Medicaid Eligibility in Tennessee 2026: Income Limits, Requirements & How to Apply

Medicaid Expansion Status in Tennessee

Tennessee has not expanded Medicaid, meaning most adults without dependent children do not qualify for Medicaid regardless of income. Only parents earning up to 105% FPL ($28,686/year for a family of three) may qualify.

Who Qualifies for Medicaid in Tennessee?

Medicaid in Tennessee covers several distinct groups, each with different income and eligibility requirements. The major categories are: seniors (65+), people with disabilities, pregnant women, children, and low-income adults (limited eligibility in non-expansion states).

Medicaid for Seniors (65+) in Tennessee

Seniors in Tennessee may qualify for Medicaid to cover nursing home care, home-based care, or to supplement Medicare coverage. The income limit for Regular Medicaid (Aged, Blind, and Disabled) in Tennessee is $994/month for a single person. For nursing home care, the limit is $2,982/month.

Medicaid for People with Disabilities in Tennessee

People with disabilities who receive SSDI or SSI may qualify for Medicaid in Tennessee. SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid in most states. SSDI recipients must wait 24 months for Medicare, during which Medicaid may provide coverage if income is below $994/month.

How to Apply for Medicaid in Tennessee

You can apply for Medicaid in Tennessee through the following channels:

• Online: Through Tennessee’s state Medicaid portal or HealthCare.gov
• Phone: Call Tennessee’s Medicaid office directly
• In person: Visit your local Department of Social Services or Medicaid office
• Mail: Download and mail a paper application

Medicaid and Medicare Dual Eligibility in Tennessee

Individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid are called “dual eligibles.” In Tennessee, dual eligible individuals receive comprehensive coverage: Medicare covers most medical services, while Medicaid covers Medicare premiums, deductibles, copays, and additional services like long-term care. There are approximately 259,200 dual-eligible individuals in Tennessee.

Medicaid Asset Limits in Tennessee

In addition to income limits, Medicaid for long-term care in Tennessee has asset limits. For a single applicant, the countable asset limit is typically $2,000. For a married couple where one spouse needs nursing home care, the community spouse may keep up to $157,920 in countable assets (the Community Spouse Resource Allowance, or CSRA, for 2026). The primary home, one vehicle, personal belongings, and certain other assets are typically exempt.