TennCare provides health care coverage to low-income children.
If you are a resident of Tennessee and need health care but cannot afford to pay for it, you may be eligible for TennCare, Tennessee's Medicaid program. Depending on your financial situation and the rules set by the state, you may qualify for free or low-cost health care. TennCare covers certain groups of Tennesseans with limited incomes and resources; some examples of covered groups include individuals under 21, pregnant women, Supplemental Security Income recipients and families with children. To be considered for free health care in Tennessee, submit an application to Tennessee's Department of Human Services.
Instructions
1. Use the office locator on the official DHS website to find the contact information of your local DHS office. DHS offices are located in each of Tennessee's 95 counties.
2. Obtain an application at the office or by calling the office and requesting that an application be mailed to you. Or download and print out an Application for Family Assistance Programs and Benefits from the DHS website.
3. Fill out the application as completely as you can. Expect to provide personal information about yourself and your family members. For example, you'll have to give DHS the Social Security Number and citizenship or other legal status of each person who is applying for health care benefits. You'll also need to enter information about each household member's income, resources (things you own, such as bank accounts) and household expenses.
4. Gather proof of your identity, citizenship or legal status, Tennessee residency, income and resources, so that DHS can verify the information on your application. DHS will notify you if further documentation or information is required. If you are not sure which forms of documentation are accepted by DHS, call 866-311-4287.
5. Mail, fax or bring your completed application to your local DHS office.
6. Wait 45 to 90 days to hear from DHS about whether you can get free health care through TennCare.
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