Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I apply for Food Stamp benefits?

A: To apply for SNAP (Food Stamps) and/or Families First (TANF), you may submit your application online or access a printable version of the application: EnglishSpanishArabicSomali.  Print and sign the application and fax, mail, or bring it to a local DHS county office for us to process.


Q: How do I get a replacement EBT card if it is lost or will not scan?

A: Contact the EBT Customer Service at 1-888-997-9444​.


Q: How do I transfer benefits from one state to another?

A: You will first have to close your case in the state where you currently live. Then, to open a case in Tennessee, you will need to fill out an application.


Click here for other family assistance frequently asked questions.

Q: How do I apply for child support services?

A: You may apply for services by completing an Application for Child Support Services:  Application for Services (English)  | Application for Services (Spanish)  Once completed, you should mail the application to your local child support office.

Click HERE for other child support program frequently asked questions.

Q: How do I apply for child care assistance?

A: To apply for the service, contact the local Department of Human Services office.  Click HERE for office locations.


Q: How do I locate a child care provider in my neighborhood? 

A: Use the Find Child Care Provider Map to locate a provider in your neighborhood.


Q: How do I report or file a complaint against a child care agency?

A: Call the Child Care Complaint Hotline at 1-800-462-8261.


Q: How do apply for a child care license? 

A: Contact a local Child Care Licensing Office to become a licensed child care agency.


Q: How do I know if I need an adult day care license?

A: Tennessee law requires that any Adult Day Care/Adult Day Services program caring for 10 or more clients be licensed by the Department of Human Services.


Q: How do I apply for an adult day care license? 

A: For information on becoming a licensed Adult Day Care provider, please contact the local Adult Care Licensing Office.


Q: How do I report elder abuse?

A: To report abuse and neglect, call toll free 1-888-APS-TENN (1-888-277-8366) or use the secure website: https://reportadultabuse.dhs.tn.gov/

Q: How do I make a referral for vocational rehabilitation services?

A: An individual with a disability may apply directly to Vocational Rehabilitation or may be referred by another individual or agency. A referral may be made by contacting a Vocational Rehabilitation office in person, by US postal, or by telephone.


Q: How do I find out the status of my disability claim?

A: For a status on a pending disability claim, please contact Disability Determination Services' customer service line at 1-800-342-1111(toll free, in TN); TTY (615) 253-1510; or, TTY: (Long Distance) 1-877-210-0008​.

Q: How do I anonymously report someone for fraudulently receiving benefits?

A: Report Fraud


Q: How do I report child abuse?

A: You will need to contact the Department of Children's Services.

More Frequently Asked Questions