Tennessee Benefits
Families First (TANF)
Tennessee's Families First program is the state's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) initiative, designed to support families in financial need while prioritizing self-sufficiency. Families First aids parents and guardians in securing and retaining employment by offering not only financial assistance, but also job training and educational opportunities. The program underscores the belief that employment is the most effective pathway to independence.
Financial Aid
In Tennessee, financial aid is provided to low-income households, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. This aid includes support for housing, child care, utility assistance, and more.
Food Stamps (SNAP)
Tennessee Food Stamps program assists financially troubled families, children, elderly, disabled, and unemployed persons with nutritional assistance benefits. The program makes it easy to access these benefits through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT). Eligible individuals and families can apply by visiting their local DHS office.
LIHEAP
Tennessee Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program for low-income families that find it difficult to pay their utility bills.
Medicaid
Tennessee Medicaid, known as TennCare, offers various health insurance benefits to needy individuals with low-income. This program is funded by federal and state resources.
SSDI
Residents of Tennessee who satisfy the defined eligibility criteria can claim Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. These benefits are available to individuals who are unable to work because of a disability.
TEFAP
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) in Tennessee, backed by USDA funding, provides emergency food assistance to those facing food insecurity. Working with local distribution centers, the program ensures that nutritious USDA foods reach those in need, supporting Tennessee residents by improving their dietary options.
TennCare (Medicaid)
Tennessee residents can receive comprehensive medical cover through state's Medicaid program i.e. TennCare Medicaid. The program provides medical coverage to low-income families with no medical insurance or having inadequate medical insurance. The federal government and state funds the program through an established law (in 1965).
Unemployment
The Tennessee Unemployment Insurance (UI) program provides financial assistance for unemployed workers who have lost their job through no fault of their own. This program is a federal program administered by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development in Tennessee. The benefits are only a partial wage replacement and temporary in nature. These benefits are available only for as long as the claimant doesn't find work again. The program is funded by the tax money paid by the employers. Claimant don't contribute to the funding of UI program. You can apply for UI benefits in Tennessee using the online application. Alternatively, you can apply via telephone service. Your eligibility for UI program and amount of benefits you qualify to receive is determined after you apply for benefits.
Veterans Disability
In Tennessee, Veterans Disability benefits are available to veterans who sustained injuries or developed a medical condition during their active military duty. We owe it to veterans in honor of their courageous service and sacrifices. In addition to disability benefits, Tennessee veterans are entitled to education and training programs, comprehensive healthcare services, VA burial benefits, and much more.
WAP
Tennessee Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provides weatherization services to low-income households who are struggling with high cost of energy due to lack of energy efficiency measures. Households will receive these services free of charge.
WIC
Tennessee WIC program provides nutritious food, nutritious education, and referral to support services to women, infants, and children living in state of Tennessee. This special supplemental nutrition program provides special support services for pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women.