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SNAP and Food Assistance for Single Mothers in Tennessee

SNAP in Tennessee: The No‑Nonsense 2025 Guide for Single Mothers

Last updated: August 2025

Use this guide to get through Tennessee SNAP quickly and with fewer headaches. It’s built on official state and federal sources and real-world steps that work in Tennessee counties.


Quick Help Box

What SNAP Covers in Tennessee (and What It Doesn’t)

Most important action: Decide what you can buy with EBT and plan your month.

  • You can buy: fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, poultry, dairy, breads, cereals, rice, pasta, pantry staples, snack foods, and non-alcoholic drinks. USDA SNAP Eligible Foods
  • You cannot buy: alcohol, tobacco, vitamins/supplements, hot prepared foods meant for immediate consumption, and non-food items like diapers, soap, or pet food. USDA SNAP Eligible Foods
  • Online buying in Tennessee: Major retailers (like Amazon and Walmart) and some regional grocers accept EBT for eligible food items. Delivery fees and tips are not covered by SNAP. Check the live list: USDA SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot retailers

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re short on food before approval, contact your local food bank. Use Feeding America’s locator and Tennessee networks below (see “Local Organizations” and “Resources by Region”).

Who Runs SNAP in Tennessee

Most important action: Use the official Tennessee DHS portal to apply and track your case.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If the portal is down, use paper forms from your local DHS office or call 1-833-772-8347 to ask about alternate submission (mail, fax, or in-person drop-off).

Eligibility Basics in Tennessee (2025)

Most important action: Use the official income tables for FY 2025 before applying.

  • Tennessee follows federal SNAP rules. Eligibility is based on household size, income, expenses, citizenship/immigration status, and work rules. See USDA SNAP Eligibility.
  • Income limits, deductions, and maximum benefit amounts change each October. For FY 2025 (effective October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025), use the official USDA data: USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA (official tables).
  • Households with a member who is elderly or has a disability have different deduction rules and may use net income tests. See USDA Elderly/Disabled SNAP guidance.
  • Work rules: Most adults 16–59 must register for work, accept suitable work, and not voluntarily quit without good cause. See USDA SNAP Work Requirements.
  • ABAWD time limit: Federal rules now cover many individuals aged 18–54 without dependents, unless exempt. Parents with a child under 18 in the household are exempt from the ABAWD time limit. See USDA ABAWD policy overview.
  • Immigration: Many lawful permanent residents qualify after meeting federal rules; U.S. citizen children may qualify even if a parent does not. SNAP is not counted under the current federal “public charge” policy. See USCIS Public Charge Resources and USDA SNAP for Non-Citizens.

Reality check:

  • Income and allowable deductions are the biggest swing factors. If you’re close to the limit, document your rent, utilities, child care, and child support payments. Those can reduce “net income” and raise your benefit.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you were told you’re “over income,” ask the caseworker to review deductions and shelter costs again. If still denied, you can appeal (see the “Appeals and Fair Hearings” section).

Income Limits and Benefit Amounts for FY 2025

Most important action: Check the official USDA FY 2025 tables and the TDHS SNAP page before you apply.

  • Federal income limits (gross and net), standard deductions, and maximum allotments update annually. For the current official figures, see: USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA and USDA SNAP Eligibility.
  • Tennessee adopts these federal updates beginning October 1 each year. TDHS SNAP overview: TDHS SNAP Overview
  • Maximum allotments are set by USDA and depend on household size. Households with little to no countable income receive the maximum; others receive the maximum minus 30% of their net income. See USDA SNAP benefit calculation.

Because these dollar figures change annually and mid-year corrections sometimes occur, always verify against the USDA FY 2025 tables linked above before you rely on a number.

Example: How SNAP is Calculated (Illustration Only)

This is an example to show the math. It is not your official amount.

Step Example (Single mom + 2 kids)
Monthly gross earnings $2,200
Subtract 20% earned income deduction $440
Adjusted income $1,760
Subtract standard deduction (FY 2025 – see USDA table) Use official amount from USDA FY 2025 COLA
Subtract child care paid to work Example: $300
Subtract excess shelter (rent + utilities per federal rules) Example: $350
Net income (after deductions) Calculate after using correct FY 2025 figures
Benefit = Max Allotment – 30% of net income Use USDA FY 2025 Max Allotment table

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your benefit seems too low, ask for a “budget review” and bring proof of child care, rent, utilities, and any out-of-pocket medical expenses for elderly/disabled members.

How to Apply (Online, In Person, By Mail)

Most important action: Apply online to timestamp your filing today if you can.

Method Where Best For Notes
Online One DHS Customer Portal Fastest start, upload docs Create an account, submit the SNAP application, and upload documents.
In person Find your local DHS office If you need in-person help or a paper form Ask if same-day interviews are available.
By mail/fax Call 1-833-772-8347 to request a paper application If internet access is limited Keep copies. Date-stamp your envelope at the post office if possible.

Typical timeline:

  • Your application date is the day DHS gets your form. Decisions usually take up to 30 days. If you qualify for expedited service, benefits should be issued within 7 days. See USDA SNAP processing timelines.
  • An interview (phone or in person) is required in most cases.
  • You’ll receive an EBT card by mail after approval.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t get through online, go to your local DHS office or call 1-833-772-8347 and say you want to file an application today. You can file with just your name, address, and signature to lock in your filing date—then provide the rest later.

Documents You’ll Likely Need

Most important action: Gather income and expense proof before your interview.

Category Examples of Proof
Identity Driver’s license, state ID, school ID, or other official photo ID
Residency Lease, mail with your name and address, or a statement from a shelter
Income Last 4–6 weeks of pay stubs, self-employment ledger, unemployment benefits letter
Expenses Lease, rent receipt, utility bills, child care receipts/contracts, court-ordered child support paid
Immigration Green card, work authorization, proof of qualified status (only for the person applying)
School/Student Class schedule, financial aid letter (if relevant for student rules)
Disability/Elderly medical costs Pharmacy receipts, doctor bills, insurance premiums

Reality check:

  • If you’re missing something, submit what you have. DHS must help you identify what else is needed.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t get a specific document, ask your caseworker about acceptable alternatives (employer letter, shelter statement, sworn statement). Put your request in writing via the portal or email if possible.

Expedited SNAP in Tennessee (7-Day Service)

Most important action: If you’re in crisis, ask for expedited processing.

You may qualify if any of these apply (federal rules):

  • Your monthly gross income is less than 150∗∗andyourliquidresourcesareunder∗∗150** and your liquid resources are under **100.
  • Your housing costs (rent/mortgage and utilities) are more than your gross monthly income plus liquid resources.
  • You are a migrant or seasonal farm worker with little or no income.

Official criteria: USDA Expedited SNAP

Reality check:

  • You still need an interview and identity proof, but DHS must issue benefits quickly if you qualify.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you believe you qualify but your case is delayed beyond 7 days, call 1-833-772-8347 and go to your local office with ID. Ask to speak to a supervisor about expedited processing.

Interviews, EBT Cards, and First Purchase

Most important action: Answer interview calls and check your mail.

  • Interviews: DHS usually conducts SNAP interviews by phone. If you miss the call, call back right away at 1-833-772-8347 and ask to reschedule.
  • EBT card: After approval, your EBT card is mailed. Delivery varies by county. If it doesn’t arrive within about 7–10 days after approval, call your local office or the general line 1-833-772-8347.
  • Using your card: Create your PIN by following the instructions that come with the card. To locate stores that accept EBT or to use online purchasing, see USDA SNAP Retailer Locator and Online Purchasing Pilot retailers.
  • Balance checks: Use the EBT portal/app listed in your welcome packet or call the EBT customer service number listed on the back of your card. (If you misplace the number, contact TDHS at 1-833-772-8347 or ask at your local DHS office.)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your EBT card is lost or stolen, call the EBT customer service number on the back of your card immediately to freeze and replace it, and notify TDHS at 1-833-772-8347.

How Benefits Are Calculated (Deductions That Matter)

Most important action: Report and document all deductible expenses.

Deductions that commonly increase your benefit:

  • 20% earned income deduction from gross earnings.
  • Standard deduction (varies by household size; use FY 2025 official table here: USDA FY 2025 COLA).
  • Child care and dependent care costs needed for work or training.
  • Child support paid to someone outside your household (court-ordered).
  • Medical expenses for elderly/disabled members over $35/month (net of reimbursements).
  • Excess shelter costs (rent/mortgage and utilities) above a threshold; a cap applies unless a household member is elderly/disabled.

Official calculation rules: USDA How Benefits Are Calculated

Reality check:

  • Many denials or low benefits happen because deductions weren’t fully counted. Keep receipts and bills updated and re-submit if something was missed.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask for a written “budget worksheet” from DHS showing each deduction used. If it’s wrong, request a correction or appeal.

Recertification and Reporting Changes

Most important action: Watch your mail, texts, and portal for deadlines.

  • Certification periods are typically 6–12 months depending on your situation. TDHS will notify you when it’s time to recertify. See TDHS SNAP Overview.
  • You must report certain changes by the deadline on your notice (often 10 days after the change). Examples: income changes, household members moving in/out, new address.
  • Report changes through the One DHS portal or by calling 1-833-772-8347.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you missed a deadline and your case closed, reapply immediately online or at your local office. If you had good cause (e.g., hospitalization), ask for reinstatement.

Work Rules, ABAWD, and Exemptions in Tennessee

Most important action: If you’re a parent with a child under 18, tell your caseworker—you are exempt from the ABAWD time limit.

  • General work rules apply to most adults ages 16–59: register for work, accept suitable work, and don’t quit without good cause. USDA SNAP Work Requirements
  • ABAWD time limit applies to many adults 18–54 without dependents and without exemptions. Exemptions include pregnancy, a documented disability, living with a child under 18, and others. USDA ABAWD policy overview
  • Tennessee may offer SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) services to help meet work rules. Check with TDHS: SNAP E&T in Tennessee (TDHS) and your local office.

Reality check:

  • Work rules can be confusing. If you’re juggling shifts and childcare, you may qualify for exemptions or good cause. Document everything.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re told you’re out of time-limited benefits, ask for an ABAWD exemption review. If denied, consider appealing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing the interview call. Keep your phone on and voicemail set up; call back same day to reschedule at 1-833-772-8347.
  • Not turning in proof of expenses. Rent, utilities, child care, and child support can significantly change your benefit.
  • Only reporting gross wages. Submit pay stubs showing taxes/withholdings and hours worked.
  • Ignoring mail from DHS. Notices often have short deadlines like 10 days.
  • Not asking for expedited service when you qualify. If you’re in crisis, say “I think I qualify for expedited SNAP.”
  • Forgetting to report changes. Missing a change deadline can cause overpayments or case closures.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you made a mistake, fix it fast. Upload missing documents and message your caseworker through the portal. If you get an overpayment notice you disagree with, request a hearing.

Real-World Examples (Tennessee)

  • You’re working retail in Memphis, hours vary, and your July utility bill doubled. Submit your July bill and a note explaining the spike. Shelter deductions can increase your SNAP for that period. See USDA calculation rules.
  • You just started a nursing assistant job in Nashville. In your first month, your pay stubs are thin. You can still apply now; DHS considers current income. Upload each new pay stub as you receive it.
  • Your teen in Knoxville started after-school care so you could take extra shifts. Provide the child care receipt/contract. Child care costs reduce your countable income, often increasing your benefit.
  • You moved from Chattanooga to a cheaper apartment but lost mail for two weeks. If you missed recertification, reapply immediately online and go to the local office to explain. Ask for help protecting your filing date.
  • You’re a U.S. citizen mom and your spouse is not; your kids are U.S. citizens. You can apply for the kids. DHS must only ask immigration questions for those applying. See USDA SNAP for Non-Citizens.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your situation is messy or mixed-status, ask DHS for a supervisor callback and keep all communication in writing when possible.

Key Contacts and Where to Go

Need Contact
Apply online One DHS Customer Portal (SNAP application)
Find local office Find your local Tennessee DHS office
General help/Status/Interview 1-833-772-8347 (TDHS)
Program rules TDHS SNAP Overview
Retailers and online EBT USDA SNAP Retailer Locator and Online Purchasing Pilot
Federal eligibility, income, and benefit tables USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA and USDA SNAP Eligibility

Application-to-EBT Timeline (What to Expect)

Stage What Happens Typical Timeframe
File application Submit online or at local office Same day filing date
Interview Phone or in person Usually within a few days
Decision Approval/denial notice Up to 30 days standard
Expedited cases If you qualify, benefits issued fast Within 7 days
EBT card arrival Mailed to your address About 7–10 days after approval

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re past the 30-day mark without a decision, call 1-833-772-8347 and visit your local office with ID and your application copy.

City-Specific FAQs (Tennessee)

Nashville (Davidson County)

Memphis (Shelby County)

Knoxville (Knox County)

Chattanooga (Hamilton County)

Clarksville (Montgomery County)

Local Organizations, Charities, and Support (Tennessee)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If a pantry is out of stock, ask for a “referral list” and call 211 for another location the same day.

Diverse Communities: What You Should Know

LGBTQ+ single mothers

  • Tennessee DHS must serve you without discrimination. Ask for language or accessibility help at 1-833-772-8347. If you face discrimination, you can file a civil rights complaint: USDA SNAP Civil Rights.

Single mothers with disabilities or raising disabled children

  • Document out-of-pocket medical expenses over $35/month for elderly/disabled members to increase deductions. See USDA elderly/disabled rules.
  • For accessibility, ask TDHS for reasonable accommodations at 1-833-772-8347. Tennessee Relay: 711.

Veteran single mothers

  • SNAP can be used even if you receive VA benefits if you still meet SNAP financial rules. See USDA SNAP Eligibility. For added support, contact your VA social worker.

Immigrant/refugee single moms

Tribal-specific resources

  • If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe and recently moved to Tennessee, you still use Tennessee DHS for SNAP. If you previously received benefits through a tribal organization in another state, bring your paperwork when you apply in Tennessee. See general federal guidance: USDA SNAP.

Rural single moms with limited access

  • Apply online or call 1-833-772-8347 to request mail-in options. Use the USDA Retailer Locator to find EBT stores and consider online EBT if available in your area.
  • Nutrition education and budgeting help: UT Extension SNAP‑Ed (TNCEP). Find your local office: UT Extension.

Single fathers

  • SNAP eligibility is based on household composition and income, not gender. Single fathers follow the same rules; apply via One DHS Customer Portal.

Language access

  • TDHS provides interpreter services at 1-833-772-8347. You have a right to a free interpreter and translated notices. Civil rights info: USDA SNAP Civil Rights.

“What If I’m Denied?” Appeals and Fair Hearings

Most important action: Read the denial letter and file your appeal on time.

  • You typically have 90 days from the date of the SNAP action to request a fair hearing. See federal guidance: USDA SNAP appeal rights.
  • To appeal in Tennessee: Contact TDHS via your local office or call 1-833-772-8347 to ask how to submit a hearing request (online, mail, or in person). Use the office locator: TDHS Office Locations.
  • Keep your benefits during the appeal (if you’re already receiving SNAP) by requesting “aid continuing” before the deadline listed on your notice.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

SNAP + Other Supports That Often Help Together

Most important action: Don’t leave money on the table—apply for related programs.

  • WIC for pregnant/postpartum moms and children under 5: TN WIC (TDH). WIC can free up your SNAP by covering formula and specific foods.
  • School meals and Summer meal programs: Contact your child’s school or district. Federal program info: USDA Child Nutrition Programs.
  • TANF cash assistance (Families First): If you need cash aid and work support, check TDHS Families First.
  • Child care payment assistance: TDHS Child Care Payment Assistance.
  • LIHEAP energy help: Apply through your local agency; program overview at U.S. HHS LIHEAP and check Tennessee local providers via 211.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re stuck, call 211 and ask for a “benefits screening” to identify every program you may qualify for.

Resources by Region (Tennessee)

Middle Tennessee

West Tennessee

East Tennessee

Southeast Tennessee

Statewide

Quick Tables You Can Use

Table: Fast Ways to Apply and Get Help

Action Where Notes
Apply now (online) One DHS Customer Portal Fastest and lets you upload documents
Find local office TDHS Office Locator Ask about same-day help and document drop-off
Call for help 1-833-772-8347 (TDHS) Interview scheduling, status updates
Expedited SNAP rules USDA Expedited Service If you qualify, benefits within 7 days
Income/benefit tables USDA FY 2025 COLA Use official FY 2025 figures

Table: Document Checklist by Situation

Situation Must-Haves
Working for wages ID, last 4–6 pay stubs, lease, utilities, child care receipts, child support paid
Self-employed ID, monthly income/expense ledger, 1099s if available, lease, utilities
Recently unemployed ID, separation notice or last pay stub, unemployment letter if filed
Homeless or staying with friends ID, statement from shelter or person you stay with, any mail with your name
Mixed immigration status Only provide immigration documents for those applying; list others as non-applicants

Table: Timeline and Deadlines

Step Deadline/Time
Standard processing Up to 30 days
Expedited cases Within 7 days
Appeal window (SNAP) Generally 90 days from action
Report changes Typically within 10 days of change (see your notice)

Table: Deductions That May Increase Your SNAP

Deduction Why It Matters
20% earned income deduction Lowers countable income
Standard deduction Varies by household size; reduces net income
Dependent care/child care costs Work-related care reduces countable income
Court-ordered child support paid Subtracted before net income
Medical costs > $35/month (elderly/disabled) Can significantly reduce net income
Excess shelter Rent + utilities beyond a threshold (cap applies unless elderly/disabled)

Table: Plan B Options if You’re Waiting

Need Where to Go
Food while waiting Local food bank (see region lists), 211
Budget stretch SNAP-Ed through UT Extension
Child care to keep working TDHS Child Care Payment Assistance
Utility help LIHEAP via local agencies; call 211
Rent concerns City/county assistance programs via 211

“What to Do If This Doesn’t Work” — One-Page Recap

  • Call TDHS at 1-833-772-8347 and request a supervisor callback.
  • Visit your local DHS office with your ID, application copy, and any missing documents: TDHS Office Locator.
  • Ask for expedited SNAP if you have very low income and resources or high shelter costs.
  • Request a budget review if deductions weren’t counted.
  • File an appeal within 90 days if denied and you disagree. Keep copies of everything.
  • While waiting, use food banks, 211, and SNAP-Ed resources listed above.

Source List (Verified and Dated)

Note: Always confirm the latest FY 2025 income limits and maximum allotments via the USDA FY 2025 links above, as figures change annually and mid-year updates can occur.

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 August 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 48 hours.

Disclaimer

Program rules, dollar amounts, timelines, and contact details can change. This guide is for general information only. Always verify eligibility, benefit amounts, and requirements with Tennessee DHS or USDA before you act on them. Use the official links in this guide for the most current information.

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