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Find Help in Tennessee: Where to Start with 211, SNAP, TennCare and ID

A simple first step guide for Tennessee: dial 211, apply for SNAP through One DHS, apply for TennCare, reach 988, get a state ID, and find free legal aid.

Need help tonight?

911Danger or emergency right now 988Call or text. Crisis or thinking about suicide. 24 hours 211Shelter, food, bills, anything else 1 800 799 7233Someone hurting you at home. Text START to 88788

Start here

Hi friend. If things feel like too much right now, you don't have to figure it all out at once. Start with one call to 211, then take the next small step from this page.

Dial 211 Call or text 988

Quick answers

What is 211 and how do I reach it?

211 is a free and confidential service that helps you find local help in a crisis and beyond, like basic needs, health care, rent and utility help, and legal help. Dial 211 or text your ZIP code to 898211. The website has resources any time of day.

Official page: unitedwaygreaternashville.org/211

How do I apply for SNAP food help?

Apply online any time at the One DHS Customer Portal at onedhs.tn.gov/csp, or call the One DHS Contact Center at 833 772 8347. For TTY, dial 711. TDHS has offices in all 95 counties, and you can visit by appointment. Sending your documents within 10 days of applying can help avoid delays.

Official page: tn.gov/humanservices/for-families/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap.html

How do I apply for TennCare, the state Medicaid program?

Apply online at TennCareConnect.TN.gov, call TennCare Connect at 855 259 0701, or mail a paper application. If you need help in person, your local health department can help. Plan for 30 to 60 minutes to fill out the application.

Official page: tn.gov/tenncare/members-applicants/how-do-i-apply-for-tenncare.html

Who can I call if I'm in a mental health crisis?

Call or text 988 and press 0 to talk to a trained counselor in Tennessee, any time of day or night. You can also chat at 988lifeline.org. Mobile crisis help is available in all 95 counties.

Official page: tn.gov/behavioral-health/crisis.html

What do I need to get a Tennessee state ID?

For an ID Only license, you bring one proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence, your Social Security number, and two proofs of Tennessee residency. If you live in a shelter or are homeless, a state affidavit can be accepted as the second proof of residency.

Official page: tn.gov/safety/driver-services/idonly.html

Your next steps

Tick each one as you go. Your ticks stay on this phone only.

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Dial 211 and tell them what you need most today.
Apply for SNAP at onedhs.tn.gov/csp.
Apply for TennCare at TennCareConnect.TN.gov.
If you feel unsafe, call or text 988.

All done. You are ready, friend.

Bunkly tip: write down the date, who you talked to, and what they said. Keep it with your papers. It helps if you need to call back.

Who to call in Tennessee

Here are official places to start. Other places may also help. Each place decides who it can serve, and hours change, so call ahead when you can.

Any local help

Tennessee 211 (TN211)

Free help line and website to find local help with basic needs, health care, rent and utilities, and legal help. Dial 211 or text your ZIP code to 898211.

Visit website

Official page: tn211.org

Food and cash benefits