Tennessee SNAP

Tennessee SNAP helps supplement the monthly food budgets of eligible individuals and families so they can afford nutritious food and maintain a healthier diet.

SNAP primarily serves children, older adults, people with disabilities, and low-income working or unemployed households that may struggle to afford enough food.

Able-bodied SNAP recipients ages 18—64 without dependents are subject to a three-month limit on benefits within a 36-month period unless they meet the work requirement of at least 80 hours per month. ¹

FAQ

Who is eligible for SNAP in Tennessee?

In order to qualify for SNAP, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Live in Tennessee
Be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident
Show proof of identity
Meet income limits and other financial eligibility rules ²
Have less than $3,000 in resources or $4,750 if at least one member is elderly or disabled

How much are SNAP benefits in Tennessee?

For the period through September 30, 2027, a family of three may receive up to $808 per month with no income or about $508 per month if the family has a net monthly income of $1,000.

Household Size	SNAP Benefits
1	$306
2	$562
3	$808
4	$1,023
5	$1,217
6	$1,463
7	$1,616
8	$1,841

The actual SNAP benefit amounts are based on a household’s net income with a general rule that an increase of $100 in net income results in a reduction of $30 in benefits. Use our SNAP calculator to estimate the amount of benefits you can expect to receive.

What is the income limit for food stamps in Tennessee?

Most families in Tennessee with gross income up to 130% of the federal poverty level, about $2,960 per month for a family of three, may qualify for food stamps.

Household Size	100%Net Income	130%Gross Income
1	$1,330	$1,729
2	$1,803	$2,344
3	$2,277	$2,960
4	$2,750	$3,575
5	$3,223	$4,190
6	$3,697	$4,806
7	$4,170	$5,421
8	$4,643	$6,036

Effective October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027. Gross income limit applies to most households, except when at least one member is age 60 or older or receives disability income; in these cases, only the net income test applies.

Tennesseans, are you eligible for SNAP?

Find out if you may qualify and get an estimated amount of benefits you could receive.

How do I apply for food stamps in TN?

To apply for SNAP benefits, you can submit your application online through One DHS Customer Portal or in person the local DHS county office. ³

Tennessee Department of Human Services
Family Assistance Customer Service
(866) 311-4287

What documents do I need for SNAP in Tennessee?

When you apply for SNAP, you may be asked to provide the following documents:

A valid photo ID
A valid Social Security Number
Proof of residency (where you live)
Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status
Proof of earned and unearned income
Proof of resources or assets (if applicable)
Any additional documents needed to verify your household’s situation

How do I check the status of my food stamp application in TN?

If you’ve already submitted your application, you can check the status of your case with CaseConnect . If you do not already have an account, please create one.

Sources & notes

Data and figures on this page come from the sources and notes below:

Important information on SNAP changes for Able-Bodied Adults without Dependents ↩
To see if you might be eligible, click here for the most current income limits. ↩
Please select your county from the directory here . ↩