State Resources and Programs

When disaster strikes in Tennessee, survivors may face challenges ranging from financial strain and job loss to housing damage and access to essential services. To support individuals and families during recovery, Tennessee offers a variety of state-level programs and resources designed to help you rebuild and regain stability. However, these resources are not always available for every disaster, even when a federal disaster declaration is issued. Program availability can depend on eligibility requirements, the type and scope of the disaster, and decisions made by federal and state agencies. This page outlines many of the key state programs that may be activated after a disaster, helping you understand where to turn for assistance when it becomes available.

State Resources and Programs

Tennessee Office of the Attorney General

If you have experienced a scam or have seen price gouging following a disaster, please fill out an online consumer affairs complaint form through the Office of the Attorney General.

  • Scam Prevention: Information to help survivors avoid fraud and deceptive business practices after disasters.
  • Price Gouging Enforcement: Guidance on reporting suspected price gouging during emergencies.

Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance

  • Consumer Disaster Recovery Resources: Resources including information on damaged vehicles, how to avoid scammers, how to file with insurance, and more, for consumers to be able to focus on recovery and rebuilding. 

Tennessee Department of Health

Tennessee Disaster Support Network 

  • A web-based resource network that supports individuals and communities before, during, and after disasters.
  • Focuses on at-risk populations, including older adults, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers.
  • Includes contact information and support links to help residents through all phases of a disaster.

Tennessee Department of Human Services

Disaster & Emergency Assistance

  • Replacement SNAP Benefits: For SNAP households that lose food due to power outages or disaster-related causes.
  • Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP): Temporary food assistance available in certain federally declared disasters.
  • Hot Foods Waiver: Allows SNAP benefits to be used for purchasing prepared or hot foods during specific disaster periods.
  • One-Time Emergency Cash Assistance: May be available to qualifying families following a federally declared disaster.

Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development

Legal Aid & Consumer Protection Resources

  • The Tennessee Bar Association and partner legal organizations offer free or low-cost legal assistance for disaster survivors, including help with property damage, insurance claims, and landlord/tenant issues.
  • Survivors in federally declared disaster counties may access a legal aid hotline for disaster-related assistance.

Tennessee Department of Revenue

  • Sales Tax Refund Program: Available for survivors of federally declared disasters who received FEMA Individual Assistance.

Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT)

  • SmartWay Roadway Information: Offers real-time traffic conditions, road closures, and hazard alerts, especially helpful when disasters impact transportation routes.