Federal Government Shutdown

Because of the federal government shutdown, the Tennessee Department of Human Services cannot send out Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)  or food stamp benefits for November. SNAP is paid for by the federal government.

TDHS is watching the situation closely and will update this web page when there is new information.

Download and share this flyer on the federal shutdown, SNAP, and local resources.

Current SNAP Households 

Benefits for October were sent out as usual.  If the shutdown continues, benefits for November will not be available on your EBT card.

Please note: You can still use any leftover or unused benefits on your EBT card after October.

SNAP Applicants

TDHS will keep accepting and processing SNAP applications, but no new benefits will be sent after October 31^st until the shutdown ends.

SNAP Renewals

If you got a letter to renew your SNAP, please continue to follow the steps to renew.

Quality Reviews

If you are contacted to do a Quality Control interview, please do it.

SNAP Employment and Training (SNAP E&T)

SNAP E&T services were stopped effective 5:00 PM CST, October 20, 2025, until the shutdown ends. If you are required, such as ABAWD SNAP recipients, you still must fulfill the work, volunteer or education requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I still use my EBT card after November 1?
Yes.  You can use any benefits on your card after November 1.

I applied for benefits and was scheduled for an interview. Do I still need to show up?
Yes, SNAP interviews will continue in November, but you will not get the benefits for November until after the shutdown ends. It is important that you complete the process.

I received a SNAP renewal packet. Do I still need to fill it out and return it?
Yes, TDHS will continue to accept and process SNAP renewals.

If I get SNAP each month, will I have to reapply for SNAP benefits once the government shutdown is over?
No. There is no need to reapply for benefits if you regularly receive benefits.

I received a notice that I was approved for SNAP benefits. Will I receive those benefits?
You will not get the November benefits until the shutdown ends. 

Are Families First benefits impacted?
No. Families First benefits are not impacted.

I need help with food, where can I go?
Tennessee area food banks and community organizations are getting ready to help. For more information, visit our Community Resources page at https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/information-and-resources/tdhs-resource-library/community-resources.html

Questions about your benefits?

Please note: TDHS staff won’t have information on SNAP benefits beyond October.

As new information becomes available, this page will be updated.

(Last Updated October 31, 2025)