To sign up for Medicaid in Tennessee, you can apply online, by mail, or in person at your local Department of Human Services office. You’ll need to provide personal information like your name, address, and income, as well as information about your household members. You may also need to provide proof of income, identity, and citizenship. If you’re eligible, you’ll get a Medicaid card in the mail. Keep this card safe, as you’ll need to show it when you go to the doctor or pharmacy.
Medicaid in Tennessee
Medicaid is a joint state-federal health insurance program that provides coverage to people with limited income and resources. In Tennessee, Medicaid is administered by the Department of Health.
Eligibility Requirements for Medicaid in Tennessee
To be eligible for Medicaid in Tennessee, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a resident of Tennessee.
- Meet citizenship or immigration status requirements.
- Meet income and resource limits.
Income and Resource Limits for Medicaid in Tennessee
Your income and resources must fall within certain limits to qualify for Medicaid in Tennessee. The income limit is 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), and the resource limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples.
| Household Size | Income Limit | Resource Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,604 | $2,000 |
| 2 | $2,177 | $3,000 |
| 3 | $2,750 | $3,000 |
| 4 | $3,323 | $3,000 |
| 5 | $3,897 | $3,000 |
| 6 | $4,470 | $3,000 |
How to Apply for Medicaid in Tennessee
You can apply for Medicaid in Tennessee online, by mail, or in person at your local Department of Human Services office.
To apply online, visit the TennCare website at https://www.tncareconnect.tn.gov/.
To apply by mail, download an application at https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/health/documents/program_documents/tanf_medicaid/applications/Medicaid-Application-English.pdf and return it to the address provided on the application.
To apply in person, visit your local Department of Human Services office. Visit https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/find-an-office to find an office near you.
You will need to provide the following information when you apply for Medicaid:
- Your name, address, and contact information.
- Your Social Security number.
- Information about your income and resources.
- Proof of your citizenship or immigration status.
What Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Tennessee?
Medicaid in Tennessee covers a wide range of services, including:
- Doctor and hospital visits.
- Prescription drugs.
- Vision and dental care.
- Mental health and substance abuse treatment.
- Long-term care.
How to Find a Doctor Who Accepts Medicaid in Tennessee
You can find a doctor who accepts Medicaid in Tennessee by visiting the TennCare website at https://www.tncareconnect.tn.gov/.
You can also call the TennCare customer service line at 1-855-259-0969.
Steps for Enrolling in Medicaid in Tennessee
To enroll in Medicaid in Tennessee, individuals must complete an application and provide supporting documents. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply for Medicaid in Tennessee:
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Medicaid in Tennessee, individuals must meet certain eligibility criteria, including:
- Age: Children under 19, pregnant women, and adults aged 65 or older
- Income: Must meet income and resource limits set by the state
- Disability: Individuals with disabilities that meet Social Security Administration (SSA) criteria
- Family Status: Families with children who meet income and resource limits
Application Process
To apply for Medicaid in Tennessee, individuals can follow these steps:
- Gather Required Documents: Collect documents such as proof of income, proof of identity, Social Security number, proof of disability (if applicable), and proof of residency.
- Choose Application Method: Apply for Medicaid in Tennessee online at the COVERKids website or through paper application forms obtained from local Department of Human Services (DHS) offices.
- Complete Application: Provide accurate and complete information on the application form, including personal information, household income, and medical history.
- Submit Application: Once the application is completed, submit it to the local DHS office or mail it to the address provided on the application form.
Verification and Processing
The Tennessee Department of Human Services will review the application and supporting documents to verify eligibility. This process may include contacting applicants for additional information or requesting proof of eligibility. Processing times may vary depending on individual circumstances.
Determination of Eligibility
The DHS will determine Medicaid eligibility based on the information provided in the application and supporting documents. Individuals will receive a written notice informing them of the decision and any actions they need to take, such as providing additional documentation or attending an interview.
Notification of Approval or Denial
If approved for Medicaid, individuals will receive a Medicaid card with instructions on how to use it. If denied, individuals have the right to appeal the decision by contacting the DHS or following the instructions provided in the denial letter.
Ongoing Eligibility Reviews
Medicaid eligibility is subject to periodic reviews to ensure that individuals continue to meet eligibility criteria. Changes in income, household composition, or other factors may affect eligibility status.
| Toll-Free Number | Website | Local DHS Office Locator |
|---|---|---|
| 1-855-259-0002 | www.tn.gov/health/health-and-wellness/tenncare/program-information.html | www.tn.gov/humanservices/topic/county-offices |
Necessary Documents for Medicaid Application in Tennessee
When applying for Medicaid in Tennessee, you must provide specific documents to verify your identity, income, and eligibility. These documents must be submitted with your application to determine if you qualify for coverage.
The following is a list of necessary documents for Medicaid application in Tennessee:
- Proof of Identity:
- Driver’s license or state ID card
- Birth certificate
- Passport
- Social Security card
- Proof of Income:
- Pay stubs
- W-2s
- 1099s
- Self-employment income statements
- Social Security or disability benefits statements
- Proof of Residence:
- Utility bill
- Lease agreement
- Mortgage statement
- Proof of Citizenship or Legal Residency:
- Birth certificate
- Passport
- Naturalization certificate
- Permanent resident card
- Proof of Disability (if applicable):
- Doctor’s statement
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) award letter
- Proof of Pregnancy (if applicable):
- Doctor’s statement
- Positive pregnancy test
In addition to these documents, you may also be required to provide additional information, such as your bank account information, proof of child support payments, or proof of medical expenses.
It is important to note that the documents required for Medicaid application may vary depending on your specific circumstances. Please contact your local TennCare office for more information about the documents you need to provide.
| TennCare Website: | https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/ |
| Medicaid Application Form: | https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/for-individuals-families/new-to-tenncare/apply-for-tenncare.html |
| Contact TennCare: | 1-855-259-0248 |
Contact Information and Resources for Medicaid in Tennessee
If you have questions about Medicaid eligibility or the application process, you can contact the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) at 1-844-266-3505, Monday through Friday, from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Additional Resources:
- TDHS Website: https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/topic/tennessee-medicaid
- Medicaid Application Form: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/humanservices/documents/3860%20Medicaid%20Application%20English.pdf
- List of Covered Services: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/humanservices/documents/3904%20TennCare%20Covered%20Services%20English.pdf
- Find a Doctor or Healthcare Provider: https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/topic/healthcare-providers
- Apply for Medicaid Online: https://apps.tn.gov/carat/
| Category | Age | Income Limit | Resources Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Children | 0-18 years old | 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL) | $2,000 for individuals, $4,000 for families |
| Pregnant Women | Any age | 138% of the FPL | $2,000 for individuals, $4,000 for families |
| Parents and Caregivers | 19-64 years old | 138% of the FPL | $2,000 for individuals, $4,000 for families |
| Disabled Adults | 18 years old and older | SSI income limit | $2,000 for individuals, $4,000 for couples |
| Seniors | 65 years old and older | SSI income limit | $2,000 for individuals, $4,000 for couples |
Alright folks, that covers the basics of signing up for Medicaid in Tennessee. I hope this article has steered you in the right direction, and remember, if you have any more questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local Medicaid office or check out the state’s official Medicaid website. Thanks for stopping by and reading, y’all! Be sure to swing by again soon for more helpful tips and insightful articles. Take care and stay healthy, friends!