How to Apply for TennCare

Apply Online

Tip: Applying through healthcare.gov checks both TennCare and marketplace eligibility at the same time.

Have your documents ready before you call (the call usually takes 30-45 minutes)
Call TennCare Connect: 1-855-259-0701 (available Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM CT)
A representative will walk you through the application over the phone

Tip: Phone wait times are shorter early in the morning and mid-week. Avoid Monday mornings.

Download the application from tenncare.tn.gov
Fill it out completely — incomplete applications cause delays
Make copies of all your documents (keep originals)
Mail to: TennCare Connect, P.O. Box 305240, Nashville, TN 37230-5240 (send by certified mail so you have proof of mailing date)

Tip: Your coverage start date is based on when they receive your application, so apply as soon as possible.

Find your local DHS office at tn.gov/humanservices
Bring all required documents with you
Visit the office and a caseworker will help you fill out the application (you can ask questions face-to-face)

Tip: Arrive early — DHS offices can get busy. Bring something to read while you wait.

Gather these before you apply:

Photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
Social Security card or number for everyone on the application
Proof of Tennessee residency (utility bill, lease, or mail with your address)
Proof of U.S. citizenship or immigration status (birth certificate, passport, or immigration documents)
Proof of income for everyone in the household (pay stubs, tax return, Social Security statement, employer letter)
Bank statements (checking and savings) for the past 30 days

Leaving fields blank — answer every question, even if the answer is zero or 'none'
Not reporting all household members — include everyone who lives with you
Forgetting to sign and date the application
Not reporting all sources of income (including child support, Social Security, etc.)
Sending original documents instead of copies (you may not get them back)
Not responding to requests for additional information within the deadline
Missing your renewal deadline (TennCare must be renewed annually)

TennCare has 45 days to process your application (90 days if disability is being determined). You will receive a letter with the decision.

You will receive a confirmation that your application was received
TennCare may contact you for additional information — respond promptly
A decision letter will arrive by mail within 45 days
If approved, you will receive a TennCare member card
You will need to choose a managed care organization (MCO): BlueCare, Amerigroup, or UnitedHealthcare
Coverage may be retroactive to your application date or up to 3 months prior

A denial is not the end. You have the right to appeal.

Read the denial letter carefully — it explains why you were denied and how to appeal
You have 30 days from the date of the denial letter to request an appeal
Call TennCare Connect to request an appeal: 1-855-259-0701
Or submit a written appeal to the address on the denial letter
Gather any additional documents that support your case
You can request a fair hearing where you present your case
Consider getting free legal help from Legal Aid of Tennessee: 1-844-383-2453
Tennessee Justice Center also helps with TennCare appeals: 615-255-0331

Use these free tools to make the application process easier.

Use our Document Organizer to track what you need and check off items as you gather them.

Check the Look-Back Period rules to understand if past transfers could affect your eligibility.

Calculate your assets to see what counts, what is exempt, and if you are under the limit.

Find your nearest DHS office to apply in person or get help with your application.

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