Finding quality and affordable child care is a significant concern for many families. The Day Care Certificate Program, also known as the subsidized child care program, offers crucial financial assistance to eligible families, ensuring children receive the care they need while parents work, attend school, or participate in required programs. This program is designed to support various groups, including participants in Families First, parents transitioning off assistance, working parents, those in education, teen parents, and foster families. Administered by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) and the Department of Children’s Services (DCS), this initiative makes child care more accessible for those who qualify.
Understanding Eligibility for the Day Care Certificate Program
Eligibility for the Day Care Certificate Program is determined by several factors and caters to different family situations. Here’s a breakdown of the various categories under which families can qualify for child care assistance:
Families First Participants
Families actively participating in the Families First program can receive day care assistance to support their Personal Responsibility Plan (PRP) activities. To access this benefit, families must first be deemed eligible by the TDHS Family Assistance staff. This ensures that child care supports the family’s progress towards self-sufficiency as outlined in their PRP.
Transitional Child Care (TCC)
For families transitioning off Families First cash assistance, Transitional Child Care (TCC) provides support for up to 18 months. To remain eligible for TCC, families must meet a work requirement of 30 hours per week. This can include paid employment, self-employment, and hours spent in education or training. Eligibility for TCC is reviewed every 12 months to ensure continued need and compliance with program requirements.
At-Risk Child Care Program
The At-Risk Child Care program is designed for guardians in Families First child-only cases, such as grandparents, aunts, or uncles who are caring for a relative child. To qualify for this program, these guardians must also be working or attending school for at least 30 hours per week. This program recognizes the vital role of these guardians and helps them manage child care costs while maintaining employment or pursuing education.
Smart Steps Child Care Payment Assistance
Smart Steps is a broader child care payment assistance program available to income-eligible families who are working or enrolled in post-secondary education. Unlike some other categories, families do not need to be receiving other TDHS benefits to qualify for Smart Steps. This program supports children from six weeks of age up until they enter kindergarten, making it a crucial resource for working parents with young children.
Teen Parent Child Care Program
Teen parents who are still in high school and meet specific income guidelines can benefit from the Teen Parent Child Care Program. Assistance is available whether the teen parent lives at home with their parents or is emancipated and living independently. Verification of school enrollment from school staff is required to confirm eligibility, highlighting the program’s focus on supporting education for young parents.
SNAP Employment and Training Child Care Program
Parents participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training Program (SNAP E&T) may also be eligible for child care assistance. This program supports parents who are actively enrolled in 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 child care support to workforce development initiatives.
TN Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Child Care Payment Assistance Program
For parents enrolled in treatment and recovery programs through the TN Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (TDMHSAS), child care payment assistance is available. Eligibility for this program is determined by TDMHSAS staff, recognizing the importance of child care in supporting parents undergoing treatment and recovery.
Re-Employment Child Care Payment Assistance Program
The Re-Employment Child Care Payment Assistance Program assists parents enrolled in the Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment Program (RESEA). Referrals for this program come from TDLWD staff, and eligible parents must have a household income below the 85th percentile of the State Median Income. This program is designed to support parents actively seeking re-employment by removing child care barriers.
Department of Children’s Services (DCS) Support
TDHS also administers the Day Care Certificate Program for children under the care of the Department of Children’s Services (DCS). DCS provides the funding and manages fund utilization, while county and regional DCS staff handle child care referrals and local fund management. This partnership ensures that children in foster care have access to necessary child care services.
Applying for the Day Care Certificate Program
Applying for the Day Care Certificate Program is a straightforward process with multiple options to suit your convenience:
Online Application
The most convenient method is to apply online through the One DHS Customer Portal. This online portal allows you to submit your application and manage your case efficiently. Apply online through the One DHS Customer Portal by clicking here.
Paper Application
Alternatively, you can download and complete a paper application. Once completed, you can fax, mail, or bring the application to your local TDHS office. Paper applications are available in multiple languages to ensure accessibility for all families:
- 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 Note: Ensure you submit all required verification documents along with your application. The necessary documents are listed on the first page of the application form. For Families First applicants, the application process is through the Families First link, not the general application form.
Additional Key Information
Co-payments
Some child care assistance programs require a co-payment based on income and household size. You can discuss co-payment details and potential eligibility for other support programs like SNAP/Food Stamps, TennCare/Medicaid, and Families First/TANF during the application process. Refer to the Child Care Certificate Program Income Eligibility and Parent Co-Pay Fee Table for detailed information.
Choosing a Child Care Provider
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 can help families find TDHS licensed or Department of Education (DOE) approved agencies. The chosen agency must participate in or agree to participate in the Child Care Certificate program. For certain programs like Families First Child Care, Transitional Child Care, or At-Risk Child Only Child Care, families can also choose an individual provider. Individual providers must meet health and safety guidelines, pass a background check, and complete health and safety training. TDHS sets reimbursement rates and pays the approved provider directly, simplifying the payment process for families.
For further details, the Child Care Payment Assistance Fact Sheet offers a comprehensive overview of the program.
Conclusion
The Day Care Certificate Program is a vital resource for Tennessee families, providing crucial financial assistance to make quality child care accessible. By understanding the eligibility criteria and application process, families can leverage this program to support their children’s development and their own journey towards financial stability and personal growth. Whether you are a working parent, pursuing education, or transitioning through different life circumstances, the Day Care Certificate Program may be able to provide the support you need to ensure your children are well cared for. For any questions or assistance, please contact the One DHS Contact Center at 1-833-772-TDHS (8347) or via the One DHS General Inquiry webform.
