Department of Human Services
Gina Lodge, Commissioner

The Food Stamp program provides nutritional assistance benefits to children and families, the elderly, the disabled, unemployed and working families. Benefits are 100 percent federally funded. Since the nationwide implementation of the Food Stamp program in 1964, malnutrition has been virtually eliminated; however, hunger and food insecurity continues to exist in every state.

There are more than 385,000 families enrolled in the Food Stamp program in Tennessee. Each month, at least $80 million in benefits are distributed to these families. Food stamp benefits are issued and accessed electronically using a Benefit Security Card or EBT Card. To apply for benefits, visit your local DHS county office.

Learn more about:
Applying for Services
EBT Cards/ Electronic Benefit Transfer

 VIDEO:  Your Tennessee EBT Card

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Eligibility Information
Nutrition Information
Making America Stronger: U.S. Food Stamp Program Video

Reports and Information:
Food Stamp Policy Manual Vol I
IFood Stamp Policy Manual Vol II
Statistical Information
USDA Report on Case for Increasing Participation

Non Discrimination Information. In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. Under the Food Stamp Act and USDA policy, discrimination is prohibited also on the basis of religion or political beliefs.

To file a complaint of discrimination, contact USDA or HHS. Write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). Write HHS, Director, Office for Civil Rights, Room 506-F, 200 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20201 or call (202) 619-0403 (voice) or (202) 619-3257 (TDD). USDA and HHS are equal opportunity providers and employers.