Workplace Rights and Pregnancy Protection for Single Mothers in Tennessee

Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection for Single Mothers in Tennessee (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

If you’re pregnant, nursing, or parenting and trying to keep a job in Tennessee, this guide shows you the fastest actions to protect your paycheck, your health, and your child—plus where to get immediate help.

If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

Call the federal helplines to lock in your legal rights fast. Contact the Wage & Hour Division for pumping breaks under the PUMP Act at 1-866-4US-WAGE and the EEOC for pregnancy or postpartum accommodations under the PWFA at 1-800-669-4000; use the online portals at U.S. Department of Labor (WHD), EEOC Public Portal, and EEOC PWFA “What to Know”. (dol.gov)
Apply for health coverage and baby supplies today. Pregnant Tennesseans can get TennCare or CoverKids quickly, including up to 100 diapers per month for children under age two; start at TennCare Connect, TennCare “Pregnant?”, and the diaper benefit page at TennCare Diapers. (tn.gov)
Stop a shutoff or eviction before it happens. Reach energy help through LIHEAP (THDA), NES customers through NeedLink Nashville, and Memphis utilities through MLGW On Track; also check regional HUD info at HUD Tennessee. Call first to confirm funding before applying. (thda.org)

Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

Wage & Hour (pumping time/space, FMLA) 1-866-4US-WAGE; online at DOL WHD Local Offices, PUMP Act FAQs, and FMLA Fact Sheet 28. (dol.gov)
EEOC (pregnancy/PWFA, discrimination) 1-800-669-4000; EEOC Nashville, EEOC Timeliness, and PWFA Final Rule Summary. (eeoc.gov)
Tennessee Civil Rights (state anti-discrimination) Tennessee Attorney General’s Civil Rights Enforcement Division 615-741-3491; see CRED page, THDA notice, and THRC transition update. (tn.gov)
TennCare health coverage & diapers 1-855-259-0701; apply at TennCare Connect, check income at TennCare Eligibility Categories, and diapers at TennCare Diapers. (tn.gov)
One DHS portal for SNAP/TANF/Child Care 1-833-772-8347; use One DHS Customer Portal, see SNAP Eligibility, and Families First (TANF). (tn.gov)

What You’re Entitled To at Work (Pregnancy, Birth, and Breastfeeding) in Tennessee

Fast action: If your boss says “no” to basic pregnancy needs, ask for an “interactive process” meeting and say you’re requesting a reasonable accommodation under the federal PWFA, Tennessee’s Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, and Title VII. Save emails, doctor notes, schedules, and write down who said what, when. File complaints early if needed.

Learn your rights at EEOC PWFA “What to Know”, get the final rule summary at EEOC PWFA Final Rule, and see the state statute at T.C.A. § 50-10-103 (Justia). If you need to complain, start at EEOC Public Portal. (eeoc.gov)
For pumping at work, use the PUMP Act. You have a private, non-bathroom space and reasonable break time for one year after birth; read DOL Fact Sheet #73, see practical FAQs at Pump-at-Work FAQs, and compare PWFA vs. PUMP in the EEOC’s chart at Time & Place to Pump. For enforcement, contact WHD Local Offices. (dol.gov)
Tennessee adds extra protection. The state requires reasonable pregnancy accommodations for employers with 15+ workers and says you can’t be forced onto leave if another reasonable accommodation works. Review T.C.A. § 50-10-103, see a plain-English summary at UT CTAS explainer, and track the law’s scope at FindLaw text. If a violation occurs, the state-level complaint route is now the Attorney General’s Civil Rights Enforcement Division at CRED. (law.justia.com)

Key Protections and Who Enforces Them

Law	What it gives you	Who enforces	Coverage
Federal PWFA	Reasonable accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth, related conditions (e.g., extra water, bathroom breaks, light duty, schedule tweaks)	EEOC	Most employers with 15+ employees; effective 6/27/2023; final rule effective 6/18/2024
PUMP Act	Reasonable break time and a private, non‑bathroom pumping space for 1 year	U.S. DOL WHD	Nearly all FLSA‑covered employers; limited exceptions
Title VII (PDA)	No discrimination because of pregnancy/childbirth; equal treatment	EEOC	Most employers with 15+ employees
ADA	Accommodations for pregnancy‑related impairments (e.g., gestational diabetes)	EEOC	15+ employees
TN Pregnant Workers Fairness Act	State accommodations and anti‑retaliation	TN AG CRED	15+ employees in TN
TN Maternity/Parental Leave	Up to 4 months unpaid for adoption, pregnancy, childbirth, nursing an infant for employees at 100+ employer sites	TN Code §4‑21‑408	100+ employees at site; 12 months’ service
FMLA	12 weeks unpaid, job‑protected leave; prenatal visits count	U.S. DOL	50+ employees within 75 miles; 12 mos/1,250 hrs service

Learn the PWFA timeline at EEOC PWFA Final Rule Summary, pumping rights at DOL Fact Sheet #73, and state leave at T.C.A. §4‑21‑408. If your employer is the State of Tennessee, six weeks paid parental leave may apply under state rules; see TN Comp. R. & Regs. 1120‑06‑.20. (eeoc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File with EEOC within 180 days to be safe (some cases allow 300 days), call WHD for PUMP/FMLA, and submit a state complaint to TN AG CRED (THRC has been dissolved and enforcement moved July 1, 2025). Deadlines can be strict—act fast. (eeoc.gov)

How To Ask for Pregnancy or Postpartum Accommodations (Step‑by‑Step)

Write a short request: “I’m requesting a reasonable accommodation under the PWFA and Tennessee law.” Include what you need (more breaks, seating, lifting limit, schedule change), when you need it, and how it helps you do the job. Use EEOC PWFA guidance, the rights chart for pumping at EEOC Pumping Rights, and the TN statute triggers at T.C.A. § 50‑10‑103. (eeoc.gov)
Bring a doctor’s note only when needed: Under TN law, a medical note can be requested for light duty, transfer, time away, or job restructuring; it is not required for basic needs like water, bathroom breaks, or a chair. See T.C.A. § 50‑10‑103, compare to EEOC PWFA, and note PUMP Act rules at DOL Fact Sheet #73. (law.justia.com)
Escalate if stalled: Ask HR for an “interactive process” meeting. If you’re denied or ignored, contact EEOC (protect your 180/300‑day filing window), call WHD for pumping/FMLA, and consider free help from Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee or Legal Aid of East Tennessee. (eeoc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File the charge anyway and keep working your plan—ask A Better Balance for a rights consult, talk to TN AG CRED about state claims, and save all emails and notes. The sooner you file, the easier it is to fix or recover losses. (Link provided for your convenience.)

Leave Time: What You Can Use and How It Stacks

Federal FMLA: Up to 12 workweeks unpaid, job‑protected leave for your own serious health condition and bonding; prenatal visits can be intermittent. Start with FMLA Fact Sheet #28, read employer notice rules in Fact Sheet #28D, and 12‑month methods at Fact Sheet #28H. You can also call WHD. (dol.gov)
Tennessee Parental/Maternity Leave: Up to 4 months unpaid for adoption, pregnancy, childbirth, or nursing an infant if your worksite has 100+ full‑time employees and you’ve worked 12 months; advance notice is usually 3 months unless there’s a medical emergency. See T.C.A. § 4‑21‑408 and state overview at THRC Maternity Leave page; public employers also follow state regs 1120‑06‑.20. (law.justia.com)
How it stacks: If you’re eligible for both FMLA (12 weeks) and the Tennessee 4‑month leave, your employer may run them together; talk to HR about using paid sick/annual time first. See interaction notes at UT CTAS, check FMLA rules, and confirm any union or employer policy that offers more. Keep copies of all forms. (ctas.tennessee.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If leave is denied or cut short, file with WHD for FMLA enforcement and with EEOC if denial is because of pregnancy. Ask Legal Aid to review timelines before you miss a filing deadline. (dol.gov)

Health Coverage, Breastfeeding Support, and Baby Diapers

Get covered while pregnant: Tennessee uses expedited paths for pregnant people, including Temporary TennCare and full coverage with 12 months of postpartum eligibility. Income limits for pregnant women appear as 250% FPL on TennCare’s 2025 table, and policy regs show eligibility at 195% FPL for pregnant Medicaid categories; use online help at TennCare “Pregnant?”, income charts at TennCare Eligibility Categories, and program regs at LII TennCare Rules. Call to confirm which path fits your household. (tn.gov)
Free diapers (TennCare/CoverKids): Families can pick up to 100 diapers per child per month under age two at participating pharmacies—no prescription—using the plan pharmacy card. Use TennCare Diapers, see CMS approval in CMS Roundup May 31, 2024, and TennCare’s announcement at TennCare III amendment. Ask your local pharmacy about stock before visiting. (tn.gov)
WIC & breastfeeding help: Get WIC food plus lactation support; call 1-800-DIAL‑WIC (1-800-342-5942), reach the TN Breastfeeding Hotline 24/7, and see WIC Breastfeeding Support; peer counselors and pumps may be available. Check county listings at TN Designated Breastfeeding Experts. (tn.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Tennessee Justice Center if you hit a TennCare/WIC snag, and ask your county health department for on‑site application help. Submit appeals through the plan and keep deadlines on every notice. (tnjustice.org)

Bills and Benefits You Can Use Now

Food, Cash, Child Care, and Unemployment

SNAP (food): Apply fast online and upload docs at One DHS, review rules at SNAP Eligibility, and call 1-833-772-8347 for case help. Missing a form or change report can stop benefits—set calendar reminders. Check ABAWD updates and exemptions on the state page. (tn.gov)
Families First (TANF): Monthly cash for very low-income families; a family of three’s maximum standard payment is set from the state’s Consolidated Need Standard and recent law increases (e.g., base max rose to $387 for a family of three). See rules at Families First, the financial standards table at TN Admin. Rules 1240‑01‑50‑.20, and background at TANF Opportunity Act. Apply and upload via One DHS. Amounts can vary by income and group size. Call first to confirm current availability. (law.cornell.edu)
Child care payment assistance: Smart Steps and other pathways help with care costs for working or schooling parents. As of August 26, 2025, TDHS placed new Smart Steps applicants on a waitlist; beginning October 1, 2025, most families pay a 5% co‑pay based on income (co‑pays are waived ≤150% FPL). Review updates at Child Care Funding Update, check the income/co‑pay chart at TDHS Co‑Pay Table (PDF), and apply at Child Care Certificate Program. Use Find Child Care to locate providers that accept certificates. (tn.gov)
Unemployment if you’re pushed out or fired: If separated through no fault of your own, you may qualify for up to $325/week and typically up to 12 weeks when the statewide unemployment rate is ≤5.5%. Start at Apply for Benefits, see weekly certification rules at Certify Weekly, and check statute on duration at T.C.A. § 50‑7‑301. You must be able and available to work; ask the agency about temporary work restrictions tied to medical care. (tn.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use TDHS appeals & hearings for SNAP/TANF/Child Care denials, ask Legal Aid Society to review, and for unemployment, call 1-844-224-5818 and keep your weekly certifications going. Expect 10–21 days for many determinations; ask about expedited SNAP if you’re very low on food. (tn.gov)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Tennessee Today

Start with LIHEAP: Apply through your local agency; benefits in TN range from about $600 t o$ 1,000 depending on energy burden and funding. Use THDA LIHEAP, check the state profile at LIHEAP Clearinghouse, and confirm application timing on the THDA page. Payments go to the utility, not you. Funding and amounts vary by county—call first. (thda.org)
Nashville NES: NeedLink can help NES customers with disconnection threats; apply online or in person at NeedLink Nashville, and review NES assistance details on their portal as needed. Call early Monday. NES also partners with community funds. (needlink.org)
Memphis MLGW: On Track helps customers with bills and budgeting; apply at MLGW On Track or call 1-901-528-4820. For charitable help, check Plus‑1 updates and city/TVA programs through announcements and community partners. Always ask MLGW for a payment arrangement while you wait. (mlgw.com)
Knoxville KUB: Project Help (administered by CAC) and partner agencies can assist; start at KUB Payment Assistance, learn about Project Help at KUB Project Help page, and call CAC at 1-865-637-6700 to screen for help. Utility programs change by season—confirm current status. (kub.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility’s customer service for a medical necessity hold if applicable, request a supervisor for longer payment plans, and apply (again) to LIHEAP when new funding cycles open. Save disconnection notices and receipt numbers. (thda.org)

Workplace Safety While Pregnant or Breastfeeding

Lower risky job tasks: Talk to your provider about lifting, long standing, and chemical exposures. See NIOSH Physical Demands & Reproductive Health, NIOSH Reproductive Health Overview, and OSHA Reproductive Hazards for credible guidance. Share Safety Data Sheets with your OB/Midwife. (cdc.gov)
Protect pumping safely: Choose a clean, private room with a chair, outlet, and a nearby sink, and secure milk in a cooler or shared fridge. Compare PWFA vs. PUMP requirements at EEOC Pumping Rights, read Fact Sheet #73, and call WHD if your space is a bathroom or not private. (eeoc.gov)
Ask for PPE or task changes: If you handle solvents, formaldehyde, metals, or radiation, request a temporary reassignment or extra PPE. See job examples at NIOSH Jobs & Reproductive Health, standards at OSHA Reproductive Standards, and general guidance at NIOSH: Workers. (cdc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Document hazards, ask for the “interactive process,” and file safety complaints when needed. Use OSHA for hazards, EEOC for accommodations, and WHD for pumping. Keep copies of your request and any denials.

Tables You Can Screenshot

Quick Law-to-Agency Map

Issue	Your Right	Where to call/file
Pregnancy accommodations	Reasonable accommodations; no forced leave if an accommodation works	EEOC; TN AG CRED
Pumping at work	Private, non‑bathroom space; reasonable break time for 1 year	WHD helpline
Leave time	FMLA (12 weeks) & TN parental leave (up to 4 months at 100+ worksites)	DOL FMLA; T.C.A. §4‑21‑408

Health Coverage & Support

Need	Where to start	Notes
Pregnant coverage	TennCare Pregnant?	Temporary coverage options; postpartum to 12 months
Diapers	TennCare Diaper Benefit	Up to 100 diapers/month, < age 2
WIC & breastfeeding	WIC Support; TN Breastfeeding Hotline	Pumps/peer counselors vary by county

Family Budget Helpers

Program	Where to apply	Typical notes
SNAP	One DHS portal	Keep docs updated
Families First	Families First page	Max depends on size/income
Child care	Child Care Certificate Program	Waitlist active for Smart Steps

Utilities

Area	Main help	Contact
Statewide energy	LIHEAP (THDA)	Amounts and timing vary
Nashville	NeedLink (NES)	Apply Mon 9 AM
Memphis	MLGW On Track	1-901-528-4820
Knoxville	KUB Project Help	CAC 1-865-637-6700

Deadlines That Matter

Topic	Typical timeline	Where to act
EEOC charge	File within 180 days (some up to 300); don’t wait	EEOC portal
FMLA notices	Employer must post and notify you; track your 12‑month method	FMLA FS #28D
LIHEAP cycles	Openings vary; ask the local agency	THDA LIHEAP

Diverse Communities: Tailored Pointers and Doorways to Help

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask HR for a private pumping room and inclusive benefits; file discrimination tied to sex/sexual orientation/gender identity under Title VII. Use EEOC “How to File”, confirm PUMP rights via WHD Fact Sheet #73, and check health coverage and providers through TennCare. If safety is a concern, contact local Family Safety Centers listed by your city or YWCA hotline. (dol.gov)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for reasonable scheduling or task changes under ADA/PWFA and for child care differentials if available. Review EEOC PWFA, request benefits help from TN Justice Center, and check child care co‑pay rules in TDHS Co‑Pay Table. For DHS appeals, use One DHS Contact. (eeoc.gov)

Veteran single mothers: File VA claims through accredited reps and avoid paid “consultants.” Get state help via Tennessee Department of Veterans Services, national help via VA MyVA411, and emergency crisis support at 988 (press 1) via Veterans Crisis Line. Use county Veterans Service Officers to review benefits, and report scams to FTC or VA. (tn.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can get pregnancy Medicaid/CHIP in many cases; see TennCare “Pregnant?” and CoverKids. For language access, ask agencies for free interpreters; see State language assistance, and use Tennessee Language Center if your provider lacks options. For workplace rights, file with EEOC even if English is not your first language. (tn.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources: Federal rights apply regardless of ancestry; for workplace discrimination, go to EEOC; for WIC and Indian Health Service clinics, ask your local health department via TN Health and federal listings. Use USDA WIC Support to find nearby breastfeeding help.

Rural single moms with limited access: Ask for telehealth lactation support through your plan, and apply online for benefits at One DHS. For utilities, call LIHEAP early each season, and for legal questions use Legal Aid of East Tennessee or Legal Aid Society for phone intake. (thda.org)

Single fathers: Many of the same laws protect you (FMLA bonding leave, TN parental leave, and PUMP if you’re a supportive caregiver handling pickups/appointments). Start at DOL FMLA, see T.C.A. §4‑21‑408, and contact Legal Aid Society for custody or child support modification help. (dol.gov)

Language access: Ask for translated forms or interpreters—agencies must provide them. Use state contacts at Language Assistance page, the Tennessee Language Center for interpretation services, and request translated notices on EEOC filings when needed. (tn.gov)

Resources by Region (Examples You Can Call)

West Tennessee: Memphis Area Legal Services 1-901-523-8822; MLGW On Track 1-901-528-4820; HUD Tennessee for housing; apply to LIHEAP. (malsi.org)
Middle Tennessee: Legal Aid Society 1-800-238-1443; NeedLink Nashville (NES); Family Safety Center/YWCA; apply to LIHEAP. (las.org)
East Tennessee: Legal Aid of East Tennessee; KUB Payment Assistance; Project Help; and LIHEAP. (laet.org)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Waiting too long to file: File with EEOC within 180 days to be safe; PUMP/FMLA issues go to WHD. Missing deadlines kills many strong cases. (eeoc.gov)
Not documenting: Save texts/emails, write down dates and names, and keep doctor notes. Use EEOC PWFA guidance and DOL PUMP FAQs as backup. (eeoc.gov)
Assuming you don’t qualify: Even small employers might be covered under some laws; check PWFA basics, PUMP Act rules, and TN parental leave at §4‑21‑408. (eeoc.gov)

Reality Check

Delays happen: Benefits and utility programs pause when funding runs out; LIHEAP and local funds open/close across the year. Always check THDA LIHEAP, your utility site, and 211 for status. (thda.org)
State enforcement shifted: Tennessee dissolved the THRC on June 30, 2025; state civil rights enforcement moved to the AG’s CRED on July 1, 2025. This change does not affect your ability to file with EEOC for federal claims—file early. (tn.gov)
Unemployment is tighter: Tennessee’s UI max is $325/week with most claims capped at 12 weeks when unemployment is low. Read Apply for Benefits and check changes at TDLWD before you rely on it. (tn.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Goal	Fastest Path	Backup
Get an accommodation	Email HR citing PWFA + TN law; propose 2–3 options	File with EEOC
Secure pumping space	Ask for a private non‑bathroom room; post your pumping schedule	Call WHD
Health coverage + diapers	Apply at TennCare Connect; use diaper pharmacies	Ask TN Justice Center
Food + cash	Apply at One DHS for SNAP/Families First	Appeal denials at TDHS Appeals
Stop shutoff	Apply LIHEAP + local utility aid	Ask for a payment plan immediately

Application Checklist (Screenshot‑Friendly)

Photo ID (driver’s license or other) — upload to One DHS or bring in person.
Proof of pregnancy or due date (clinic printout) — for TennCare or WIC.
Income proof (last 30 days of paystubs or award letters) — required for SNAP and Families First.
Utility bill with account number — needed for LIHEAP or local utility aid.
Child care provider info — for Child Care Certificate Program.

If Your Application Gets Denied (Appeals & Fixes)

Read the notice and clock the deadline: Most benefits have short appeal windows. Use TDHS Appeals & Hearings for SNAP/TANF/Child Care, WHD for PUMP/FMLA, and EEOC for discrimination. (tn.gov)
Submit a written appeal and keep proof: Upload via your portal, fax with confirmation, or mail certified. Ask Legal Aid or Legal Aid of East Tennessee to review. For housing/utility emergencies, apply to LIHEAP again when new funding drops. (las.org)
Request a conference: Many agencies can fix errors fast if you ask for a supervisor review; bring ID, paystubs, and notices.

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups (Examples)

Legal help: Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee, Legal Aid of East Tennessee, and Memphis Area Legal Services can advise on benefits, work, and safety.
Pregnancy/Workplace rights: A Better Balance (Helpline) can explain PWFA/PUMP; for federal enforcement use EEOC and WHD.
Safety & DV: Family Safety Center/YWCA Nashville, your county’s 24/7 hotline, and HUD Tennessee for housing contacts.

County‑Level Variations to Expect

LIHEAP: Benefit levels and crisis help vary by county and agency; see ranges in the LIHEAP Clearinghouse and call your local office through THDA LIHEAP. Funding can pause mid‑year. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
Child care: Waitlist status and provider capacity differ by county; check TDHS Updates and your One DHS messages. (tn.gov)
Utilities: Programs like MLGW On Track, NeedLink, and KUB Project Help are city‑specific. Always call your utility’s help line for current options. (mlgw.com)

10 Tennessee‑Specific FAQs

Can my boss make me take unpaid leave instead of letting me sit or take extra bathroom breaks? No—both PWFA and TN law say employers can’t force leave if a reasonable accommodation works. See PWFA basics and T.C.A. § 50‑10‑103; file at EEOC portal if needed. (eeoc.gov)
Is pumping paid or unpaid? Breaks can be unpaid unless you’re otherwise paid for that time; you must be paid if you’re not fully relieved from duty. See DOL Fact Sheet #73 and ask HR about any paid rest break policy; escalate to WHD if denied. (dol.gov)
How long do I have to file a pregnancy discrimination charge in Tennessee now that THRC closed? File with EEOC within 180 days to be safe (some cases up to 300 days); state complaints go to TN AG CRED. Don’t wait. (eeoc.gov)
Do I get paid leave in Tennessee? Tennessee law gives up to 4 months unpaid leave for adoption/pregnancy/childbirth/nursing at employers with 100+ at the site; many employers overlay paid PTO/STD. State employees have 6 weeks paid parental leave. See §4‑21‑408 and 1120‑06‑.20. (law.justia.com)
What income gets me TennCare while pregnant? TennCare posts pregnant income limits (e.g., 2025 tables at 250% FPL for presumptive) and postpartum coverage lasts 12 months; check TennCare Pregnant?, category chart at Eligibility Categories, and policy regs at LII rules. (tn.gov)
Can I get free diapers? Yes—up to 100 diapers/month per child under age two for TennCare/CoverKids. Use TennCare Diapers and show your pharmacy card. (tn.gov)
My child care bill exploded. Any help? Apply for Child Care Payment Assistance; co‑pays will be 5% of monthly income starting Oct. 1, 2025, and Smart Steps has a waitlist as of Aug. 26, 2025—see TDHS update and co‑pay chart. (tn.gov)
How do I keep power on this week? Apply to LIHEAP and local programs: NeedLink (NES), MLGW On Track, or KUB Project Help; ask the utility for a payment plan. (thda.org)
I was let go after asking for accommodations—now what? File with EEOC (retaliation is illegal), apply for UI at TDLWD, and talk to Legal Aid. Keep job search logs while UI is pending. (tn.gov)
Where can I get quick breastfeeding help? Call the TN Breastfeeding Hotline (24/7), ask your health plan via TennCare Pregnant?, and contact your county’s Designated Breastfeeding Expert. (tn.gov)

Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Esta es una guía rápida para madres solteras en Tennessee. Solicite protecciones laborales (PWFA/PUMP) en EEOC y DOL WHD, cobertura médica y pañales en TennCare, comida y efectivo en One DHS, y ayuda de energía en LIHEAP (THDA). Para asistencia legal gratuita llame a Legal Aid Society o Legal Aid of East Tennessee. Nota: esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; confirme detalles con las agencias oficiales. (las.org)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

We relied on official sources, including:

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) — PWFA rules, filing timelines, and how to file. (eeoc.gov)
U.S. Department of Labor (WHD) — PUMP Act, FMLA, and enforcement contacts. (dol.gov)
Tennessee Attorney General — Civil Rights Enforcement Division — State discrimination complaints. (tn.gov)
Tennessee Department of Human Services — SNAP, Families First, Child Care. (tn.gov)
TennCare — Pregnancy coverage and diaper benefit. (tn.gov)
Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) — LIHEAP and local agency info. (thda.org)
Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee, Legal Aid of East Tennessee, and Memphis Area Legal Services — Free legal assistance statewide. (las.org)

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

This guide follows our Editorial Standards, uses only official sources, and is updated regularly. We are not a government agency and this is not legal advice. Individual outcomes vary. If you spot an error, email info@asinglemother.org—responses within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information. Laws, funding, and eligibility change often. Always confirm with the agency websites linked here and save copies of everything you submit. For urgent legal help, contact EEOC, WHD, or your local Legal Aid office.

🏛️More Tennessee Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Tennessee