EBT Guides
Apr 10, 2025
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential food assistance to low-income individuals and families in Tennessee, helping them access nutritious meals and alleviate food insecurity.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Tennessee
Income limits and benefit amounts for SNAP in Tennessee are determined based on the household size and gross monthly income. These limits ensure that assistance is provided to those who need it most. Below is a detailed breakdown:
Household Size: 1 person
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,383
Maximum Benefit Amount: $250
Household Size: 2 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,868
Maximum Benefit Amount: $459
Household Size: 3 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,353
Maximum Benefit Amount: $658
Household Size: 4 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,839
Maximum Benefit Amount: $835
Household Size: 5 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,324
Maximum Benefit Amount: $992
Household Size: 6 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,809
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,190
Household Size: 7 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,295
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,316
Household Size: 8 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,780
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,504
For households with more than 8 people, add $486 to the gross monthly income limit and $188 to the maximum benefit amount for each additional person. For the most current information, please visit the official Tennessee SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Tennessee
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Tennessee, applicants must meet several eligibility criteria:
Income Limits: Applicants must meet both gross and net income limits based on household size.
Residency Requirements: Applicants must reside in Tennessee.
Citizenship Status: U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens can qualify.
Work Requirements: Certain work-related conditions must be met.
Special Conditions: Special considerations are given to seniors, disabled individuals, and students.
For detailed and up-to-date information, please visit the official Tennessee SNAP website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Tennessee
Applying for SNAP benefits in Tennessee can be done online, in-person, or by mail. Each method ensures accessibility and convenience for all applicants seeking assistance.
Applying Online
To apply for SNAP benefits online as a Tennessee resident, follow these steps:
Visit the official SNAP application website: Go to the Tennessee DHS Family Assistance Online Application.
Create an account or log in: Register for a new account or log in if you already have one.
Complete the application form: Fill out the online application form with your household and income details.
Submit required documents electronically: Upload necessary documents such as proof of income and identification.
Review and submit your application: Double-check all entered information and submit your application for processing.
Applying In-Person
To apply for SNAP benefits in-person, follow these steps:
Locate your nearest SNAP office: Find the closest Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) office using their office locator tool.
Gather necessary documents: Collect essential documents such as identification, proof of income, and residency verification.
Visit the office during business hours: Go to the DHS office during their operating hours, typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Complete the application form: Fill out the SNAP application form provided at the office with your household details.
Submit your application to a caseworker: Hand your completed application and documents to a caseworker for review and processing.
For more information, you can contact the Tennessee Department of Human Services at (615) 313-4700 or visit their official website.
Applying by Mail
To apply for SNAP benefits in Tennessee by mail, follow these steps:
Download and print the SNAP application form: Obtain the form from the official Tennessee SNAP website.
Fill out the form: Complete the application with your household and income details.
Photocopy necessary documents: Make copies of essential documents like identification and proof of income.
Mail the application and documents: Send your completed application and photocopies to the address provided on the form.
Wait for confirmation or further instructions: The Tennessee Department of Human Services will contact you regarding your application status.
Special SNAP Services in Tennessee
In Tennessee, residents may qualify for special SNAP services such as expedited benefits for urgent needs, disaster assistance, and support for homeless individuals. Learn more at the official Tennessee SNAP website.
Expedited SNAP Services in Tennessee
Residents of Tennessee facing emergency situations can receive expedited SNAP benefits to address urgent food needs. To qualify for expedited services, applicants must meet specific criteria. These include having extremely low income, limited resources, or an urgent need for food assistance. For instance, households with less than $150 in monthly gross income and less than $100 in liquid resources may qualify.
Additionally, if a household's combined monthly income and liquid resources are less than their monthly rent or mortgage and utility costs, they may also be eligible for expedited benefits. The goal is to ensure that those in immediate need receive assistance as quickly as possible, typically within seven days of application.
Disaster Assistance for SNAP Beneficiaries
If you are a Tennessee resident affected by disasters such as fires or power outages, you may qualify for replacement SNAP benefits. This assistance is available to current SNAP beneficiaries who have lost food due to these emergencies.
To apply, you need to contact your local Department of Human Services (DHS) office. Even if you are not currently receiving SNAP benefits, you can still apply for disaster assistance. Be prepared to provide details about the disaster and how it impacted your food supply.
Required documents may include identification, proof of residence, and a statement detailing the disaster's impact on your food. Ensure all information is accurate to expedite the processing of your request.
SNAP for Seniors and People with Disabilities
SNAP in Tennessee provides tailored support for older adults (60+) and individuals with disabilities, ensuring they receive the assistance they need. These groups often have simplified application options, making the process more accessible and less cumbersome.
Eligibility criteria for seniors and disabled individuals may differ slightly, often allowing for higher income limits and more lenient asset tests. This ensures that those with fixed incomes or additional financial burdens can still qualify for benefits.
Common deductions for these groups include out-of-pocket medical expenses, which can significantly reduce their countable income. This adjustment helps maximize the benefits they receive, addressing their unique financial challenges.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Tennessee
Once approved for SNAP benefits, it's important to understand how to use them effectively, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards are used by SNAP recipients to access their benefits. Similar to a credit or debit card, an EBT card is swiped at the point of sale, and the purchase amount is deducted from the card's balance. These cards can be used at authorized retailers to buy eligible food items, making it a convenient and efficient way for beneficiaries to manage their SNAP funds.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Recipients in Tennessee can use their EBT cards to purchase a variety of eligible food items, ensuring they have access to nutritious options. These items include:
Fruits and vegetables
Dairy products
Bread and cereals
Meat, poultry, and fish
Non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food for the household
However, there are restrictions on what can be purchased with EBT benefits. Ineligible items include:
Alcoholic beverages
Hot foods and foods meant to be eaten in the store
Vitamins and supplements
Non-food products such as cleaning supplies, paper products, and pet foods
Personal care items like soap and toothpaste
Download Benny for Free and Earn Cash Back on EBT
With Benny, you can earn cash back on groceries from stores like Target, Walmart, and Dollar Tree, as well as services such as Uber and Lyft. Download Benny for free. Connect your EBT card and earn cashback as you shop.
Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?
In Tennessee, EBT cards can be used at a variety of locations to purchase eligible food items. Recipients can shop at grocery stores, corner stores, and farmers' markets, ensuring access to fresh and nutritious options. Additionally, some online retailers like Amazon and Walmart accept EBT for eligible purchases, providing further convenience.
When using the EBT card, simply swipe it at the point of sale and enter your PIN to complete the transaction. This flexibility allows beneficiaries to manage their SNAP funds efficiently and conveniently.
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your SNAP benefits is crucial to ensure you maximize your food budget, avoid running out of funds, and maintain eligibility. Here's how to check your EBT balance, understand deposit schedules, and renew benefits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Tennessee
In Tennessee, SNAP benefits are typically deposited onto EBT cards based on the last two digits of the case number. This system ensures a staggered distribution, helping to manage the flow of funds and avoid system overloads. Here’s a quick breakdown:
00-04: Benefits deposited on the 1st of the month
05-09: Benefits deposited on the 2nd of the month
10-14: Benefits deposited on the 3rd of the month
15-19: Benefits deposited on the 4th of the month
20-24: Benefits deposited on the 5th of the month
25-29: Benefits deposited on the 6th of the month
30-34: Benefits deposited on the 7th of the month
35-39: Benefits deposited on the 8th of the month
40-44: Benefits deposited on the 9th of the month
45-49: Benefits deposited on the 10th of the month
50-54: Benefits deposited on the 11th of the month
55-59: Benefits deposited on the 12th of the month
60-64: Benefits deposited on the 13th of the month
65-69: Benefits deposited on the 14th of the month
70-74: Benefits deposited on the 15th of the month
75-79: Benefits deposited on the 16th of the month
80-84: Benefits deposited on the 17th of the month
85-89: Benefits deposited on the 18th of the month
90-94: Benefits deposited on the 19th of the month
95-99: Benefits deposited on the 20th of the month
Understanding the deposit schedule is crucial for managing your SNAP benefits effectively, ensuring you can plan your grocery shopping and budget accordingly.
For more details, check out our guide on EBT deposit schedule in Tennessee to learn about common reasons for delays and other helpful tips.
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
There are several methods available for checking your EBT balance in Tennessee. Here are the most convenient options:
Online Portal: Visit the ConnectEBT website and log in to view your balance and transaction history.
Benny App: Download Benny, link your EBT card, and check your balance and transactions in real time.
Phone Number: Call the customer service number on the back of your EBT card and follow the prompts to check your balance.
ATM Receipt: Insert your EBT card into an ATM, select "Balance Inquiry," and your balance will be printed on the receipt.
For additional information on each method for checking your EBT balance, check our guide on EBT Balance Check in Tennessee.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Tennessee, SNAP recipients typically need to renew or recertify their benefits every 6 to 12 months, depending on their specific circumstances. Required documents include proof of income, residency, and any changes in household size or expenses.
To complete the recertification, recipients must fill out the renewal form, submit the necessary documents, and attend an interview if required. Timely recertification is important to ensure continuous access to benefits. For more details, visit the official Tennessee SNAP website.
EBT Customer Support in Tennessee
For SNAP and EBT customer support in Tennessee, assistance is available to address any issues or questions you may have. Check out our guide on EBT customer service in Tennessee to find contact details, support options, and solutions to common issues.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Tennessee
EBT Customer Service Phone Number: Call 1-888-997-9444 for assistance.
Hours of Operation: Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Services Offered:
Reporting lost or stolen EBT cards
Resetting PINs
Checking EBT card balances
Assistance with transaction issues
General inquiries about EBT benefits
Local SNAP Office Locations and Contact Info
Finding your nearest SNAP or DHS office in Tennessee is straightforward and can be done using several methods. The most convenient way is to use the online office locator tool provided by the Tennessee Department of Human Services. This tool allows you to search for offices based on your location, ensuring you find the closest one.
Alternatively, you can call the DHS customer service line at (615) 313-4700 for assistance in locating an office or to book an appointment. Here are the steps to find your nearest office:
Visit the online office locator tool: Go to the official website.
Enter your location details: Input your address or ZIP code to find the nearest office.
Review the search results: Check the list of nearby offices, including their addresses and contact information.
Call customer service: Dial (615) 313-4700 for further assistance or to book an appointment.
Multi-Langual Support
In Tennessee, SNAP application materials and assistance are available in multiple languages to support non-English speakers. This ensures that all residents can access the benefits they need. The most common languages in which assistance is available include:
Spanish
Arabic
Vietnamese
Kurdish
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits in Tennessee is easier with Benny. This app lets you check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, ensuring you stay on top of your benefits. Plus, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven.
Discover how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits more effectively. Learn more about Benny today.
Frequently Asked Questions about SNAP in Tennessee
Who qualifies for SNAP benefits in Tennessee?
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Tennessee, you must meet income limits based on household size, be a resident of Tennessee, and be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. Additionally, you must comply with work requirements unless you are exempt due to age, disability, or other special conditions.
Can college students apply for SNAP?
Yes, college students can apply for SNAP in Tennessee if they meet certain conditions. These include working at least 20 hours per week, participating in a state or federally funded work-study program, or caring for a dependent under 6 years old. Students with disabilities or those enrolled in specific programs may also qualify.
Can I get SNAP benefits if I’m an immigrant?
Some immigrants may qualify for SNAP benefits depending on their immigration status. Eligible non-citizens include those with legal permanent residency, refugees, and asylees. Specific criteria must be met to receive benefits. Check the USDA's official guidelines for detailed information on eligibility requirements for non-citizens.
How often do I need to renew my SNAP benefits?
SNAP recipients in Tennessee typically need to renew their benefits every 6 to 12 months. The exact renewal period depends on individual circumstances, such as household size and income. To keep receiving benefits, it's important to complete the renewal process on time, which includes submitting required documents and possibly attending an interview.
