Welcome to BenefitKarma, Tennesseans!

If you’re new here, we want to connect you with information that will empower you and your loved ones on the benefits journey. We know government benefits, insurance, and healthcare can feel overwhelming — with legal jargon, paperwork, and deadlines — but BenefitKarma simplifies it all in easy-to-understand language. 

Our platform offers helpful tools, calculators, and educational resources so you can take control of your benefits journey at your own pace. The best way to stay informed is to sign up for BenefitKarma — it’s free, and you’ll get exclusive content and benefits updates straight to your inbox. 

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Wondering what’s available to you in Tennessee? Here’s a list that’ll give you a head start.

Health & Disability

1. TennCare (Tennessee Medicaid)
   TennCare provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible Tennessee residents, including children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities. Coverage includes doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, mental health care, and more. While Tennessee hasn’t expanded Medicaid to all low-income adults, those receiving SSI or meeting income and health criteria may still qualify. TennCare also includes 12 months of postpartum coverage for new moms. Learn more about how Medicaid works. 

2. CHOICES & Medicaid Waiver Programs
   The CHOICES program and other waiver services support Tennesseans who need long-term care. These programs help older adults and people with disabilities remain in their homes or live in the community rather than in nursing facilities. Services may include home care, transportation, and personal support. Eligibility is based on income, assets, and care needs.

3. Optional State Supplement (OSS)
   Tennessee’s OSS benefit offers extra monthly income to eligible elderly or disabled individuals living in assisted care homes. Most recipients also get SSI and TennCare. The OSS helps cover room and board costs not included in other benefits. To learn more about affordable senior housing options and how to find the right fit, visit our helpful guide: Affordable Senior Housing.

4. Disability Benefits (SSI/SSDI)
   Tennessee residents who are unable to work due to a disability may be eligible for SSI or SSDI. These programs offer monthly income and access to health coverage through TennCare (for SSI) or Medicare (for SSDI). Income limits and medical criteria apply. Discover how SSI can help you.

5. ABLE TN Savings Program
   ABLE TN lets eligible individuals with disabilities save money for education, housing, or other needs without losing access to SSI or TennCare. Funds grow tax-free and don’t count against benefit limits.

Nutritional & Food Assistance

1. SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
   SNAP helps eligible Tennesseans buy groceries each month using an EBT card. Benefits are based on income, household size, and expenses — for example, a family of four could receive over $900 per month. SNAP can be used at grocery stores and participating farmers’ markets for fresh food, pantry staples, and more. Discover how to apply for SNAP.

2. WIC (Women, Infants & Children)
   WIC provides free healthy foods, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support for pregnant women, new moms, infants, and kids under age 5. Families also receive vouchers for milk, whole grains, fruits, veggies, and infant formula. Income limits apply, but many working families still qualify. Check if your family is eligible for WIC.

3. School Meals (Breakfast & Lunch Programs)
   Tennessee public schools offer free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch for students who meet income guidelines. Meals follow strict nutrition standards and help ensure kids are ready to learn. Some schools even provide free meals to all students, regardless of income. Find out if your child qualifies for the Federal School Breakfast Program.

4. Emergency Food Assistance (TEFAP & Food Banks)
   Through The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), local food banks and community partners distribute free groceries to low-income families across Tennessee. Items may include canned goods, produce, frozen meat, and shelf-stable staples. No ongoing enrollment is required for many programs. Explore how free food assistance can support your family. 

Income & Employment

1. Families First (TANF – Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
   Families First provides cash assistance to low-income families with children. In addition to monthly payments, the program offers job training, education support, and help finding employment. A family of three might receive around $300/month, depending on income. The goal is to help families become financially self-sufficient over time. Learn how Families First works and how to apply: TANF benefits.

2. Unemployment Insurance (Tennessee Reemployment Assistance)
   If you’ve lost your job through no fault of your own, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits. These weekly payments help cover expenses while you search for new work. Benefit amounts vary based on previous wages, and you must meet certain work history and job search requirements. Check your eligibility for unemployment benefits. 

3. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
   SSI offers monthly payments to elderly, blind, or disabled individuals with limited income and resources. In 2025, the maximum benefit is around $967/month for individuals. SSI recipients in Tennessee also automatically receive TennCare health coverage and may qualify for programs like SNAP and Section 8 housing. 

4. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
   SSDI provides income to people who can’t work due to a long-term disability and have a qualifying work history. After two years on SSDI, recipients become eligible for Medicare. SSDI amounts are based on your earnings record.

Family & Education

1. Child Care Payment Assistance
   Tennessee’s Child Care Payment Assistance program helps eligible low-income families pay for licensed childcare while parents work, attend school, or complete job training. The state pays a portion of the cost directly to childcare providers, and families may have a small co-pay based on income. This support helps families stay employed while ensuring children receive safe, quality care. To learn more about tax credits and other ways to save on childcare costs, read the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit. 

2. Tennessee Promise & Reconnect Programs
   The Tennessee Promise offers two years of free tuition at community colleges and technical schools for eligible high school graduates. Adults returning to college may qualify for Tennessee Reconnect, which helps cover tuition costs at eligible institutions. These programs are part of the state’s push to make higher education more accessible for everyone.

3. HOPE Scholarships & Grants
   Funded by the state lottery, HOPE Scholarships provide financial aid to students attending eligible Tennessee colleges or universities. Awards are based on academic achievement and can significantly reduce out-of-pocket tuition costs. Additional grants are available for students with financial need or those in specific majors. Discover which grants and scholarships you qualify for and how to apply.

4. 529 Savings Plans & ABLE TN
   The TNStars 529 College Savings Plan helps families save for future education expenses like tuition, books, or housing — with tax-free growth. ABLE TN offers similar benefits for people with disabilities, allowing them to save for qualified expenses without impacting eligibility for TennCare or SSI.

Housing & Essentials

1. Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
   Tennessee participates in the federal Section 8 program, which helps low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities afford safe, decent housing. Eligible households receive vouchers to subsidize rent in privately owned homes or apartments. Because demand often exceeds supply, applying early and staying on waiting lists is important. Learn how to apply for Section 8 housing assistance and what to expect during the process.

2. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
   LIHEAP provides critical help paying heating and cooling bills for Tennessee households facing financial hardship. Assistance is income-based and varies depending on family size and need. This support helps families stay safe and comfortable during hot summers and cold winters. Find out if you qualify for LIHEAP and how to apply for energy bill assistance.

3. Weatherization Assistance Program
   Tennessee’s Weatherization program offers free home energy improvements like insulation, sealing leaks, and HVAC repairs to reduce utility bills and improve comfort. Available to eligible low-income homeowners and renters, this program helps families save money year-round. Discover how the weatherization programs works and find utility assistance options.

4. Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG)
   The ESG program offers emergency financial assistance to Tennesseans experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing housing. It can help cover rent, utilities, and related costs to stabilize living situations and prevent homelessness. Funds are distributed through local agencies across the state. Get help with emergency housing and utility assistance through ESG programs. 

Military & Veterans

1. Tennessee Veterans’ Services & Homes
   Tennessee offers a range of services for veterans, including long-term care facilities, financial support, and community programs through the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services. These resources are designed to improve veterans’ quality of life by providing access to healthcare, housing, and other essential supports tailored to their needs. Explore veteran housing assistance programs to find stable housing after service.  

2. Aid & Attendance / Housebound Benefits
   Disabled or elderly veterans and their surviving spouses may qualify for extra tax-free monthly stipends through the Aid & Attendance or Housebound programs. These benefits help cover the costs of daily care, personal assistance, or assisted living services, making it easier for veterans to maintain independence. Check your eligibility for Aid & Attendance benefits.

3. Property Tax Relief for Veterans
   Tennessee offers property tax exemptions for disabled veterans and surviving spouses, reducing the financial burden of homeownership. These exemptions help veterans keep their homes more affordable and provide peace of mind. Learn how to SAH Grant helps disabled veterans with specially adapted housing. 

4. Tennessee Military Family Relief Fund
   This fund provides short-term financial assistance to Tennessee military families facing hardship due to deployment, illness, or other service-related challenges. It helps cover essential expenses during difficult times so families can focus on what matters most. To learn how military families can save more money, including exclusive tax deductions available for service members, check out this helpful guide.