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Assistance for Rural Single Mothers in Tennessee

Last updated: September 2025

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Federal Poverty Level (FPL) – 2025 Reference for Tennessee

The Federal Poverty Guidelines are the same for the 48 contiguous states, including Tennessee. Many programs use a percentage of FPL to determine eligibility.


2025 Federal Poverty Level (FPL) – Monthly and Annual

Household Size Annual FPL Monthly FPL
2 $21,720 $1,810
3 $27,360 $2,280
4 $33,000 $2,750
5 $38,640 $3,220

Source: 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines (official HHS notice)

Note: The HHS guidelines are published annually; programs may implement updates on different timelines. Always check the program’s current thresholds.

Key Income Thresholds for a Rural Tennessee Family (2025)

This table summarizes common program thresholds relevant to single-mom households in Tennessee. Thresholds refer to gross income unless otherwise noted. If a precise statewide dollar amount varies by county or is not published by the administering agency, we link to the official page.

Program Name (FPL %) Income Threshold Family of 2 Family of 3 Family of 4 Family of 5 Notes/Source
SNAP (Food Stamps) – Gross 130% FPL; Net 100% $2,353 $2,964 $3,575 $4,186 Asset limit generally $2,750 (households w/o elderly/disabled). See TDHS SNAP eligibility overview and USDA SNAP policy.
WIC – 185% FPL $3,349 $4,218 $5,087 $5,956 For pregnant/postpartum/breastfeeding women, infants, and children under 5. See Tennessee WIC eligibility.
Families First (TANF) – State-set; countable income test Varies Varies Varies Varies Tennessee sets maximum benefits and income tests by need standard; see Families First (TANF) details.
TennCare Medicaid – Parents/Caretaker Relatives (approx. very low FPL) Program uses caretaker criteria Program uses caretaker criteria Program uses caretaker criteria Program uses caretaker criteria Eligibility based on being a caretaker of a dependent child and having very low income; see TennCare eligibility categories.
TennCare – Pregnant Women (typically up to 195% FPL in TN CoverKids/expansion category) $3,530 $4,355 $5,180 $6,005 See TennCare/CoverKids pregnancy coverage for current limits.
CoverKids (Tennessee CHIP) – Children Sliding scale by FPL Sliding scale by FPL Sliding scale by FPL Sliding scale by FPL Premiums vary by income; see CoverKids eligibility and costs.
Child Care Payment Assistance (Smart Steps/At-Risk) – up to 85% SMI Varies by county and SMI Varies Varies Varies Parent copay based on income. See TDHS Child Care Payment Assistance.
LIHEAP – typically up to 150% FPL (by program period) $2,715 $3,420 $4,125 $4,830 Apply via community action agencies; see THDA LIHEAP.
Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) – ≤50% Area Median Income (AMI) AMI varies by county AMI varies AMI varies AMI varies Check your county’s limits via HUD Income Limits dataset for TN.
Free School Meals – Directly certified via SNAP/TANF; Income up to 130% FPL $2,353 $2,964 $3,575 $4,186 See USDA school meals eligibility.

Reality check: Some Tennessee programs use “state median income (SMI)” or county AMI instead of FPL. Income thresholds may also consider deductions. Always review the linked official page and, if possible, speak with a caseworker before applying.

Emergency Help First

Crisis and Immediate Safety

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 to locate a nearby crisis shelter or faith-based outreach. If phone access is limited, go to your county sheriff’s office or a hospital emergency department to request social work assistance.

SNAP (Food Stamps) in Tennessee

Eligibility, Income, and Assets

  • Gross income test typically 130% FPL; net income test 100% FPL after deductions.
  • Asset limit: $2,750 for most households without elderly/disabled members; $4,250 if elderly/disabled present. See USDA SNAP assets guidance.
  • Work rules: Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) have time limits; single moms with children are generally exempt from ABAWD time limits but must meet other work requirements if applicable. See TDHS SNAP program page.

Maximum Monthly SNAP Allotments (2024–25 issuance)

USDA updates maximum benefits each October. For accurate, current maximums, use USDA’s charts. As of late 2024/2025 issuance, typical maximums are in this range:

  • Household of 2: around $535
  • Household of 3: around $766
  • Household of 4: around $973
  • Household of 5: around $1,155

Verify the current Tennessee amounts via USDA SNAP maximum allotments table. Tennessee follows the 48-states schedule.

Reality check: Your actual benefit depends on counted income and deductions (standard deduction, shelter expenses, dependent care). Many households receive less than the maximum.

How to Apply

Required Documents

  • Photo ID, Social Security numbers, proof of Tennessee residency, proof of income (pay stubs, child support), rent/mortgage and utility bills, child care receipts.

Timelines

  • Expedited SNAP: You may qualify for 3–7 day expedited issuance if income and resources are extremely low—ask explicitly.
  • Regular processing is typically up to 30 days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not reporting all deductions (especially child care and high shelter costs).
  • Missing the interview call—keep your phone on and voicemail open.
  • Uploading unclear photos—scan or photograph documents clearly.

What to Do if This Doesn’t Work

  • Request a fair hearing with TDHS (instructions in your notice).
  • Contact Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands at 800-238-1443 via Legal Aid Society intake.

WIC in Tennessee

Who Qualifies

  • Pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding women, infants, and children under 5.
  • Income at or below 185% FPL or adjunct eligibility through SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF.

Monthly WIC Benefits

  • Food packages include milk, eggs, cereal, whole grains, infant formula (if needed), and fruits/vegetables.
  • Cash Value Benefit (CVB) for fruits/vegetables has ranged between federal temporary increases; check the current monthly CVB via Tennessee WIC benefits details or the USDA WIC policy updates page for the 2024–2025 final rule amounts.

Reality check: Clinic supply and federal adjustments can change quantity/brands allowed. Ask at your clinic about current CVB for your category and age of child.

How to Apply

  • Call: 800-342-5942 (Tennessee WIC)
  • Find a clinic: Tennessee WIC clinic finder
  • Documentation: ID, proof of address, proof of income, and pregnancy verification (if applicable).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing required nutrition education or benefit pick-up windows.
  • Not updating phone/address—benefits can lapse.

What to Do if This Doesn’t Work

  • Appeal through the clinic’s fair hearing instructions.
  • Ask your county health department about immediate food resources and referrals to SNAP or local pantries.

Families First (Tennessee TANF) – Cash Assistance and Support Services

What It Offers

  • Monthly cash assistance, work/training support, and supportive services.
  • Time limits apply, and work participation is required for most recipients.

Eligibility and Payment Amounts

Tennessee sets Families First amounts and eligibility using a state need standard and countable income. Payment standards vary by household size and circumstances. For the current maximum grant and income test by family size, see the official Families First (TANF) program details and payment tables or contact TDHS at 833-772-8347.

Reality check: Tennessee’s TANF cash grants are modest. Many families use TANF as a bridge while stabilizing income and child care.

How to Apply

Timelines

  • Processing typically within 30 days if all documents are submitted.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not completing work activity requirements—talk to your case manager if you lack transportation or child care.
  • Missing appointments—request rescheduling promptly.

What to Do if This Doesn’t Work

Child Care Payment Assistance (Smart Steps, At-Risk/Transitional)

Who Qualifies

  • Working or in approved education/training.
  • Income up to 85% of State Median Income (SMI), with parent copays based on income and family size. Values vary and are published by TDHS.

Check the current income limits and copay table via TDHS Child Care Payment Assistance – eligibility and copay information.

How to Apply

Required Documents

  • Proof of work/school schedule, pay stubs, child identity, and residency.

Timelines

  • Waitlists may exist in some counties. Ask your county contact about expected timelines up front.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not updating changes in work hours/income.
  • Choosing a provider not authorized for subsidy.

What to Do if This Doesn’t Work

TennCare (Medicaid) and CoverKids (Tennessee CHIP)

Coverage Paths for Single-Mom Families

  • TennCare for children: Income thresholds are higher for kids; varies by age.
  • TennCare for parents/caretaker relatives: Very low income; check category specifics.
  • Pregnant coverage: Tennessee covers pregnant people at higher income ranges via TennCare/CoverKids.
  • CoverKids (CHIP): For uninsured children and pregnant people above Medicaid levels, with sliding premiums.

For exact 2025 income thresholds and premiums, use the official pages:

Reality check: Processing can take time; respond quickly to mail or portal messages and submit verification documents promptly.

Required Documents

  • Identity, SSNs if available, residency, income (pay stubs), pregnancy verification if applicable.

Timelines

  • Pregnant applicants may get faster processing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not submitting requested verification by the deadline.
  • Not reporting changes in income or household size.

What to Do if This Doesn’t Work

LIHEAP (Energy/Utility Help) in Tennessee

What It Covers

  • One-time payment toward heating/cooling bills.
  • Priority for households with young children, elderly, or disabled members.

Eligibility

  • Typically up to 150% FPL (some components vary).
  • Income documentation required.

How to Apply

Assistance Amounts

  • Assistance varies by funding and household need. For current benefit ranges in your county, contact your local agency listed on the THDA LIHEAP page.

Timelines

  • Processing often within 30 days, faster in crisis (disconnect notice or low fuel).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting until after a cutoff—apply as soon as you get a past-due or disconnect notice.
  • Not bringing a full month of income proof for everyone in the home.

What to Do if This Doesn’t Work

Housing Help in Rural Tennessee

Start Here

Income Limits

  • Section 8 vouchers target households at or below 50% of Area Median Income (AMI), with priority for extremely low income (30% AMI). AMI varies by county.
  • Check your county’s current limits using HUD FY 2025 Income Limits tool.

Timelines and Reality Check

  • Many rural PHAs have long waitlists; some open briefly. Sign up for alerts and apply to multiple nearby PHAs if permitted.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not updating contact info—missed mail can cause removal from a list.
  • Missing the application window—follow each PHA’s Facebook/website for opening notices.

What to Do if This Doesn’t Work

Child Support Services (TDHS)

What You Can Get

  • Help establishing paternity, locating the other parent, setting and enforcing child support orders, and modifying orders when income changes.

How to Apply

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not reporting updated addresses for the other parent.
  • Not attending hearings—ask the office how to appear by phone if travel is hard.

What to Do if This Doesn’t Work

  • Ask for a review and adjustment if your income dropped.
  • Contact legal aid for help if your case is complex or safety is a concern.

Transportation in Rural Areas

Key Options

  • Tennessee Public Transportation Association directory: Find rural transit providers and demand-response rides via TPTA statewide transit links.
  • Non-emergency medical transportation (if on TennCare): Request rides through your TennCare plan. See TennCare transportation benefits.
  • Local human service agencies often provide gas vouchers or shuttle rides for work/school—ask through 211.

What to Do if This Doesn’t Work

  • Coordinate with your child care provider for adjusted hours.
  • Ask your employer about schedule changes while you stabilize transportation.

Food Beyond SNAP and WIC

Education and Training

  • Tennessee Reconnect (free tuition for eligible adults): TN Reconnect information
  • Workforce programs (WIOA): Training and supportive services via Jobs4TN and LWDA contacts.
  • TDHS work activities for Families First: Coordinated by your case manager—ask about transportation and child care supports.

Healthcare Clinics and Mental Health

Important Tables

Table: Quick Program Snapshot for Rural Tennessee Single-Mom Households

Program Typical Eligibility Basis Key Benefit/Limit Where to Apply
SNAP ≤130% FPL gross, ≤100% net; assets rules Max benefit varies by HH size; asset limit $2,750 Apply via One DHS portal
WIC ≤185% FPL or adjunct eligibility Monthly food package + CVB Find WIC clinic
Families First (TANF) State need standard Monthly cash benefit + work supports Families First program page
TennCare/CoverKids Category + income % FPL Full health coverage; CHIP premiums may apply Apply for TennCare/CoverKids
LIHEAP ≤150% FPL (typical) Payment toward energy bill Find LIHEAP provider
Housing Choice Voucher ≤50% AMI Rent subsidy TN PHA directory

Table: 2025 FPL-Based Monthly Income Caps (Selected)

% of FPL 2-Person 3-Person 4-Person 5-Person
100% $1,810 $2,280 $2,750 $3,220
130% $2,353 $2,964 $3,575 $4,186
150% $2,715 $3,420 $4,125 $4,830
185% $3,349 $4,218 $5,087 $5,956
200% $3,620 $4,560 $5,500 $6,440

Source: 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines.

Table: Documents You’ll Commonly Need

Area Documents
Identity State ID/driver’s license, birth certificates, SSNs (if available)
Residency Lease, utility bill, mail with your name/address
Income Last 30 days of pay stubs, child support statements, unemployment notices
Expenses Rent/mortgage receipts, utilities, child care receipts
Special Pregnancy verification (WIC/Medicaid), proof of school enrollment (child care subsidy)

Table: Typical Timelines

Program Expedited Path Standard Processing
SNAP 3–7 days for households with very little income/resources Up to 30 days
WIC Same-day/within a few days if clinic has appointments 1–2 weeks
Families First N/A Up to 30 days
TennCare/CoverKids Faster for pregnant applicants in some cases Varies; respond to requests quickly
LIHEAP Crisis processing for disconnect/low fuel 2–4 weeks
Housing N/A Waitlists can be months–years

Note: Always check your notice for exact deadlines.

Local Organizations, Charities, and Faith-Based Help

These statewide directories help you locate local support in your county:

Tip: Call early in the week and morning hours. Funds are often first-come, first-served.

Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips

  • Expect documents to be requested more than once: Keep digital copies on your phone or email.
  • Transportation is a barrier in rural counties: Ask for phone interviews, mail-in options, or telehealth where available.
  • Watch deadlines: Most programs set 10–15 day windows for verifications—ask for more time if needed.
  • Speak up about safety: If you have a protective order or safety concern, ask for address confidentiality options when you apply.

Application Checklist

Use this to prepare one folder per program:

  • Photo ID, SSNs, birth certificates.
  • Proof of Tennessee address (lease, utility bill).
  • Last 30 days of income (pay stubs, child support).
  • Expense proofs: rent/mortgage, utilities, child care.
  • School/training schedule (for child care assistance).
  • Pregnancy verification (for WIC/TennCare pregnancy coverage).
  • Any notices from courts or agencies (child support, eviction).

Make scanned copies and store them in a secure cloud folder or email draft so you can re-upload quickly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not listing everyone in the household: This can reduce benefits.
  • Ignoring mail from DHS or TennCare: Open everything immediately.
  • Missing interviews: Call back the same day to reschedule.
  • Submitting photos of documents that are blurry: Use good lighting and flat surfaces.
  • Waiting to apply: You can apply even if some documents come later—ask what can be submitted after.

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Diverse Communities

What If You’re Denied? Appeal and Plan B

Frequently Asked Questions (Tennessee-Specific)

  • How fast can I get food help if I have no money this week: Ask for expedited SNAP. If eligible, benefits can arrive in 3–7 days. Apply at One DHS and call 833-772-8347 to confirm your interview.
  • Can I get WIC if I’m working: Yes, if you meet income limits (≤185% FPL) or are adjunct-eligible through SNAP/TennCare. Call 800-342-5942 or use the WIC clinic finder.
  • What if I don’t have child care yet for a new job: Apply for TDHS Child Care Payment Assistance and ask your employer for a start-date letter. See TDHS Child Care Payment Assistance.
  • Do I have to cooperate with child support to get TANF: Generally yes, unless you qualify for a good-cause exemption (safety/domestic violence). Ask your Families First caseworker.
  • Are there premiums for CoverKids: Some families have sliding-scale premiums. See current details on CoverKids eligibility and costs.
  • Can LIHEAP help with propane or wood heat: Yes, LIHEAP can assist with various fuels. Apply via THDA LIHEAP providers.
  • How do I find housing in a county with no big apartment complexes: Check HUD PHA directory and USDA Rural Development rental properties.
  • What proof do I need for SNAP child care deductions: Provide receipts, provider statements, or bank statements showing payments.
  • How long does Families First last: TANF has time limits; ask TDHS about your household’s count and available extensions. See Families First details.
  • Can I get help with internet for my kid’s school: Check the Affordable Connectivity Program transition resources and local providers’ low-income plans; also ask schools about hotspots.

What to Do if You’re Between Paychecks and Benefits Haven’t Started

  • Call 211 for immediate local food/utility help.
  • Ask your utility for a payment arrangement to avoid shutoff.
  • Talk to your landlord about a partial payment plan and show them your application receipts.
  • Visit your county health department for WIC and immunizations—no need to delay.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: Dedicated benefits researchers who verify against official Tennessee and federal sources.

Official sources used in this article include:

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

  • Information changes: Program rules, income limits, and benefit amounts may change. Always confirm details with the relevant agency links in this guide.
  • No legal advice: This content is general information, not legal or case-specific advice.
  • Security: For your privacy, avoid sharing full SSNs or account numbers over unsecured email or text. Use official portals linked here. Keep your device updated and use strong passwords.

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