We want you to have time to take care of yourself too!

Respite Support Services:

Here’s a clear explanation of the application process for the Respite Voucher Program offered by the Tennessee Caregiver Coalition (via tncaregiver.org) based on the official program page:

🧑‍🦽 What the Program Is

The Respite Voucher Program provides reimbursement (up to $600 per household per year) for respite services that give family caregivers a break from 24/7 caregiving responsibilities. You must live with the person you care for to qualify. TN Caregiver

📝 Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Read Program Requirements

Before applying, review eligibility and rules:

  • You must be a full-time family caregiver living in the same home as the care recipient. TN Caregiver

  • The program reimburses you after you pay for approved respite services — it does not provide direct care. TN Caregiver

  • Eligible uses include paying sitters, adult day centers, camps, tutoring, etc., as long as the care recipient is being cared for by someone else during that time. TN Caregiver

  • There are no income, insurance, or other limits to enroll. TN Caregiver

2. Prepare Required Documents

You’ll need:

  • Proof of Diagnosis for the care recipient (dated within the last 3 years). This can be from a doctor, healthcare provider letter, or medical record printout — showing the name, date of birth, and diagnosis. TN Caregiver

Keep this ready before you apply.

3. Submit the Online Application

  • Go to the application link on the program page and complete the online form to enroll. TN Caregiver

  • Link is labeled “Enroll Now” and directs to the official enrollment portal. TN Caregiver

Once submitted, the program staff will review your information.

4. Set Up Direct Deposit (for Reimbursement)

  • Because reimbursements are now made via direct deposit, you’ll need to:

    • Complete and return a direct deposit form

    • Provide a voided check or bank details. TN Caregiver

This lets the program send reimbursements directly to your bank account.

5. Use Respite Services

  • Pay for approved respite services upfront.

  • Submit the voucher claim (and any receipts) through the system.

  • Payments are usually processed and reimbursed the following month after voucher submission. TN Caregiver

If the care recipient goes to a facility (like a day camp or center), the TCC can sometimes pay the facility directly — just ask and provide an invoice. TN Caregiver

6. Reapply Each Year

  • Funding is tied to fiscal years, so you may need to reapply yearly depending on when your funds are used. TN Caregiver

The program will also notify you before the fiscal year ends if you have remaining funds. TN Caregiver

Checklist for Applying for the Respite Voucher Program:

✅ Respite Voucher Program – Application Checklist

🔹 Before You Apply

  • ☐ I am a full-time family caregiver

  • ☐ I live in the same household as the person I care for

  • ☐ The care recipient has a documented diagnosis

  • ☐ I understand this program reimburses expenses (I pay first)

📄 Required Documents

  • ☐ Proof of diagnosis for care recipient

    • Dated within the last 3 years

    • Shows:

      • ☐ Care recipient’s name

      • ☐ Date of birth

      • ☐ Diagnosis

  • ☐ Digital copy ready to upload (PDF or photo)

🖥️ Application Submission

  • ☐ Go to tncaregiver.org → Respite Voucher Program

  • ☐ Click “Enroll Now”

  • ☐ Complete the online enrollment form

  • ☐ Upload proof of diagnosis

  • ☐ Submit application

💳 Direct Deposit Setup (Required for Reimbursement)

  • ☐ Complete Direct Deposit Authorization Form

  • ☐ Provide:

    • ☐ Voided check *