Understanding how to apply for Medicaid in TN is the first step to accessing critical healthcare services for yourself or your family. No matter if you apply online, over the phone, face-to-face, or by mailing in your forms, Medicaid gives you the freedom to pick the method that suits your situation best.
This guide covers everything you need to know about eligibility, required documents, and available benefits, including how to request free phone assistance through Medicaid.
1. How to Apply for Medicaid in TN?
If you are a resident of Tennessee and want to know how to apply for Medicaid in Tennessee, the official Tennessee Medicaid program offers several application methods to make the process accessible and straightforward.
Whether you prefer applying online, over the phone, in person, or by mail, understanding how to get Medicaid in Tennessee will help you choose the best option. Below is a detailed guide on each method.
Apply online via TennCare connect
TennCare is Tennessee’s Medicaid program, launched in 1994. Unlike traditional Medicaid, TennCare operates as a managed care program, aiming to control costs while improving service quality.
It provides health coverage to eligible low-income individuals, including children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities.
One of the most efficient ways to get Tennessee Medicaid is by applying online through TennCare Connect. This portal allows you to:
- Create an account and submit your Medicaid Tennessee application online
- Check your application status
- Update your personal information or upload documents
- Receive notifications regarding your application
Applying online is often the quickest and most convenient way, giving you full control over your submission and tracking process.
Apply by phone: Tennessee Medicaid phone number
If you would like additional assistance while applying online, you can call the Tennessee Medicaid phone number at 1‑855‑259‑0701 during business hours.
A representative will guide you through the application process and make sure you understand how to claim Medicaid Tennessee correctly.
Apply in person or by mail
For those who prefer face-to-face support or do not have access to online services, you can submit your application directly at Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) offices or send it by mail.
This method is helpful if you want personalized assistance based on your individual situation.
So, what is the easiest way to apply for Medicaid in Tennessee?
If you’re looking for the most convenient option, applying online through TennCare Connect is highly recommended. It saves time, gives you full control over your documents, and helps you avoid waiting lines or mailing delays.
2. How Can You Qualify for Medicaid in Tennessee?
Tennessee Medicaid eligibility
To qualify for Medicaid in Tennessee, you must meet the following income requirements. Medicaid Tennessee categorizes applicants into specific groups based on income limits, measured by the Federal Poverty Level (FPL):
- Parents or guardians with dependent children: Income at or below 105% of the FPL (approximately $1,305/month for individuals; $1,763/month for a two-person household)
- Pregnant women and infants under 1 year old: Income at or below 200% of the FPL
- Families with children aged 1–5 years: Income at or below 147% of the FPL
- Families with children aged 6–18 years: Income at or below 138% of the FPL
Additionally, the TennCare CHOICES program, designed for elderly individuals or those with disabilities, requires applicants to meet specific income and asset limits as defined by the state.
(*) Special groups
- Pregnant women & infants: Pregnant women are counted as a two-person household. Coverage is extended up to 12 months after childbirth.
- Children under 21: Multiple categories of children are eligible under Medicaid or TennCare Standard, with income limits ranging between 138% and 211% of the FPL.
- People with disabilities & SSI recipients: Automatically eligible if receiving SSI benefits. Income limits may not apply for individuals requiring long-term care services.
Does Tennessee offer Medicaid for adults without children?
The answer is no. Tennessee has not expanded Medicaid coverage to low-income adults without dependent children under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). It remains among the few states that have not extended Medicaid to childless adults.
Therefore, unless you fall into a qualifying category, such as a child, pregnant woman, parent, senior, individual with a disability, or SSI recipient, you are not eligible for Medicaid in Tennessee.
What documentation is required for Medicaid in Tennessee?
After confirming you meet both income and eligibility group requirements, it’s time to gather the necessary paperwork for your TennCare submission.
Personal identification & household information:
- Social Security Numbers (SSNs) and dates of birth for all household members included in your application
- Proof of Tennessee residency (e.g., utility bills, rental agreements)
- Identification documents (state-issued ID, passport, birth certificate)
Proof of income:
- Pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements
- W-2 forms, 1099 forms
- SSI/ASDI benefit statements
Assets & financial accounts:
- Bank statements, savings account records
- Documentation proving your asset ownership, such as property titles or vehicle registration papers.
Medical records (if applicable):
Copies of medical documents confirming a disability or need for long-term care (e.g., CHOICES program assessments, SSI determinations)
TennCare may request additional documents after you submit your application. Be sure to keep copies of fax confirmations or mailing receipts and closely monitor any notifications or letters about your application status.
3. How to get a free phone with Medicaid in Tennessee
If you qualify for Medicaid in Tennessee, you may also be eligible to receive a free phone with Medicaid from a service provider through the Lifeline Program.
Overview of the free phone program in Tennessee
The Lifeline program, a nationwide support effort, is overseen by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to assist eligible individuals.
Its primary goal is to help low-income consumers access free or discounted phone and internet services. In Tennessee, individuals who qualify for Medicaid are often automatically eligible for the Lifeline program.
The Lifeline program offers:
- Through Lifeline, qualified low-income households can save up to $9.25 per month on phone or internet bills, and those residing on Tribal lands may receive discounts as high as $34.25 each month.
- Access to free phones or SIM cards with service plans that include unlimited talk and text from participating providers
How to apply for a free phone with Medicaid?
If you’re enrolled in Tennessee Medicaid, applying for a free phone through Lifeline is a simple process:
Step 1: Check your eligibility
Make sure you are currently receiving Medicaid benefits. If you are not enrolled in Medicaid, you may still qualify if you meet other income requirements or participate in other government assistance programs.
Step 2: Prepare the required documents
Gather all necessary documents before applying. Ensure they are clear, valid, and issued by authorized agencies to speed up the application process.
Step 3: Choose a service provider
Once your eligibility is confirmed, select a Lifeline provider operating in Tennessee and complete their registration process to receive your free phone or discounted service.
Tennessee is served by several Lifeline providers, each offering different service plans, phone models, and options. Among them, AirTalk Wireless stands out as one of the top choices for Tennessee residents seeking a free phone with Medicaid.
Known for its generous Lifeline offers, AirTalk Wireless is highly favored by many Medicaid participants for several reasons:
- Free phones from leading brands: AirTalk often provides free smartphones from top brands like Samsung and Apple.
- Competitive monthly plans: Enjoy free talk, text, and data with nationwide coverage.
- Easy online registration: Conveniently apply through AirTalk’s official website and track your application status at any time.
- Reliable customer support: AirTalk is known for its quick response service, assisting users with Lifeline applications and device-related inquiries.
If you are looking for a reliable provider with attractive phone options and a user-friendly service experience, AirTalk Wireless is one of the best choices for a free phone in Tennessee.
Step 4: Complete the application and submit
After selecting from a reputable provider, complete your application through their official website.
- Enter your ZIP Code corresponding to your area of residence (Tennessee ZIP Codes range from 37010 to 38589).
- Choose a Lifeline plan and device that fits your needs and preferences.
- Fill out all the required information on the application form.
- Carefully review all details before submitting your application.
- Check the approval status and order progress through the provider’s online application portal.
- Your device may be shipped to you within 3–5 business days after your application is approved.
Final Words
We hope all the information provided above has helped you gain a clearer understanding of how to apply for Medicaid in TN.
In addition to essential healthcare services, eligible residents may also enjoy extra benefits such as free phone offers through the Lifeline Program. Apply today to ensure your family has access to the vital care and communication tools they need.