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Tennessee

These resources – like the public health crisis itself – are constantly evolving and are only current as to the date of publication. This page was last updated on June 9, 2020.

For more up-to-date information on the relief programs available in Tennessee, we recommend that you visit the state's COVID-19 Resource website

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Description of Program and Relief

Smart Steps Child Care Payment Assistance

The Smart Steps child care payment assistance program provides funding for childcare costs for low to moderate income families in Tennessee. Although there is no specific guidance related to COVID-19, families may be eligible if they meet general income and eligibility requirements.

Government or Lead Agency

Tennessee Department of Human Services

Dates Available

Effective immediately.

Eligibility Requirements/Restrictions

Parents applying for the Smart Steps program must have household gross income below the 85th percentile of State Median Income. Applicants may access the income guidelines table to see if their family income meets the Smart Steps requirements by clicking here. Meeting the income requirements does not guarantee that an applicant will be eligible for the program, but can help applicants assess whether their income is within the program’s limits. Applicants must also be employed no less than 30 hours per week, or enrolled and attending a post-secondary education program full-time, or a combination of both. High school or middle school mothers who are still in school and participate in the state’s Teen Parent program and parents or non-parental guardians participating in the Families First program may also be eligible. Applicant’s child must be between the ages six (6) weeks old through five (5) years old.

Application Deadlines (If Applicable)

N/A

Contact for More Information

Please call 1 (615) 313-4820 or 1(800) 462-8261.

List of Additional Information

For more information or to apply, please click here.


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