Menu

Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Tennessee

Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel

Tennessee Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers: Medicaid, CHIP & More [2025]

Last updated: September 2025


This is a no‑fluff, action‑first guide to getting healthcare coverage and care in Tennessee as a single mom. Every number and policy below comes from official state or federal sources we link to directly.

Quick Help Box

  • Call TennCare Connect to apply, renew or ask questions: 855‑259‑0701 (Mon–Fri, 7am–6pm CT). Free language help available. TennCare Contact & Portal (apply online at TennCare Connect). (tn.gov)
  • Pregnant? You can get temporary TennCare right away and 12 months of postpartum coverage after your pregnancy ends. Income limit for pregnant women is up to 250% FPL (see table below). TennCare: Pregnant. (tn.gov)
  • Children: Medicaid (TennCare) covers kids at lower incomes; CoverKids (CHIP) covers kids and pregnant women up to 250% FPL if not eligible for TennCare. CoverKids Eligibility. (tn.gov)
  • New diaper benefit: Up to 100 diapers/month for TennCare and CoverKids members under age 2. Pick up at participating pharmacies. Pharmacy/diaper line: 888‑816‑1680. TennCare Diaper Benefit. (tn.gov)
  • Free rides to covered medical appointments (NEMT). Schedule at least 72 hours ahead: BlueCare/Select via Verida 855‑735‑4660; UnitedHealthcare via Tennessee Carriers 866‑405‑0238; Wellpoint via Tennessee Carriers 866‑680‑0633. TennCare Transportation. (tn.gov)
  • Dental: Adult TennCare dental is covered at no cost (medically necessary). Dental manager DentaQuest 855‑418‑1622. TennCare Dental. (tn.gov)
  • Mental health crisis: Call 988 or Tennessee’s Statewide Crisis Line 855‑274‑7471 (855‑CRISIS‑1). TN Crisis Services. (tn.gov)
  • Breastfeeding help 24/7: TN Breastfeeding Hotline. Hotline & resources. (tn.gov)

Why this guide is different (what others miss)

  • Up‑to‑date 2025 income limits and monthly dollar amounts from the state’s March 2025 Eligibility Reference Guide.
  • Direct phone numbers (not just “call your local office”) for applications, rides, dental, diapers, appeals, and crises.
  • Real timelines (45‑day decision standard, appeal windows, urgent ride rules) with links.
  • New benefits added in 2024–2025 (diaper program; adult dental) and state‑specific pregnancy rules (12‑month postpartum).
  • Plan B options after every section (free/low‑cost clinics, CoverRx, Marketplace dates).
  • Common mistakes that actually cause denials in TN—and how to avoid them.

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (what to do first)

Situation Do this first Where/how Typical timeline
You’re pregnant and under the income limit Apply for Temporary TennCare (Presumptive Eligibility) Walk into your county health department or apply via TennCare Connect; call 855‑259‑0701 Same day temporary coverage; full decision usually within standard Medicaid timelines. (tn.gov)
Your child needs coverage Apply for TennCare Kids (Medicaid). If over income for TennCare, apply for CoverKids (CHIP) up to 250% FPL TennCare Connect online/phone or DHS office; CoverKids uses same portal/phone State standard is decision within 45 days; faster if complete documents. (tn.gov)
You lost coverage or never had it Create a TennCare Connect account and apply; report any changes within 10 days Online or 855‑259‑0701 45 days to decision; appeal “delay” if no decision after 45 days. (tn.gov)
You were denied or services were cut File an eligibility appeal or medical appeal Eligibility: TennCare Connect/phone; Medical: 800‑878‑3192 Eligibility delay hearing if >45 days; medical appeal usually within 90 days, expedited ~1 week if urgent. (tn.gov)
You can’t get to appointments Schedule NEMT 72 hours ahead See NEMT numbers above Urgent trips can be scheduled if provider confirms urgency. (tn.gov)

2025 income limits at a glance (TennCare & CoverKids)

The table below uses Tennessee’s official March 2025 Eligibility Reference Guide (not old 2024 figures) and the 2025 HHS poverty guidelines. Amounts shown are the state’s own monthly/yearly numbers. (tn.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)

Category Percent of FPL Household size Monthly income limit Yearly income limit
Pregnant (TennCare) 250% 2 $4,407 $52,875
3 $5,553 $66,625
4 $6,698 $80,375
Children 0–1 (TennCare) 195% 1 $2,544 $30,518
2 $3,437 $41,243
Children 1–5 (TennCare) 142% 2 $2,503 $30,033
4 $3,805 $45,653
Children 6–18 (TennCare) 133% 2 $2,345 $28,130
4 $3,564 $42,760
Parents/Caretaker Relatives (TennCare) 100% 3 $2,221 $26,650
4 $2,680 $32,150
CoverKids (CHIP) Children & Pregnant (if not eligible for TennCare) 250% 2 $4,407 $52,875
4 $6,698 $80,375

Sources: TennCare Eligibility Reference Guide (Mar 2025) and HHS 2025 Poverty Guidelines. (tn.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)

Reality check:

  • Tennessee has not expanded Medicaid to all low‑income adults. If you’re a single mom without a minor child in your home, you likely won’t qualify for TennCare unless you’re pregnant, disabled, or in another specific category. Use Marketplace coverage (see below) or see Plan B options.

How to apply (TennCare and CoverKids)

Start here (don’t wait for a clinic visit):

Processing timeline and appeals

  • Standard Medicaid/CoverKids decision: Within 45 days of a complete application. If it’s been over 45 days, you can request a “delayed application appeal.” TennCare Eligibility Appeals. (tn.gov)
  • Medical appeals (denial/delay of services): Call 800‑878‑3192. Most are decided within 90 days; expedited cases are typically decided in about a week. TennCare Medical Appeals. (tn.gov)

Application checklist (documents to gather)

Use this list before you start the online application or call. It reflects what TennCare asks for to speed up decisions. TennCare “What to Know When You Are Applying”. (tn.gov)

Item Examples that work
IDs and SSNs Driver’s license or other ID; SSNs for everyone applying (if eligible to have one)
Household info Full names, dates of birth, who lives with you, who you support
Income Recent pay stubs, employer letter, unemployment or child support records
Pregnancy Doctor’s note or confirm at county health department (for presumptive coverage)
Immigration/citizenship If applicable; not required for CoverKids when you’re pregnant
Other coverage Any other insurance information
Contact info Current address, phone, email

Common mistakes to avoid

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • Get in‑person help at a DHS office (see office locator above) or call 855‑259‑0701 again and ask for help uploading documents.
  • Check if you qualify for the Children’s Special Services (CSS) program for kids with chronic conditions: 615‑532‑3755. TDH Contacts. (tn.gov)
  • If over income for TennCare, check CoverKids (up to 250% FPL) or the ACA Marketplace (see below).

What each program covers (and what it costs)

TennCare (Medicaid)

Costs: Most preventive care (checkups, shots, pregnancy care) has no co‑pay. Some adults in certain categories may have small copays; children’s preventive care is free. See TennCare’s copay page and your plan handbook. TennCare Copayments. (tn.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • If you’re over TennCare income, apply for CoverKids (up to 250% FPL) or the Marketplace with subsidies (see dates below). If you need prescriptions only, see CoverRx.

CoverKids (Tennessee CHIP)

  • Who qualifies: uninsured children under 19 and pregnant women who aren’t eligible for TennCare, up to 250% FPL. No immigration documents are required if you’re pregnant. CoverKids Eligibility. (tn.gov)
  • What it covers: doctor/hospital visits, well‑child care and shots (free), dental and vision for children, prenatal care. CoverKids Program page. (tn.gov)
  • Costs: No monthly premiums; small copays for some services and prescriptions, with a yearly cap of 5% of household income. CoverKids FAQ (copays & 5% cap). (tn.gov)
  • Copay ranges (typical examples in rule): primary care 5–5–15, prescriptions 1–1–40 depending on income tier and drug type; non‑emergency ER copay may apply. See “Copays” on CoverKids site, and Tennessee rule 1200‑13‑21‑.07 for full schedule. Rule text (cost sharing). (casetext.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • If you’re slightly over income, double‑check household size and allowable deductions; the 250% FPL numbers update annually.
  • If your child is denied due to other insurance access, note that “access” alone doesn’t block CoverKids—your child can be eligible even if employer coverage was offered but declined because it’s too expensive (they just can’t be enrolled elsewhere). CoverKids FAQ. (tn.gov)

CoverRx (low‑cost pharmacy for uninsured adults 18–64)

  • Who qualifies: TN residents 18–64, income at or below 138% FPL, no other pharmacy coverage/Medicare. CoverRx Eligibility. (tn.gov)
  • What it covers: 200+ generics plus insulin/diabetes supplies and select mental health meds with low copays: generics 3∗∗(30‑day),∗∗3** (30‑day), **5 (90‑day), brands/insulins $5. Up to five prescriptions/month (some exceptions don’t count toward the cap). CoverRx Benefits. (tn.gov)
  • How to apply: Online at OptumRx or by paper; PBM help line 800‑424‑5815. CoverRx Application. (tn.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • Ask your pharmacist to compare CoverRx pricing with other pharmacy discount cards if a drug isn’t on the list.
  • For kids or pregnant members, prescriptions are usually covered under TennCare/CoverKids.

The numbers behind the limits (2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines)

The 2025 HHS guidelines used by Tennessee list 21,150∗∗fora2‑personhouseholdand∗∗21,150** for a 2‑person household and **32,150 for a 4‑person household at 100% FPL. The state’s Eligibility Reference Guide publishes the monthly and annual amounts for 100% through 250% FPL—including categories used by TennCare and CoverKids. HHS 2025 Guidelines and TN Eligibility Reference Guide (Mar 2025). (aspe.hhs.gov, tn.gov)

Real‑world examples (so you can sanity‑check your situation)

  • Example A: You’re pregnant with one child at home (household of 3). Your gross monthly income is 4,900∗∗.Tennessee’s2504,900**. Tennessee’s 250% FPL monthly limit for a family of 3 is **5,553, so you should qualify for TennCare while pregnant. After delivery, you keep postpartum coverage for 12 months. Pregnant page (limits), postpartum policy, Postpartum expansion. (tn.gov)
  • Example B: Your 7‑year‑old needs coverage, income is 3,700∗∗/monthforafamilyof4.TennCare’s6–18categorymonthlylimitfor4is∗∗3,700**/month for a family of 4. TennCare’s 6–18 category monthly limit for 4 is **3,564 (133% FPL), so your child is just over for TennCare. Apply for CoverKids (up to 250% FPL for kids), which would be under $6,698/month for 4. Reference Guide. (tn.gov)
  • Example C: You’re a single mom with a 3‑year‑old and earn 2,500∗∗/month.Parent/caretakerrelativecategoryfor3is∗∗2,500**/month. Parent/caretaker relative category for 3 is **2,221 (100% FPL), so you’re over for parent coverage. Your child should qualify for TennCare (1–5 limit for 3 is $3,154). For you, check Marketplace plans with subsidies (open enrollment dates below) or see if you qualify for TennCare another way (pregnancy, disability, breast/cervical cancer category). Reference Guide. (tn.gov)

Costs and copays (plain talk)

  • Preventive care (checkups, shots, prenatal visits) is free under TennCare. TennCare Copayments. (tn.gov)
  • CoverKids has no monthly premium. Copays are modest and capped at 5% of your annual income. Typical examples from the state’s rule: 5–5–15 for doctor visits, 1–1–40 for prescriptions depending on income and drug type; non‑emergency ER copay may apply. Check the CoverKids “Copays” page for your exact amounts. CoverKids FAQ (copays/5% cap); Rule 1200‑13‑21‑.07. (tn.gov, casetext.com)

Transportation: getting to your appointments

  • Schedule rides at least 72 hours before the visit. If you didn’t know in time, the call center can mark an urgent medical appointment (provider must confirm). Numbers by plan: BlueCare 855‑735‑4660 (Verida), TennCare Select 866‑473‑7565 (Verida), UHC 866‑405‑0238 (Tennessee Carriers), Wellpoint 866‑680‑0633 (Tennessee Carriers). Official NEMT page. (tn.gov)

Tips

  • Book roundtrip. If the return time is unknown, call “Where’s My Ride” from the NEMT numbers after your appointment.
  • Tell them if you need a car seat, wheelchair van, or an escort to ride with you.

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • Ask your health plan about bus passes or mileage reimbursement (some MCOs offer these). Check your plan’s member services: BlueCare 800‑565‑9140, UHC 800‑690‑1606, Wellpoint 833‑731‑2153, TennCare Select 800‑276‑1978 (from TennCare MCO contacts). TennCare Health Plan Contacts (Health Plans section). (tn.gov)

New and overlooked benefits to use

  • Diaper pharmacy benefit: up to 100 diapers/month for children under 2 on TennCare or CoverKids; show the pharmacy card at a participating pharmacy; no prescription, no copay. Questions: 888‑816‑1680. Diaper Benefit page. (tn.gov)
  • Adult dental: covered at no cost starting Jan 1, 2023; call DentaQuest 855‑418‑1622 to find a dentist. Dental Services. (tn.gov)
  • TennCare Kids (EPSDT): free well‑child checkups, dental, behavioral health up to age 21. TennCare Kids. (tn.gov)

Marketplace coverage (if you’re over income for TennCare/CoverKids)

  • Open Enrollment for 2026 coverage (Healthcare.gov states like Tennessee): Nov 1, 2025 – Jan 15, 2026. HealthCare.gov dates. (healthcare.gov)
  • Outside those dates, you need a qualifying life event (loss of coverage, move, birth). Apply and see if you qualify for subsidies.

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • Use HRSA Health Center finder to book sliding‑fee care while you sort out coverage: Find a Health Center.

If you have a serious diagnosis or special circumstances

  • Breast or Cervical Cancer category: If you’re under 65 and screened through the TN Breast & Cervical Screening Program (TBCSP) and need treatment, you may qualify for TennCare at up to 250% FPL. Presumptive eligibility is available through county health departments. TBCSP Overview and Presumptive Eligibility criteria. (tn.gov)
  • Katie Beckett Program (children with significant disabilities/medical needs who don’t qualify due to parent income): Apply through TennCare Connect; DDA regional help lines—West 866‑372‑5709, Middle 800‑654‑4839, East 888‑531‑9876. Katie Beckett Program. (tn.gov)

Mental health, postpartum, and crisis supports

  • 24/7 Statewide Crisis Line: 855‑274‑7471 (855‑CRISIS‑1); call or text 988 for immediate help. TN Crisis Services. (tn.gov)
  • National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262) — free, confidential, 24/7. HRSA Hotline FAQ. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
  • If you feel your health plan is not providing required behavioral health services, call the TennCare Advocacy Program 800‑758‑1638. TennCare Contact page. (tn.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

Local clinics and charities that actually see patients (low‑ or no‑cost)

Use the Tennessee Charitable Care Network (TCCN) “Find Care” tool for a statewide map of free and charitable clinics. Selected options below illustrate real sites with working numbers. TCCN Find Care. (tccnetwork.org)

More options: Tennessee’s Community Health Centers (FQHCs) provide sliding‑fee primary care, dental and behavioral health; find one near you at the TN Primary Care Association or the federal HRSA locator. (tnpca.org)

Quick tables you can screenshot

Table: Who qualifies for what (fast view)

Program Who it’s for Income limit (monthly) What it covers How to apply
TennCare – Pregnant You’re pregnant and live in TN Up to 250% FPL (e.g., family of 3: $5,553) Medical, hospital, pharmacy, dental (adult), 12‑mo postpartum TennCare Connect / county health dept. (tn.gov)
TennCare – Kids Kids 0‑18 by age band Varies (0–1 up to 195% FPL; 1–5 up to 142%; 6–18 up to 133%) Full Medicaid for kids incl. dental & BH TennCare Connect (tn.gov)
CoverKids (CHIP) Uninsured kids & pregnant (not eligible for TennCare) Up to 250% FPL Most services, kids’ vision/dental; prenatal TennCare Connect; local health dept help (tn.gov)
CoverRx Uninsured adults 18–64 ≤ 138% FPL 200+ generics, insulin/DM supplies, select MH meds Online or paper via OptumRx (tn.gov)
NEMT Any TennCare member N/A Rides to covered care (schedule ≥72 hrs ahead) Call plan’s NEMT vendor (tn.gov)

Table: Key phone numbers you’ll actually use

Need Number Source
TennCare Connect (apply/renew) 855‑259‑0701 TennCare Contact page (tn.gov)
Eligibility appeals (delay >45 days, denial) 855‑259‑0701 (via TennCare Connect) Appeals page (tn.gov)
Medical appeals 800‑878‑3192 Medical appeals page (tn.gov)
DentaQuest (adult dental) 855‑418‑1622 Dental page (tn.gov)
Diaper program (OptumRx) 888‑816‑1680 Diaper benefit page (tn.gov)
NEMT: BlueCare/Select (Verida) 855‑735‑4660 / 866‑473‑7565 NEMT page (tn.gov)
NEMT: UHC (Tennessee Carriers) 866‑405‑0238 NEMT page (tn.gov)
NEMT: Wellpoint (Tennessee Carriers) 866‑680‑0633 NEMT page (tn.gov)
Statewide Crisis Line 855‑274‑7471 TN DMHSAS crisis page (tn.gov)
Maternal Mental Health Hotline 833‑852‑6262 HRSA (mchb.hrsa.gov)
DHS office help line (in‑person application help) 866‑311‑4287 DHS Office locator (tn.gov)

Table: Common documents to have ready

Topic Documents that speed things up
Income Last 4–6 weeks of pay stubs; award letters; unemployment/child support proof
Identity/SSN Photo ID; SSNs for applicants (if eligible to have one)
Pregnancy Doctor’s note or check‑in at county health dept (for temporary coverage)
Address Lease, utility bill, or letter verifying residence
Other coverage Any current insurance cards/letters

Source: How to Apply for TennCare. (tn.gov)

Table: Timelines at a glance

Action Timeline
Medicaid/CoverKids decision Within 45 days of complete application (file delay appeal if longer) (tn.gov)
Medical appeal decision Usually within 90 days; expedited ~1 week if urgent (tn.gov)
NEMT ride scheduling Call ≥72 hours before appointment; urgent rides possible with provider confirmation (tn.gov)
Postpartum coverage 12 months after pregnancy ends (TennCare) (tn.gov)

Diverse communities: tailored tips and resources

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers and youth: Oasis Center (Nashville) offers 24/7 youth crisis help at 615‑327‑4455 and supportive services. Oasis Center Contact. (oasiscenter.org)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Look at the Katie Beckett Program for kids with complex needs (see numbers above) and TennCare’s Employment & Community First CHOICES for IDD. Start with TennCare Connect and ask for an assessment. Katie Beckett. (tn.gov)
  • Veteran single mothers: VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (Nashville/Murfreesboro) main numbers 615‑327‑4751 / 615‑867‑6000; toll‑free 800‑228‑4973. They coordinate women’s health and mental health care. VA Tennessee Valley Contact. (va.gov)
  • Immigrant and refugee moms: CoverKids doesn’t require immigration documents for pregnant applicants. CoverKids Eligibility. For primary care regardless of status, use HRSA health centers/TPCA clinics. (tn.gov, tnpca.org)
  • Tribal citizens and Native families: The Indian Health Service Nashville Area administers tribal and urban Indian health programs across the region; contact the Nashville Area office (711 Stewarts Ferry Pike, Nashville) for referrals. IHS Nashville Area. (ihs.gov)
  • Rural moms with limited transport: Use NEMT (book early), ask your plan for bus passes or mileage reimbursement, and consider mobile clinics or FQHCs within 30–60 minutes—search HRSA or TPCA sites by ZIP. NEMT, HRSA locator. (tn.gov)
  • Single fathers raising kids and grandparents as caregivers: You may qualify under “parents/caretaker relatives” (100% FPL). See the income table above and apply via TennCare Connect. Eligibility Reference Guide. (tn.gov)
  • Language access: Free interpreter services are available through TennCare Connect and health plans. Call 855‑259‑0701 and ask for language help. TennCare Contacts. (tn.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid (from real cases)

  • Applying without uploading proof and then missing the 10‑day response window on TennCare’s follow‑up letter.
  • Not reporting income or address changes within 10 days (triggers closures or overpayment). CoverKids FAQ. (tn.gov)
  • Assuming a child can’t get CoverKids because employer coverage is “offered.” If it’s too expensive and the child isn’t enrolled elsewhere, CoverKids may still be an option. CoverKids FAQ. (tn.gov)
  • Skipping well‑child and dental visits—those are free under TennCare Kids and missing them can delay referrals you need. TennCare Kids. (tn.gov)

What to do if you’re denied (or nothing is moving)

  • Call TennCare Connect 855‑259‑0701 and say you want to file a delayed application appeal if it’s been over 45 days. Eligibility Appeals. (tn.gov)
  • For service denials/delays, call TennCare Member Medical Appeals 800‑878‑3192 (ask for expedited if delay puts your health at risk). Medical Appeals. (tn.gov)
  • Get help from the independent TennCare Advocacy Program 800‑758‑1638 for issues with healthcare, mental health or SUD treatment. TennCare Contact page. (tn.gov)
  • While you appeal, keep seeing a sliding‑fee clinic (TPCA/TCCN) so your kid’s care doesn’t pause. TCCN Find Care. (tccnetwork.org)

Quick‑scan: Marketplace Open Enrollment dates for Tennessee

Tip: If you lose TennCare/CoverKids mid‑year, you get a Special Enrollment Period. Start your Marketplace application right away to avoid gaps.

FAQs (Tennessee‑specific)

  1. How fast can I get coverage if I’m pregnant?
  • County health departments can grant temporary TennCare (Presumptive Eligibility) the same day while your full application processes. Where to sign up. (tn.gov)
  1. What’s the income limit for a pregnant mom of 3?
  1. Can my child get coverage if we turned down employer insurance?
  • Yes, if they’re not enrolled in another plan and you meet other rules. Access to an offer doesn’t by itself block CoverKids. CoverKids FAQ. (tn.gov)
  1. I missed my ride. Can I get another?
  • Call your NEMT vendor’s “Where’s My Ride” option. For Verida (BlueCare/Select): 866‑473‑7565 (option 3); for Tennessee Carriers (UHC/Wellpoint): use plan‑specific numbers. NEMT page. (tn.gov)
  1. Are adult dental cleanings and fillings really covered?
  • Yes. Adult TennCare members have comprehensive dental (no cost) through DentaQuest. 855‑418‑1622. Dental Services. (tn.gov)
  1. How many diapers can I get and how?
  • Up to 100 diapers/month (or up to 200 every 60 days to accommodate package sizes) at participating pharmacies. Show your child’s pharmacy ID; no prescription needed. Questions: 888‑816‑1680. Diaper Benefit. (tn.gov)
  1. I applied weeks ago and haven’t heard back.
  • If it’s been more than 45 days, call 855‑259‑0701 and ask to file a delayed application appeal. Eligibility Appeals. (tn.gov)
  1. What if my child needs specialty dental or orthodontics?
  • CoverKids covers children’s dental; orthodontics may require 12 months of continuous enrollment and medical necessity. CoverKids FAQ. (tn.gov)
  1. Do I pay copays on CoverKids?
  • No monthly premium; service copays vary by income. Annual out‑of‑pocket is capped at 5% of your income. See the CoverKids Copays page (and your plan’s handbook) for exact amounts. CoverKids FAQ. (tn.gov)
  1. I’m a veteran and a single mom. Can I get VA care and keep my child on TennCare?
  • Yes. VA coverage for you doesn’t affect your child’s TennCare eligibility. VA Tennessee Valley numbers: 615‑327‑4751 (Nashville) / 615‑867‑6000 (Murfreesboro) / 800‑228‑4973 (toll‑free). VA Tennessee Valley. (va.gov)

Resources by region (fast contacts)

  • Memphis/Shelby: Church Health 901‑272‑0003; Baptist Mobile Mammography 901‑226‑0853 (grant‑funded screening info). (tccnetwork.org, baptistonline.org)
  • Nashville/Davidson: Find a CHC via TPCA; Oasis Center 24/7 youth crisis 615‑327‑4455. (tnpca.org, oasiscenter.org)
  • Knoxville/Knox: InterFaith Health Center 865‑546‑7330; Knox Area Project Access 865‑531‑2766. (tccnetwork.org)
  • Sevier: Mountain Hope Good Shepherd Clinic 865‑774‑7684. (tccnetwork.org)
  • Oak Ridge/Roane: Free Medical Clinic 865‑483‑3904. (tccnetwork.org)

Plan B if coverage still isn’t set

  • Prescriptions only? Apply for CoverRx (≤138% FPL) with 3–3–5 copays on generics and $5 for insulins/supplies. CoverRx. (tn.gov)
  • WIC for food and breastfeeding support: income ≤185% FPL; applying is free at your local health department. TN WIC Income Guidelines (2024–25). (tn.gov)
  • Screening for breast/cervical cancer: TBCSP can connect you to free screening and a path to TennCare treatment if needed. TBCSP. (tn.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (print this)

Step Link/Number
Apply/Renew TennCare Connect online or 855‑259‑0701 (tn.gov)
Pregnant now Go to county health dept for presumptive eligibility, then complete TennCare application (tn.gov)
Need a ride NEMT: Verida 855‑735‑4660 / 866‑473‑7565; Tennessee Carriers 866‑405‑0238 / 866‑680‑0633 (tn.gov)
Dental help DentaQuest 855‑418‑1622 (tn.gov)
Diapers OptumRx Diaper Line 888‑816‑1680 (100/month under age 2) (tn.gov)
Appeals Eligibility delays/denials: 855‑259‑0701; Medical appeals: 800‑878‑3192 (tn.gov)
Crisis 988 or 855‑274‑7471 (TN Crisis Line) (tn.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Tennessee Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits. This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

  • Program rules, income limits, copay amounts, and timelines change. Always verify with the agency or plan linked above before making decisions.
  • Health information here is general and not medical advice. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. For a mental health crisis, call or text 988.
  • Security: We only link to official state/federal sites and established nonprofits. Do not share your SSN or private health details with anyone who isn’t your agency/plan contact. Use the official TennCare Connect portal or phone numbers listed above.
  • Data sources dated in this guide: 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines (ASPE, January–March 2025); TennCare Eligibility Reference Guide Version 9.4 (March 2025); TennCare program pages and numbers as cited; HealthCare.gov enrollment dates page current as of 2025. (aspe.hhs.gov, tn.gov, healthcare.gov)

Notes on sources and accuracy

  • Key income figures, categories, and contact numbers come directly from the Tennessee government: TennCare, CoverKids, TDH, DHS, and DMHSAS. Where exact copay schedules are governed by rule, we linked to the current rule text and the CoverKids pages that confirm no premiums and a 5% cap.
  • If any link above doesn’t open on your device, search the exact page name on the tn.gov site shown in the citation. We avoid third‑party summaries unless they point you to the official program.

🏛️More Tennessee Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Tennessee

Related Posts