Tennessee Government Food Stamps
The food stamp program in Tennessee assists families and individuals struggling to make ends meet. Food stamps help low-income families afford food during difficult times. Applicants for assistance must have earnings at or below the income limits the Tennessee Department of Human Services sets to determine eligibility.
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Application for Benefits
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Food stamp applicants must apply with the Tennessee Department of Human Services to qualify for assistance. The state will schedule an interview with the applicant to determine eligibility for food assistance. Individuals must provide Social Security numbers for all household members receiving food stamps in the home. During the interview, the applicant must provide documentation such as birth certificates, check stubs, Social Security cards, utility bills, insurance documents, bank statements and receipts for rent. Tennessee uses the documentation to determine if the applicant qualifies for food assistance in the state.
Income Limits
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Applicants for food assistance must have incomes within the state limits to receive benefits. The income the state uses to calculate eligibility and benefits includes wages, earnings from self-employment, unemployment compensation, child support, public assistance, pensions, worker's compensation, Social Security and SSI, according to the Tennessee Department of Human Services. Applicants must have incomes at or below the gross income limits before the state allows deductions. For example, in a household of three, the maximum gross income limit is $1,984 per month. Those who have incomes at or below the gross income limits can make deductions to the monthly income to meet net limits. Tennessee allows applicants to deduct 20 percent of earnings, dependent care expenses, medical expenses over $35 per month for households with an elderly or disabled member, a standard deduction and an amount for shelter. The maximum deduction for shelter expenses is $367. The household must next meet net income limits after deductions. For example, a household of three members must have a net income at or below $1,526.
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Assets
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Tennessee sets the limits on assets for applicants for food stamps at $2,000, but households with an elderly or disabled member has an asset limit of $3,000. The state does not count the family home, property that produces income, life insurance policies, household items, retirement accounts and vehicles that have a value under $1,500.
Employment
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The Tennessee Department of Human Services requires food stamp recipients to work a minimum of 80 hours each month. Those without dependents between the ages of 18 and 59 not working may receive food stamps for a total of five months in a three-year period. The state requires food stamp recipients to register for work or participate in a job-training program.
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References
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