working parents and those pursuing education. The Child Care Certificate Program, often referred to as subsidized child care, offers vital financial assistance to eligible families. This program supports Families First participants, parents transitioning off assistance, working parents, parents in post-secondary education, teen parents, and foster children, ensuring that more families have access to the care they need. Managed by the Department of Human Services (TDHS) and the Department of Children’s Services (DCS) for foster care cases, this program makes quality child care accessible.

Who Qualifies for the One Step Care Program?

Eligibility for child care payment assistance is determined by several factors, ensuring support reaches those who need it most. Here’s a breakdown of who can qualify under this One Step Care Program:

Smart Steps Program Applicants: Parents applying for the Smart Steps program with incomes below the 85th percentile of the State Median Income are eligible. This applies to families with children from six weeks old until kindergarten entry. Crucially, these parents must be working, enrolled in a post-secondary education program, or a combination of both, for an average of 30 hours or more per week.
Teen Parents in Education: High school or middle school mothers participating in the Teen Parent program and staying in school are eligible for assistance. This ensures young mothers can continue their education while providing care for their children.
Families First Program Participants: Parents actively participating in the Families First program who require child care to fulfill their personal responsibility plan’s work activities are automatically eligible for support.
Transitional Support for Former Families First Participants: Families who have transitioned off Families First can receive child care assistance for up to 18 months after their case closure. This transitional support is available if each parent in the household works an average of 30 hours or more weekly, easing the transition to self-sufficiency.
Non-Parental Guardians in Families First: Non-parental guardians within the Families First program who need child care for a related child are also eligible. Similar to transitional support, guardians must be engaged in an average of 30 or more hours of work, training, or education per week.

Applying for Your One Step Care Program: A Streamlined Process

Applying for child care payment assistance is designed to be straightforward. Tennessee offers multiple avenues to apply, ensuring accessibility for all families.

Apply Online via the One DHS Customer Portal is the quickest and most efficient method. This online portal allows you to submit your application and manage your case digitally.

For those who prefer paper applications, you can download and submit them through various methods:

You can fax, mail, or physically bring your completed paper application to your local TDHS office.

Important: Complete Applications are Key – Ensure you submit all required verification documents with your application, whether online or paper-based. Incomplete applications will not be processed.

Essential Documents for Your Application

To ensure your application is processed efficiently, gather the necessary documents. These verifications help confirm eligibility and streamline the approval process.

Proof of Identity (for each parent/guardian in the home – at least one required):

Driver’s License
State Issued ID
Voter’s Registration Card (Tennessee)
I-94 Card
Passport

Verification of Current Residency (at least one required, in parent/guardian’s name):

Rent/Lease Agreement
Mortgage Receipt
Utility Bill

Citizenship Verification (for each child needing care – at least one required):

U.S. Passport
Certificate of U.S. Citizenship (DHS Forms N-560 or N-561)
Birth Certificate
Hospital, Clinic, or Doctor Records
Report or Certificate of Birth Abroad of a U.S. Citizen

Relationship Verification (if applicable – Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate, Court Orders, etc.):

Spouse/Partner/Other Parent
Sibling
Other children requiring assistance due to custody or birth

Income Verification (for each parent/guardian in the home – at least one required):

Pay Stubs: Most recent eight (8) weeks for each employed parent/guardian/spouse.
Employer Statement: On company letterhead, signed and dated (if employed within eight weeks or if wage/hours changed recently).
Federal 1040: Most recent year, for self-employment verification ONLY.
Award Letters (e.g., for benefits).
Self-Employment Reporting and Verification Form HS-3177
Child Care Certificate Program Verification of Employment Form HS-3550
Child Support Verification: Court order or payment records.

School/College Enrollment Verification (for parents/guardians):

Current Class Schedule: Per semester/quarter, verifying registration and attendance.

Additional Verifications: Be prepared to provide any other documents requested to determine eligibility.

Families First Recipients: If you are currently receiving Families First benefits, contact your Client Service Representative for specific eligibility information and streamlined application processes.

Alt text: A young child happily engages with colorful building blocks, representing the enriching care provided through the Child Care Payment Assistance program.

Finding a Child Care Provider in Your Network

Locating a suitable child care provider is simplified with the Find Child Care tool. This online resource allows you to search for providers by address, provider name, or county. To find providers who accept child care payment assistance, simply filter your search by selecting the “Accepts Child Care Assistance Program” option. This ensures you find quality care within your network that aligns with your financial support.

Understanding Your Co-Pay Responsibilities

If you qualify for child care payment assistance, you will have a co-pay amount to contribute towards the cost of care. The co-pay chart provides an estimate of your payment based on your income and the number of children in care. You will receive your exact co-pay amount upon qualification.

Payment Responsibility: It is critical to pay your designated co-pay amount consistently and on time. Failure to meet your co-pay obligations may result in your child’s termination from the child care program.

Current State Rate and QRIS Rating Bonus Table provides further details on reimbursement rates and quality bonuses for providers, reflecting the state’s commitment to quality child care.

Alt text: A smiling parent and child share a joyful moment, illustrating the peace of mind and support the One Step Care Program offers families.

Transferring Child Care Providers When Needed

Life changes, and sometimes you may need to transfer your child to a different care provider. A Child Care Center transfer can be easily requested through your One DHS Customer Portal. Log into your account, navigate to the ‘Benefits Dashboard,’ and find the ‘My Cases’ section. Select ‘Change Provider’ to access and complete the transfer request form.

Families First Transfers: If you are a Families First recipient, please contact your assigned Client Service Representative for guidance and assistance with transfer requests, ensuring a smooth transition.

Additional Resources for Parents and Guardians

Tennessee offers a wealth of resources to support parents and guardians beyond payment assistance. Explore additional child resources here. These resources provide valuable information on choosing the right child care, understanding different provider types, and how the state assesses child care quality. You can also find information on the importance of regular check-ups and developmental screenings for children, promoting their healthy growth and development.

For crucial information on safe sleep practices for babies, please refer to these tips.

Furthermore, if you are eligible for child care payment assistance, you might also qualify for other support programs. Explore these programs to see if you can receive assistance with other needs, creating a holistic support system for your family.

Questions About Your One Step Care Program?

For any questions regarding your child care payment assistance, the One DHS Contact Center is readily available to help. Contact them at 1-833-772-TDHS (8347) or submit your inquiries via the One DHS General Inquiry webform, accessible by clicking here. Their dedicated team is there to provide support and answers to your questions.

Share Your Experience: Customer Survey

Your feedback is valuable! Please take a moment to share your experience applying for child care payment assistance. Your input helps improve the program and service delivery for other families.

This One Step Care Program is designed to provide accessible and comprehensive support for families seeking quality child care. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and available resources, you can navigate your path to securing the best care for your children with confidence.