Benefits · Long Term Care
How to apply for TennCare CHOICES — Long-Term Services & Supports
Division of TennCare — delivered by managed care organizations; intake via the Area Agencies on Aging & Disability
Who it's for
TennCare CHOICES is Tennessee's Medicaid long-term-care program. It pays for nursing-home care and home & community based services (personal care, home care, adult day care) for older adults (65+) and adults with physical disabilities (21+) who need a nursing-home level of care, so many can stay in their own home. In 2026 income can't be more than $2,982/month and countable assets can't be more than $2,000 (your home doesn't count). Apply through your Area Agency on Aging & Disability.
CHOICES Groups 1 and 2 require a nursing-facility level of care; Group 3 serves people 'at risk' of that level. Income limit is $2,982/month (300% of the SSI benefit rate); the resource limit is $2,000 (the home you live in doesn't count). A 5-year lookback applies to assets given away or sold under value. People over the income limit may set up a Qualifying Income Trust. Not legal or financial advice.
What you'll need
- Proof of age 65+ or physical disability (21+)
- Proof of Tennessee residency
- Proof of income and resources
- A nursing-facility level-of-care assessment (arranged through your AAAD/health plan)
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-866-836-6678
Renewals
annual
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.