Tennessee Child Care Payment Assistance

The Tennessee Child Care Payment Assistance program helps eligible families access affordable childcare, ensuring that children are in safe, nurturing environments while parents pursue work, education, or job training. This assistance program is available for families with low income, providing financial support to help cover childcare expenses.

How to Apply

To apply for Child Care Payment Assistance, you have two convenient options:

1. Apply Online: The quickest way to apply is through the One DHS Customer Portal. This online platform allows you to complete your application and track its status from the comfort of your home.
2. Paper Applications: If you prefer, you can also submit a paper application. Applications can be submitted via fax, mail, or in person at your local Department of Human Services office.

For more information and to start your application, visit the Tennessee Child Care Payment Assistance website. Here, you can find additional resources, eligibility details, and further instructions on how to get started.

The Tennessee Child Care Payment Assistance program is designed to support working families by making quality childcare more accessible.

Child Care Certificate Program (KidCentral TN)

The Child Care Certificate Program is designed to help Tennessee families, particularly those participating in Families First or transitioning off assistance, access affordable childcare services. This program provides certificates that can be used to pay for childcare services, ensuring that children are placed in safe and nurturing environments while parents pursue employment, education, or other self-sufficiency goals.

Program Benefits

• Support for Families First Participants: The program offers assistance to individuals who are currently enrolled in the Families First program, providing financial support for childcare expenses.
• Assistance for Parents Transitioning Off Assistance: For families moving off government assistance, the program ensures continued access to affordable childcare during the transition, helping them maintain their stability and independence.

To learn more or apply, visit the KidCentral TN Child Care Certificate Program page for detailed information, eligibility requirements, and the application process. The Child Care Certificate Program is here to support you in achieving a better future for your family.

Smart Steps Child Care Payment Assistance

The Smart Steps Child Care Payment Assistance program, provided by the Tennessee Department of Human Services, is designed to help low-income families access affordable childcare services. The program offers financial assistance for childcare expenses, ensuring that children are in safe, quality environments while parents work or pursue education and job training.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Smart Steps program, the following criteria must be met:

• Age of Children: Children must be between 6 weeks and 5 years old to be eligible for assistance.
• Income Guidelines: Household income must be below the 85th percentile of State Median Income to qualify for the program.

How to Apply

1. Apply Online: The simplest way to apply is through the One DHS Customer Portal. The online system allows you to submit your application and track its status easily from the comfort of your home.
2. Paper Applications: If you prefer, paper applications can be submitted via fax, mail, or in person at your local Department of Human Services office.

For more details, eligibility information, and to start your application, visit the Smart Steps Child Care Payment Assistance website.

The Smart Steps program provides families with essential childcare support, helping to create stability while working toward financial independence.