Navigating Child Care Costs: Understanding the Care Relief Program

Affording quality child care can be a significant hurdle for many families. Fortunately, various initiatives exist to ease this financial strain, and in Tennessee, the Care Relief Program, known formally as the Child Care Certificate Program, stands as a crucial support system. This state-funded program is designed to provide child care payment assistance to eligible families, ensuring that parents can access safe and nurturing care for their children while they work, pursue education, or participate in essential activities. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to understanding this vital care relief program, exploring eligibility, application processes, and how it can benefit your family.

Who Can Benefit from the Care Relief Program?

The Care Relief Program is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and specific eligibility criteria are in place to ensure assistance reaches those who need it most. The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) and the Department of Children’s Services (DCS) play key roles in determining who qualifies for this care relief program. Below are the primary categories of families who may be eligible for child care payment assistance:

Smart Steps Applicants: Parents applying for the Smart Steps program with incomes below the 85th percentile of the State Median Income may qualify for the care relief program. This is particularly relevant for families with children from six weeks old until kindergarten age. To be eligible under this category, 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 this care relief program, recognizing the unique challenges faced by young parents pursuing their education.
Families First Participants: Parents actively participating in the Families First program who require child care to fulfill the work activities outlined in their personal responsibility plan are automatically eligible for care relief program benefits. This integration ensures comprehensive support for families working towards self-sufficiency.
Transitional Support for Former Families First Participants: Families transitioning off the Families First program can receive transitional care relief program assistance for up to 18 months after their case closure. This crucial bridge ensures continued support as families establish independence, provided that each parent works an average of 30 hours or more per week.
Non-Parental Guardians in Families First: Non-parental guardians involved in the Families First program who need child care for a related child are also eligible for the care relief program. Similar to parents, guardians must be engaged in an average of 30 or more hours of work, training, or education per week to qualify.

Applying for the Care Relief Program: A Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for the Care Relief Program is designed to be as accessible as possible. Tennessee offers both online and paper-based application methods to accommodate different preferences and circumstances.

Online Application:

The most convenient way to apply for the care relief program is through the One DHS Customer Portal. This online platform allows you to submit your application electronically and manage your case efficiently.

Apply Online through the One DHS Customer Portal by clicking here.

Paper Application:

If you prefer a paper application, you can download the necessary forms and submit them via fax, mail, or in person at your local TDHS office. Links to the application forms in English, Spanish, Arabic, and Somali are provided below, along with instructions in each language:

Important Note: Ensure you submit all required verification documents with your application, regardless of whether you apply online or via paper. Incomplete applications cannot be processed until all necessary documentation is provided.

Essential Documents for Your Care Relief Program Application

To successfully process your application for the care relief program, you will need to provide certain documents to verify your identity, residency, citizenship (for children), relationship, income, and school enrollment (if applicable). Gathering these documents beforehand will streamline your application process.

Required Documents May Include:

Valid ID (for each parent/guardian): Driver’s License, State Issued ID, Voter’s Registration Card (Tennessee), I-94 Card, or Passport.
Verification of Current Residence (in parent/guardian’s name): Rent/lease agreement, Mortgage receipt, or Utility bill.
Verification of Citizenship (for each child needing care): U.S. Passport, Certificate of U.S. Citizenship (DHS Forms N-560 or N-561), Birth certificate, Hospital, clinic, or doctor records, or Report or Certificate of Birth Abroad of a U.S. Citizen.
Verification of Relationship (if applicable): Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate, Court Orders for spouse/partner/other parent, sibling, or other children who may receive assistance due to custody or birth.
Income Verification (for each parent/guardian): Check stubs for the most recent eight (8) weeks, Employer statement on company letterhead, Federal 1040 (for self-employment), Award Letters, Self-Employment Reporting and Verification Form HS-3177, Child Care Certificate Program Verification of Employment Form hs-3550 , or Child Support Verification.
Verification of School/College Attendance/Enrollment (for parents/guardians): Current class schedule per semester/quarter verifying registration and attendance.
Additional Verification: Be prepared to provide any other documentation requested by the TDHS to determine your eligibility for the care relief program.

Special Consideration for Families First Recipients: If you are currently receiving Families First benefits, you may already be eligible for the care relief program. Contact your assigned Client Service Representative for detailed information and guidance.

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Finding the Right Child Care Provider Under the Care Relief Program

Once you are approved for the care relief program, the next step is to find a suitable child care provider. Tennessee provides a user-friendly online tool to assist you in this search.

Utilizing the Find Child Care Tool:

The Find Child Care portal allows you to search for child care providers based on your address, specific provider names, or by county. A crucial feature for care relief program participants is the ability to filter providers who “Accept Child Care Assistance Program,” ensuring you find options that work with your benefits.

Understanding Your Co-Pay Responsibilities

While the care relief program significantly reduces child care costs, families are typically required to contribute a co-payment. The exact amount you will need to pay is determined based on your income and the number of children in care.

Co-Pay Calculation and Importance of Timely Payments:

The co-pay chart provides an estimate of your potential payment based on your income bracket and family size. You will receive your confirmed co-pay amount upon qualification. It is essential to pay your co-pay amount consistently and on time. Failure to do so may result in your child care provider terminating your child’s enrollment in their program.

Transferring Child Care Providers within the Care Relief Program

Life circumstances can change, and you may need to transfer your child to a different care provider. The care relief program facilitates this process.

Simple Transfer Process via One DHS Portal:

For Child Care Center transfers, you can conveniently submit a request through your One DHS Customer Portal account. Navigate to your ‘Benefits Dashboard,’ locate the ‘My Cases’ section, and select ‘Change Provider’ to access and complete the transfer form.

Guidance for Families First Recipients: If you are a Families First recipient, please contact your assigned Client Service Representative for assistance with transfer requests, as specific procedures may apply.

Additional Resources for Parents Utilizing Care Relief Programs

Beyond financial assistance, Tennessee offers a wealth of resources to support parents in making informed child care decisions and promoting their children’s well-being.

Exploring Further Support:

The Resources for Parents page provides valuable information on choosing the right child care, understanding different provider types, and how the state assesses child care quality. You can also find resources on the importance of regular checkups and developmental screenings for children.

For infant safety, the Safe Sleep for Babies page offers crucial tips to ensure a safe sleep environment.

Furthermore, if you are benefiting from the care relief program, you might be eligible for other assistance programs to address various family needs. Explore these programs to discover additional support avenues.

Questions About Your Care Relief Program Benefits?

Should you have any questions or require clarification regarding your care relief program benefits, the One DHS Contact Center is readily available to assist you.

Contacting the One DHS Help Center:

Reach out to the One DHS Contact Center at 1-833-772-TDHS (8347) or submit your inquiries via the One DHS General Inquiry webform, accessible by clicking here.

Share Your Care Relief Program Experience

Your feedback is valuable in improving the care relief program and ensuring it effectively serves families in Tennessee.

Participate in the Customer Survey:

Take a moment to share your experience applying for child care payment assistance by completing the customer service survey: Customer Survey.

By understanding and utilizing the Care Relief Program, families in Tennessee can access crucial financial support for child care, fostering both child development and parental economic stability.