How to apply for TennCare CHOICES — Long-Term Services & Supports

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.

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

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about TennCare CHOICES — Long-Term Services & Supports. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of age 65+ or physical disability (21+), proof of Tennessee residency, proof of income and resources — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather your required documents: proof of age (65+) or physical disability (21+), proof of Tennessee residency, and proof of income and resources such as bank statements, Social Security award letters, and similar records.
2. Review the financial rules before applying. In 2026, countable income must be no more than $2,982 per month and countable assets no more than $2,000. The home you live in does not count as a resource. A 5-year lookback applies to assets given away or sold for less than fair market value. People over the income limit may be able to set up a Qualifying Income Trust — consult a qualified advisor for guidance on your situation.
3. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging & Disability (AAAD) to start your application. You can apply online or call 1-866-836-6678.
4. Complete the application by providing all requested information about your income, resources, residency, and care needs.
5. Arrange a nursing-facility level-of-care assessment. Your AAAD or health plan will help coordinate this evaluation, which is required to determine which CHOICES group you qualify for.
6. Submit any additional documents or information requested by TennCare or your managed care organization during the review process.
7. Plan to renew your CHOICES coverage every year. Keep your income and resource documents up to date so renewal goes smoothly.

What to expect: After submitting your application, TennCare and your managed care organization will review your financial eligibility and coordinate your level-of-care assessment. Processing times vary, so ask your AAAD or managed care organization for an estimate of how long to expect. If approved, you will be placed in a CHOICES group based on your care needs — Groups 1 and 2 require a nursing-facility level of care, while Group 3 serves people at risk of reaching that level. Coverage must be renewed annually, so watch for renewal notices and respond promptly to avoid a gap in services. The information above is general guidance only and is not legal or financial advice.

Renewals

annual