Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in Tennessee
Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel
Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in Tennessee
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box — Save or screenshot this
- In immediate danger: Call 911. If you cannot speak, try texting 911 where available. Text-to-911 is active in many Tennessee counties but not all. If you text, include your location and the word “help.” Confirm availability with your local 911 district. (tn.gov, bedfordcountypost.com, timesfreepress.com)
- Tennessee Statewide Domestic Violence Helpline: 1-800-356-6767 — 24/7 safety planning and referrals statewide. (tndvhelpline.com)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline (call/text/chat): 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788 — confidential 24/7 help. (thehotline.org, acf.hhs.gov)
- Tennessee Child Abuse Hotline (report abuse): 1-877-237-0004 — 24/7 statewide. Online reporting available for non-emergencies. (tn.gov)
- Safe at Home Address Confidentiality Program (protect your address): enrollment help and FAQs — see link in sections below. (sos.tn.gov)
- Legal help (regional):
- West Tennessee Legal Services 800-372-8346
- Legal Aid Society of Middle TN 800-238-1443
- Legal Aid of East TN (via Knoxville FJC intake) 865-521-6336
- Memphis Area Legal Services 901-523-8822
See “Legal Help by Region” for details. (wtls.org, las.org, fjcknoxville.org, malsi.org)
What this guide does differently
- Concrete Tennessee numbers and deadlines: order‑of‑protection hearings within 15 days, expedited SNAP decisions within 7 days, Families First grant amounts by household size, safe exam coverage, and current victim‑compensation caps. Citations appear after claims so you can verify fast. (law.justia.com, tn.gov)
- Action-first: each section starts with the first step and ends with a Plan B.
- Local reality checks: Memphis’ Family Safety Center closed in March 2025; this guide routes you to active services. (dailymemphian.com, tennesseelookout.com)
Emergency Safety Steps in Tennessee
- Call 911 or text 911 if available: use short messages — “Need police. 123 Oak St. Inside bedroom. Abuser in kitchen.” Voice calls reach help faster; text is for when speaking is unsafe. If you don’t get a reply, try calling. (tn.gov, wbir.com)
- Tell the operator if weapons are present: this affects how officers approach.
- Ask for medical care and evidence photos if injured: later claims and orders are stronger with documentation.
- If you must leave quickly: grab this if you can — IDs, kids’ birth certificates, Social Security cards, EBT card, bank card, car title, keys, restraining order papers, a list of contacts, medicines, and copies of leases or utility bills.
- For your phone: turn off location sharing with the abuser, change passwords, and clear browser history after searching for help.
- Pets: shelters may help you board pets; grants exist to cover pet boarding for survivors. Ask an advocate to apply for a RedRover Safe Escape grant on your behalf. (redrover.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: use a neighbor’s phone or a public library to contact the Tennessee Helpline 1-800-356-6767 or the National Hotline 1-800-799-7233; ask for the nearest shelter or Family Justice Center that can safety‑plan a next step. (tndvhelpline.com, thehotline.org)
Orders of Protection — Fast Tennessee Steps
- Go today to file: General Sessions Court or a Family Justice/Safety Center advocate can help you complete the petition. Forms are free and available in multiple languages from Tennessee’s Administrative Office of the Courts. (tncourts.gov)
- Same-day protection is possible: courts may issue an ex parte (temporary) order immediately if there’s “immediate and present danger.” A full hearing must be held within 15 days of service on the respondent, and service should be at least 5 days before the hearing. If granted, an order typically lasts up to 1 year and can be renewed. There are no filing or service fees for victims. (law.justia.com)
- Lifetime orders exist in specific cases: if the abuser is convicted of certain offenses, you may petition for a Lifetime Order of Protection; official forms are on the AOC site. (tncourts.gov)
- If served, firearm possession is restricted under federal law; ask your advocate or attorney about surrender procedures and safety planning around firearms.
- Bring this to court: any police reports, photos of injuries or property damage, threatening texts, call logs, medical records, and witnesses.
Table — Orders of Protection at a Glance
| Step | Where to go | Timeline | Cost | Help available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| File petition | General Sessions Court or your county Family Justice/Safety Center | Ex parte possible same day; hearing within 15 days after service | $0 for filing, service, and copies | Court clerk and advocates help with forms; interpreters by request |
| After filing | Law enforcement serves respondent | Must be served ≥ 5 days before hearing | $0 | Ask clerk how to check if served |
| Hearing | General Sessions or Circuit Court | On hearing date | $0 | You can bring an advocate or attorney |
| Renewal | Same court | Before the order expires | $0 | Ask clerk for renewal date |
Sources for process and fees. (law.justia.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: visit a Family Justice/Safety Center for hands‑on help — Nashville 615-880-1100; Knoxville 865-521-6336; Chattanooga 423-643-7600; Upper Cumberland (Cookeville) 931-528-1512 or Livingston 931-644-3963. (ofs.nashville.gov, fjcknoxville.org, fjc.chattanooga.gov, ucfamilyjusticecenter.org)
Keep Your Home Address Private — Tennessee Safe at Home
- Enroll in the state’s free Address Confidentiality Program: victims of domestic abuse, stalking, human trafficking, or sexual offenses can get a substitute legal address for driver’s license, school enrollment, utilities, and benefits. Mail sent to the substitute address is forwarded to you. There is no cost to participate. (sos.tn.gov)
- Where you can use it: driver’s license, public school enrollment, voter registration, public utilities, and most other state/local government records. Some real‑property filings are excluded. (sos.tn.gov)
- How to apply: work with a trained application assistant at a partner agency in your county; the Secretary of State lists local partners and answers FAQs. (sos.tn.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your Family Justice/Safety Center advocate to help you locate a partner agency or contact the program directly for guidance. (sos.tn.gov)
Family Justice and Safety Centers — Single‑Stop Hubs
All services are free and confidential. Walk‑ins welcome during business hours. Call first if safety is a concern.
Table — Family Justice/Safety Centers in Tennessee
| Location | Address | Phone | Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville Family Safety Center (Office of Family Safety) | 610 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville | 615-880-1100 | Mon–Fri 9a–6p; 24/7 Order of Protection assistance | Legal aid, OPs, counseling, shelter/housing help. (ofs.nashville.gov) |
| Jean Crowe Advocacy Center (court‑based) | 100 James Robertson Pkwy, Ste 114, Nashville | 615-862-4767 | Mon–Fri 8a–4p | Court support and OP help. (ofs.nashville.gov) |
| Knoxville Family Justice Center | 400 Harriet Tubman St., Knoxville | 865-521-6336 | Mon–Fri 8a–4p | 24/7 DV hotline 865-637-8000; OP help, counseling, shelter referrals. (fjcknoxville.org) |
| Chattanooga Family Justice Center | 5705 Uptain Rd., Chattanooga | 423-643-7600 | Mon–Fri 8:30a–5p | Local crisis line 423-755-2700 via Partnership for Families. (fjc.chattanooga.gov, connect.chattanooga.gov) |
| Upper Cumberland FJC — Putnam | 269 S Willow Ave, Ste E, Cookeville | 931-528-1512 | Mon–Fri 9a–4p | Walk‑ins welcome; Genesis House crisis line 1-800-707-5197. (ucfamilyjusticecenter.org) |
| Upper Cumberland FJC — Overton | 112 S Church St., Livingston | 931-644-3963 | Mon–Fri 9a–4p | Same services as Putnam site. (ucfamilyjusticecenter.org) |
Important Memphis update — The Family Safety Center of Memphis and Shelby County closed in March 2025. For shelter and advocacy in Memphis/Shelby County, contact YWCA Greater Memphis’ 24/7 DV Hotline 901-725-4277 and the County’s Crime Victims & Rape Crisis Center (24/7 sexual assault line 901-222-4350; office 901-222-3950). (dailymemphian.com, tennesseelookout.com, memphisywca.org, shelbycountytn.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: call the statewide helpline 1-800-356-6767 to locate a nearby program or shelter. (tndvhelpline.com)
Money for Immediate Needs — Cash, Food, Victim Compensation
Families First (TANF) cash assistance
- What it is: Tennessee’s TANF program for families with children; cash on an EBT card plus work and support services. No fees to apply. (tn.gov)
- Monthly grant amounts (payment standard):
- 1 person — $244
- 2 people — $343
- 3 people — $387
- 4 people — $438
- 5 people — $471
- 6 people — $502
- Larger households have higher amounts (see official chart). (tn.gov)
- Income limits: Families must pass both a gross income test (example for 3 people 2,866∗∗/month)andanetincometest(examplefor3people∗∗2,866**/month) and a net income test (example for 3 people **1,549/month). Asset limit is $2,000 (some vehicle equity excluded). See the current “Income Standards and Allotments” chart. (tn.gov)
- Domestic violence waivers: if abuse or safety risk prevents you from work activities or appointments, DHS can grant a good‑cause waiver so you don’t get sanctioned. Tell your caseworker about the abuse. (law.cornell.edu)
- Diversion payment option (one‑time cash): If you’re otherwise TANF‑eligible and facing a short‑term crisis (like deposit or car repair), ask about a Diversion grant — a lump sum equal to up to 12 months of your TANF amount. It counts against your lifetime limit but can solve an immediate crisis. (law.justia.com, casetext.com)
- How to apply: online through the One DHS Customer Portal or at your county DHS office; questions to Family Assistance Service Center 1-866-311-4287. (tn.gov)
Table — Families First (TANF) Snapshot
| Household size | Max monthly grant | Gross income limit (GIS) | Net income limit (CNS) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $244 | $1,806 | $976 |
| 2 | $343 | $2,535 | $1,370 |
| 3 | $387 | $2,866 | $1,549 |
| 4 | $438 | $3,241 | $1,752 |
| 5 | $471 | $3,487 | $1,885 |
| 6 | $502 | $3,717 | $2,009 |
Source: Tennessee DHS Families First Income Standards and Allotments (effective 7/1/2021; currently posted by DHS). (tn.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask about a Diversion payment, early re‑entry after a sanction if you’re under threat of domestic violence, and transitional child care so you can work safely. If denied, you can appeal; ask DHS how to file a fair‑hearing request. (law.cornell.edu)
SNAP (Food Stamps)
- Maximum monthly allotments through Sept. 30, 2025 (48 states and DC):
- 1 person $291
- 2 people $535
- 3 people $766
- 4 people $975
- 5 people $1,155
- 6 people 1,386∗∗(Largerhouseholdsincreaseaccordingly;minimumbenefit∗∗1,386** (Larger households increase accordingly; minimum benefit **23.) (fns.usda.gov)
- Expedited SNAP: in emergencies you may qualify for benefits within 7 days. After you apply, DHS aims to contact you within 10 days for the interview; expedited cases should be contacted within 4 days. (tn.gov)
- How to apply: One DHS Customer Portal or your local DHS office; Family Assistance Service Center 1-866-311-4287. (tn.gov)
- Tip for survivors: You can apply without the abuser’s income if you are not purchasing and preparing food together and you’ve left the household; tell DHS about the separation and safety concerns.
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask for “expedited service,” bring any proof you have (ID, rent, utilities, child support order, pay stubs), and request help uploading documents at the office if technology is a barrier. (tn.gov)
Tennessee Criminal Injuries Compensation — Help with costs after a crime
- What it can pay: medical and counseling bills, lost wages, funeral costs, relocation/moving costs linked to the crime, crime‑scene cleanup, and limited pain‑and‑suffering for sexual assault survivors. Do not get billed for sexual assault forensic exams (SAFE program pays providers directly up to $1,000). (treasury.tn.gov)
- Maximum award: 32,900∗∗forcrimesbetween∗∗July1,2024∗∗and∗∗June30,2025∗∗;∗∗32,900** for crimes between **July 1, 2024** and **June 30, 2025**; **34,100 for crimes on or after July 1, 2025 (amount set by law; check the Treasury site for the current cap when you apply). (treasury.tn.gov)
- How to apply: online via the Tennessee Treasury’s Division of Claims and Risk Management; advocates can help complete the application and gather documents. Contact: Criminal.Injury@tn.gov or (833) 867-3891. (treasury.tn.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: talk with a victim advocate at a Family Justice/Safety Center or the Shelby County Crime Victims & Rape Crisis Center (901-222-3950) for application help and appeal options. (shelbycountytn.gov)
Housing and Staying Housed — VAWA Rights, Vouchers, and Leases
- Your federal housing rights under VAWA: if you’re in public housing, Section 8/HCV, or many federally‑subsidized properties, you cannot be denied housing or evicted because of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking. You can request an emergency transfer to a safe unit. Use HUD forms HUD‑5380/5382/5383; ask your PHA/landlord for their emergency transfer plan. (hud.gov, tnpbca.com)
- Section 8/Housing Choice Vouchers: THDA administers HCV in 72 counties; large metros have their own PHAs. Wait times vary and lists open/close. Use THDA’s page to find office contacts and waiting‑list instructions. For emergency needs, talk with an advocate about shelter or rapid rehousing via local providers. (thda.org)
- Ending a lease early for safety: Tennessee law lets a tenant who’s a documented victim of domestic abuse, sexual assault, or stalking terminate a lease within 30 days of written notice if you provide an order of protection or recent police documentation. You owe rent for the month of termination and any past due amounts. (law.justia.com)
- Bifurcation/removing abuser from the lease: Tennessee law allows landlords to remove only the perpetrator from the lease when domestic abuse is the issue, with certain conditions tied to an order of protection. (law.justia.com)
Table — Housing Rights and Contacts
| Topic | What to know | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| VAWA protections | You can request an emergency transfer; you can’t be denied housing or evicted solely due to being a victim | HUD’s “Your Rights Under VAWA” and model forms |
| Section 8/HCV | THDA runs the program in most counties; check field office and waitlist status; use TNHousingSearch to look for units | THDA HCV page and field office contacts |
| Early lease termination | Written notice plus OP or recent police charge allows early termination within 30 days | Tennessee Code § 66‑28‑205 |
| Memphis area | For emergencies, contact YWCA shelter 901-725-4277 and CVRCC 901-222-3950/4350 | YWCA Greater Memphis; Shelby County CVRCC |
Sources. (hud.gov, thda.org, law.justia.com, memphisywca.org, shelbycountytn.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask Legal Aid to write a letter to your landlord citing the law, or request help from your local Family Justice/Safety Center to coordinate with your landlord and housing program. (las.org, fjcknoxville.org)
Medical and Forensic Care After Sexual Assault
- Exams are free to you: by law, victims of sexually‑oriented crimes are entitled to a forensic medical exam at no cost; the medical facility bills the state SAFE program, not the survivor, and cannot balance‑bill you. The maximum reimbursed to providers is $1,000 per exam. You do not have to report to police to get an exam. (treasury.tn.gov, codes.findlaw.com)
- Shelby County: CVRCC performs 24/7 adult and child exams at 1060 Madison Ave., Memphis; call 901-222-4350 after hours or 901-222-3950 weekdays. (shelbycountytn.gov)
- Hold kits: if you’re unsure about reporting, Tennessee allows an anonymous “hold kit” with an identifying number for storage while you decide. (codes.findlaw.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask hospital staff to contact the on‑call SANE nurse or call the National Hotline 1-800-799-7233 to connect to the nearest rape crisis program. (thehotline.org)
Legal Help by Region — Orders, Custody, Housing, Benefits
Table — Free/Low‑Cost Civil Legal Aid
| Region | Organization | Phone | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Middle TN & Cumberlands | Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee & the Cumberlands | 800-238-1443 | Intake by phone; offices in multiple counties; DV family law help. (las.org) |
| East TN | Legal Aid of East Tennessee (connect via Knoxville FJC) | 865-521-6336 | Serves East TN; orders of protection, housing, benefits. (fjcknoxville.org) |
| West TN (incl. Shelby) | Memphis Area Legal Services | 901-523-8822 | Family law, OPs, housing. (malsi.org) |
| West TN (rural & regional) | West Tennessee Legal Services | 800-372-8346 | Multiple offices; DV services across West TN. (wtls.org) |
Statewide coalition support and referrals — Tennessee Coalition to End Domestic & Sexual Violence: 615-386-9406 or 1-800-356-6767 (helpline). Note: the Coalition’s legal clinic closed on June 30, 2025, but the Coalition still offers referrals and information. (tncoalition.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: call the Statewide DV Helpline 1-800-356-6767 for other legal referral options near you. (tndvhelpline.com)
Child Care So You Can Work or Study
- Smart Steps child care payment assistance: for working or post‑secondary parents of children ages 6 weeks to kindergarten; income up to 85% of State Median Income; co‑pay based on sliding scale. Apply online through One DHS. For questions, call 1-833-772-8347. (tn.gov)
- Families First/Transitional child care: if you receive Families First or recently closed a case, you may qualify for subsidized child care while you work 30+ hours/week. (tn.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your TANF caseworker to coordinate child care so you can meet program requirements; DV “good cause” waivers are available when safety is at stake. (law.cornell.edu)
Community and Local Organizations (Selected)
- Nashville Office of Family Safety — Family Safety Center: 615-880-1100 — advocacy, OPs, housing help, counseling; walk‑ins welcome. (ofs.nashville.gov)
- Knoxville Family Justice Center: 865-521-6336 — intake, OPs, counseling; 24/7 DV hotline 865-637-8000. (fjcknoxville.org)
- Chattanooga Family Justice Center: 423-643-7600 — crisis support via 423-755-2700. (connect.chattanooga.gov)
- Upper Cumberland FJC (Cookeville): 931-528-1512 — Genesis House crisis 1-800-707-5197. (ucfamilyjusticecenter.org)
- YWCA Greater Memphis (Shelter/Hotline): 901-725-4277 — 24/7 DV shelter and advocacy. (memphisywca.org)
- Shelby County Crime Victims & Rape Crisis Center: 901-222-3950 office; 901-222-4350 24/7 sexual assault hotline. (shelbycountytn.gov)
- Tennessee Statewide DV Helpline: 1-800-356-6767 — 24/7 safety planning and referrals. (tndvhelpline.com)
Real‑World Examples — What Tennessee Moms Actually Do
- Example — Filing today in Knoxville: You meet an advocate at the Knoxville FJC at 8:30 a.m., complete the petition and get an ex parte order before lunch. Sheriff serves the respondent the next day. Your hearing is set within 15 days. The advocate helps you ask the landlord to remove the abuser from the lease under state law and helps you apply for SNAP expedited processing. (law.justia.com, tn.gov)
- Example — Memphis after the center closure: You call the YWCA 901-725-4277 at night and get shelter. The next day the shelter advocate connects you to the Shelby County CVRCC for counseling and to Legal Aid for an order of protection. (memphisywca.org, shelbycountytn.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
Table — One‑Page Program and Contact Guide
| Need | First call | What you’ll likely need |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate safety | 911 (or text 911 where available) | Address, description, injuries, weapon info |
| Shelter/advocacy | 1-800-356-6767 (statewide) | Safe callback number; nearest city |
| Order of Protection | Your local Family Justice/Safety Center or court clerk | ID (if safe), incident dates, any evidence, safe address to serve |
| Food benefits (SNAP) | 1-866-311-4287 or One DHS online | ID, proof of income/expenses, rent and utilities |
| Cash aid (Families First) | 1-866-311-4287 or One DHS online | IDs, proof of income, child’s birth cert, rent/utilities |
| Crime Victim Compensation | Tennessee Treasury online portal | Police report info (if any), bills, proof of losses |
Sources. (tndvhelpline.com, tn.gov, treasury.tn.gov)
Application Checklist — Bring What You Can
- For Orders of Protection: photo ID, any police reports, medical records, photos of injuries or damage, threatening texts or call logs, witnesses’ names/phones, safe address for service.
- For Families First/TANF: IDs for all in the case, Social Security numbers, birth certificates, proof of income (last 8 weeks of pay stubs or employer letter), rent/lease or utility bill, bank balance, child support order. (tn.gov)
- For SNAP (including expedited): ID, proof of rent and utilities, child support paid, medical bills if elderly/disabled, and any income documents; if homeless or fleeing, tell DHS so they know to evaluate for expedited service within 7 days. (tn.gov)
- For Victim Compensation: medical bills, counseling bills, proof of lost wages, lease/utility transfers for relocation, and the police report or case number if available (not always required for SAFE exam payment). (treasury.tn.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting on perfect proof: judges can grant temporary protection based on your sworn statement and risk; bring what you have now. (law.justia.com)
- Missing deadlines: hearings are set within 15 days of service; show up or call the clerk/advocate if you can’t attend to ask about a continuance. (law.justia.com)
- Not telling DHS about safety issues: disclose domestic violence to request “good cause” waivers or expedited SNAP; it can prevent sanctions and speed food help. (law.cornell.edu, tn.gov)
- Using your real address on public forms: enroll in Safe at Home to use a substitute address for state and local records. (sos.tn.gov)
- Relying on closed or outdated services: Memphis’ Family Safety Center is closed; use YWCA Greater Memphis and CVRCC instead. (dailymemphian.com, memphisywca.org)
Diverse Communities — Tailored Notes and Resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: many centers serve all survivors regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. When seeking shelter or legal help, tell advocates what name/pronouns to use and ask for LGBTQ‑inclusive services. The Nashville Office of Family Safety lists inclusive partners; the statewide helpline can route you to affirming programs. (ofs.nashville.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: tell advocates about any accessibility needs. Family Justice Centers coordinate with disability services and can help request reasonable accommodations in court and housing. CVRCC and FJCs can arrange interpreters and accessible transport. (connect.chattanooga.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: ask about VA resources and VAWA protections in HUD‑VASH or other subsidized housing; legal aid can coordinate with VA social workers. Use HUD’s VAWA protections for emergency transfers if you’re in covered housing. (hud.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Safe at Home is open to eligible victims regardless of immigration status for confidentiality with state/local agencies. You can call the National Hotline for help in 170+ languages and ask Legal Aid about immigration‑related remedies (U/T visas, VAWA self‑petitions). (sos.tn.gov, acf.hhs.gov)
- Tribal citizens: the National Hotline can connect you to StrongHearts Native Helpline through their directory, and VAWA protections apply in HUD‑covered housing. (thehotline.org, hud.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: if there’s no nearby shelter, call the statewide helpline for safe transport and the nearest Family Justice Center; many programs can meet by phone and coordinate shelter in adjacent counties. Upper Cumberland FJC serves multiple rural counties. (ucfamilyjusticecenter.org)
- Single fathers: most services listed serve all genders. YWCA Memphis, FJCs, and CVRCC provide advocacy for any survivor. Call first to confirm shelter options for men and boys. (shelbycountytn.gov)
- Language access: courts and FJCs can arrange interpreters; order‑of‑protection forms are available in multiple languages through Tennessee’s courts site. (tncourts.gov)
Regional Resource Snapshots
Table — Selected Regional Hotlines
| Region | Hotline | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Statewide | 1-800-356-6767 | 24/7 DV helpline and referrals |
| Nashville/Davidson | 615-880-1100 | Family Safety Center; OPs, shelter links |
| Knox County | 865-637-8000 | 24/7 DV hotline via Knoxville partners |
| Chattanooga/Hamilton | 423-755-2700 | 24/7 crisis hotline via Partnership |
| Shelby County — DV shelter | 901-725-4277 | YWCA Greater Memphis |
| Shelby County — sexual assault | 901-222-4350 | CVRCC 24/7 SANE access |
Sources. (ofs.nashville.gov, fjcknoxville.org, fjc.chattanooga.gov, memphisywca.org, shelbycountytn.gov)
Timelines You Can Expect
- Ex parte order: same day in many courts if danger shown.
- Order‑of‑protection hearing: within 15 days after the respondent is served; service must be ≥ 5 days before the hearing. (law.justia.com)
- Expedited SNAP: decision within 7 days; DHS aims to contact expedited cases within 4 days of application. (tn.gov)
- SAFE exam billing: providers must bill the state; no bills to you; reimbursements processed within 90 days of proper filing by the provider. (treasury.tn.gov)
- Victim compensation: submission and review vary; ask your advocate to help you track the claim and expected timeframe. (treasury.tn.gov)
Frequently Asked Questions — Tennessee Specific
- Which court handles my Order of Protection: General Sessions Court in your county; advocates at Family Justice/Safety Centers can walk you to the right clerk window. (tncourts.gov)
- Do I have to pay to file an Order of Protection: No. Tennessee law waives filing, service, and other court costs for petitioners; costs are generally assessed to the respondent if the order is granted. (law.justia.com)
- How long will my order last: up to 1 year; you can petition for extensions before it expires. Lifetime OPs exist in certain conviction cases. (law.justia.com, tncourts.gov)
- Can I keep my address off public records: Yes, through Tennessee’s Safe at Home program; you receive a substitute address for state/local records and mail forwarding. (sos.tn.gov)
- What if I need food right away: apply for expedited SNAP; if eligible, benefits should be issued within 7 days. (tn.gov)
- How much is TANF (Families First): for 3 people, the standard grant is $387 per month; see the table above for other household sizes. (tn.gov)
- Can I get a one‑time cash payment instead of monthly TANF: Yes. Ask about Diversion for up to 12 months of your grant amount if a lump sum will solve the crisis. (law.justia.com)
- I rent — can I end my lease early for safety: Yes, with written notice, a release date within 30 days, and an order of protection or recent police documentation. You’re responsible for the current month’s rent and past due amounts. (law.justia.com)
- Do I have to report to police to get a sexual assault exam: No. The exam is free to you and does not require a police report; you can choose an anonymous “hold kit.” (treasury.tn.gov, codes.findlaw.com)
- Where can I get help in Memphis since the Family Safety Center closed: call YWCA Greater Memphis 901-725-4277 for shelter/advocacy and CVRCC 901-222-3950 for counseling and sexual‑assault services. (tennesseelookout.com, shelbycountytn.gov)
If You Need Food, Cash, Housing, and Child Care — Side‑by‑Side
Table — Core Benefits for Survivors with Children
| Program | Who qualifies (high level) | Typical benefit or cap | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Families First (TANF) | Very low‑income families with children; time‑limited; DV waivers available | For 3 people: $387/mo; Diversion up to 12 months of grant | One DHS Customer Portal; questions 1-866-311-4287 |
| SNAP | Low‑income households; expedited in emergencies | For 4 people max $975/mo (FY2025) | One DHS Customer Portal; 1-866-311-4287 |
| Victim Compensation | Victims of qualifying crimes | Max $34,100 for crimes on/after 7/1/2025 | Tennessee Treasury online; (833) 867-3891 |
| Child Care (Smart Steps) | Working/student parents; income ≤ 85% SMI | State pays part; you pay sliding co‑pay | One DHS; 1-833-772-8347 |
| VAWA Housing Rights | Survivors in HUD‑covered housing | Emergency transfers; safety protections | Ask your PHA/landlord; use HUD VAWA forms |
Sources. (tn.gov, fns.usda.gov, treasury.tn.gov, hud.gov)
Plan B — If You Hit a Wall
- Can’t get to court: ask an advocate to help you file and request a continuance; courts prioritize safety and can reschedule.
- Shelter full: ask the helpline for alternative counties; many programs coordinate transportation and hotel placements when shelters are over capacity.
- No ID or documents: apply anyway and tell DHS/advocates what you’re missing; they can help you replace documents and accept alternative proofs.
- Limited phone/internet: use library computers or ask an advocate to submit applications on your behalf; many FJCs have safe phones and fax/scan.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: this guide uses official sources from Tennessee state agencies, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits. Our team verifies links, archives sources, and tracks changes. See our Editorial Standards for methods, review cycles, and accuracy commitments. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Key sources include: Tennessee AOC order‑of‑protection forms; Tennessee Code and AOC guidance on timelines and fees; Tennessee DHS Families First, SNAP, and Child Care pages; USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA; Tennessee Treasury’s Criminal Injuries Compensation and SAFE program; HUD VAWA guidance; official Family Justice/Safety Center pages; and county CVRCC/YWCA sites. Citations are provided throughout so you can click and confirm details.
Disclaimer
Important notice: Program rules, amounts, deadlines, and phone numbers change. Always verify the latest information with the official agency or program linked in this guide before you act. This guide is for general information, not legal advice or case‑specific guidance. We are independent researchers and are not affiliated with any government agency. For corrections or updates, email info@asinglemother.org.
Security note: if you believe your devices are monitored, consider using a safe device at a library, school, or trusted friend’s house. Clear your browser history and avoid saving passwords on shared devices. The National Hotline offers quick‑exit features and digital safety tips. (thehotline.org)
Source highlights (selected)
- Tennessee AOC Order of Protection forms and Lifetime OP forms; Tennessee timelines and fees; language options. (tncourts.gov, law.justia.com)
- Safe at Home Address Confidentiality — eligibility, uses, and how to apply. (sos.tn.gov)
- Family Justice/Safety Centers — Nashville, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Upper Cumberland; hotlines and hours. (ofs.nashville.gov, fjcknoxville.org, fjc.chattanooga.gov, ucfamilyjusticecenter.org)
- Memphis update — Family Safety Center closure; replacement contacts. (dailymemphian.com, tennesseelookout.com)
- Families First (TANF) grant amounts/income tests; Diversion option; DV waivers. (tn.gov, law.justia.com, law.cornell.edu)
- SNAP FY2025 maximums; expedited timelines and interview contacts. (fns.usda.gov, tn.gov)
- Victim Compensation maximums; SAFE program coverage; hold kits. (treasury.tn.gov, codes.findlaw.com)
- HUD VAWA rights and Tennessee HCV administration. (hud.gov, thda.org)
- State hotlines (DV and child abuse). (tndvhelpline.com, tn.gov)
Final encouragement: you do not have to navigate this alone. A two‑minute call to a hotline or Family Justice/Safety Center can line up safety planning, court help, benefits, and housing steps the same day.
🏛️More Tennessee Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Tennessee
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
