How to Request a SNAP Appeal or Fair Hearing in Tennessee

When your SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits in Tennessee are denied, reduced, or stopped, you usually have the right to ask for an appeal or fair hearing. This is a formal way to tell the state you disagree with a decision and want it reviewed.

This guide from HowToGetAssistance.org explains, in plain language, how SNAP appeals and fair hearings in Tennessee typically work, what deadlines matter, what to expect, and how to prepare. This site is not an official government office and cannot process applications or appeals, but it can help you understand the usual steps so you can work with the official state agency more confidently.

Understanding SNAP Appeals and Fair Hearings in Tennessee

What is an appeal or fair hearing?

In Tennessee, if you disagree with a decision about your SNAP case, you can usually ask for a fair hearing. This is:

• A chance to have your case reviewed by someone who was not involved in the original decision
• An opportunity to tell your side of the story, present documents, and bring witnesses
• A way to ask the state to change or reverse a decision if it was made in error

People often request a SNAP appeal or fair hearing when they believe a decision was wrong, unfair, or based on missing/misunderstood information.

Common reasons people appeal SNAP decisions

Some typical reasons Tennessee residents request a fair hearing include:

• Application denied when they believe they qualify
• Benefits reduced and they don’t understand or agree with the calculation
• Case closed/terminated for reasons they dispute, such as
  • Alleged failure to provide documents
  • Alleged failure to complete an interview
  • Alleged failure to report income or changes
• Overpayment notice (the state says you were paid too much and must pay it back)
• Sanctions or penalties related to work requirements or program rules
• Household size or income counted incorrectly

You do not have to know exactly which rule was applied. It’s usually enough to say you disagree with the decision and want a fair hearing.

Your Right to a SNAP Appeal in Tennessee

Who can request a fair hearing?

You can usually request a fair hearing if:

• You are a current SNAP applicant or recipient in Tennessee
• You are the head of household or someone the head of household has authorized
• In some cases, an authorized representative (like a relative, friend, or advocate you have given permission to) can request it on your behalf

If you work with a legal aid office, they may also help submit a request on your behalf, but that is your choice.

Deadlines: How long do you have to appeal?

Timelines are very important. Exact deadlines can change, so always verify with your local Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) office or the notice you received. Typically:

• There is a final deadline (often around 90 days from the date on your notice) to request a hearing about most SNAP decisions.
• If you want to keep receiving your current SNAP benefits while the appeal is decided, you usually must request a hearing within a shorter time frame (often around 10 days from the notice date, or before the date the change would take effect).

Look closely at the “Hearing Rights” or “Appeal Rights” section on your SNAP notice. It usually spells out:

• The last day you can request a hearing
• Whether you can continue receiving benefits during the appeal
• How to make the request (phone, mail, in person, sometimes fax or online)

If you’re close to the deadline, it is often safer to request the hearing immediately and then gather extra documents afterward.

How to Request a SNAP Fair Hearing in Tennessee

Tennessee uses the Department of Human Services (DHS) to manage SNAP. The exact methods can change, but people commonly request a hearing in one or more of these ways:

1. By phone

You can usually call your local DHS office or the state customer service or appeals line listed on your notice and say:

Write down:

• The date and time you called
• The name or ID of the person you spoke with
• Any confirmation number or note that they say will be added to your case

2. In person

You can typically go to your local DHS office and:

• Tell the receptionist or worker that you want to request a fair hearing
• Ask for any appeal or fair hearing request form they use
• Fill it out and keep a copy for yourself, if possible

If you struggle with reading or writing, you can usually ask staff to help you complete the form, and you can mark or state that you want a hearing.

3. In writing (mail, fax, or sometimes online)

Most SNAP notices in Tennessee include:

• A mailing address for hearing requests
• Often a form or space where you can check a box and sign to request an appeal
• Sometimes a fax number or other submission option

In your written request, clearly include:

• Your full name
• Your case number or client ID (from your notice)
• Your current address and phone number
• A clear statement like: “I want to request a fair hearing for my SNAP case.”
• Your signature and date

If Tennessee offers a state benefits portal, it may also allow hearing requests through your online account. If you are unsure, ask your local DHS office how to submit a hearing request online, if that option is available.

What to Include When You Request a Hearing

You generally don’t need a long explanation to get a hearing approved. However, sharing a short reason can help the state understand the issue.

You may want to mention:

• Which notice you’re appealing
  • Example: “Notice dated January 10 about closing my SNAP case.”
• What you disagree with
  • Example: “My income was counted incorrectly.”
  • Example: “I turned in the documents, but my case was still closed.”
• If you want benefits to continue at the same level during the appeal
  • Example: “I request continued benefits until my hearing decision.”

If you want someone to act as your authorized representative (like a friend, family member, case manager, or advocate), ask DHS how to designate them officially. This usually requires your signature on a form or statement.

Continuing Your SNAP Benefits During the Appeal

Many people want to know whether their current SNAP benefits can continue while an appeal is pending.

In Tennessee, it often works like this (always check your own notice for the specific rule):

• If your benefits are being reduced or stopped, and
• You request the hearing within the specific time frame listed on your notice (often around 10 days),

…you may be able to keep receiving your previous benefit amount until:

• The hearing decision is made, or
• Your certification period ends, whichever comes first.

⚠️ Important:
If the hearing decision goes against you, the state may say you owe back the extra benefits paid during the appeal period. Ask your caseworker or local office about this risk so you can decide whether you want continued benefits during the appeal.

Preparing for Your Tennessee SNAP Fair Hearing

Once your hearing is scheduled, you should receive a written notice with:

• The date and time of the hearing
• Whether it will be in person, by phone, or by video
• Any call-in number or location information
• Instructions for requesting accommodations, such as an interpreter or disability-related assistance

Documents to gather

Gather anything that supports your side. Common examples include:

• Identification and case paperwork
  • Your hearing notice
  • The original decision notice you’re appealing
  • Any letters, emails, or notes from DHS
• Income records
  • Recent pay stubs
  • Letters from your employer explaining hours or wages
  • Self-employment income logs or tax returns
• Household and expense proof
  • Lease or rent receipts
  • Utility bills (electric, gas, water, etc.)
  • Child care receipts
  • Medical expense receipts if you’re elderly or have a disability and claimed them for deductions
• Proof of changes or compliance
  • Proof you reported changes (copies of forms or fax confirmations)
  • Proof you submitted requested documents
  • Proof you attended or tried to attend any required appointment
• Any other evidence
  • Statements from people who know your situation
  • Records showing why you missed a deadline (hospital records, obituary, etc., if relevant)

Make copies if possible, and keep your originals in a safe place. Ask your local DHS office or the hearing officer instructions on how and when to submit documents so they are part of the official record.

Do you need a lawyer?

You are not required to have an attorney to attend a SNAP fair hearing in Tennessee. Many people go on their own.

However, you may choose to get help from:

• Legal aid organizations (often free for low-income households)
• Advocacy groups that help with public benefits
• A trusted friend or family member who can help you stay organized or speak on your behalf as an authorized representative

If you’re looking for legal help, you can usually:

• Call 2-1-1 to ask about local legal aid resources
• Contact a Tennessee legal services organization in your area

What Happens During the SNAP Hearing

Tennessee SNAP fair hearings are often somewhat informal compared with a courtroom, but they are still official legal proceedings. A hearing officer (or similar official) listens, reviews evidence, and makes a written decision.

Typical steps in a Tennessee SNAP fair hearing

While details can vary, here’s what usually happens:

1. Introduction

   • The hearing officer explains the issue, the process, and everyone’s roles.
   • You may be asked to verify your identity.

2. Statement of the issue

   • The officer states what decision is being appealed, such as denial, reduction, closure, or overpayment.

3. Agency’s presentation

   • A DHS representative usually explains how they made their decision, citing:
     • The information in your case file
     • The rules they applied
   • They may present documents as evidence.

4. Your presentation

   • You can tell your side of the story.
   • You can show your own documents, describe events, explain mistakes, or correct misunderstandings.
   • You may bring witnesses who know your situation and can answer questions.

5. Questions

   • The hearing officer may ask you and the DHS representative questions.
   • You can usually ask questions of the DHS representative and any witnesses.

6. Closing

   • The hearing officer explains what happens next, including when and how you’ll receive a written decision.

Hearing officers are supposed to be neutral and follow SNAP rules. They do not work for your local DHS office but are part of the state’s appeals process.

After the Hearing: Decisions and Next Steps

Getting the decision

After the hearing, you should receive a written decision notice. It typically states:

• Whether the decision is upheld, reversed, or changed
• The reasons and rules used
• Any changes that must be made to your SNAP case
• What happens if you disagree with the hearing decision (additional appeal options are usually more limited and may involve court)

Possible outcomes

Here’s a simple overview of what may happen:

If the decision is in your favor, DHS is usually required to correct your case and provide any back benefits you’re owed according to SNAP rules.

If you lose the hearing and continued to receive benefits during the appeal, the state may say you owe back some benefits. If you can’t pay all at once, you can typically ask about repayment plans.

Common Reasons Tennessee SNAP Appeals Are Not Successful

People sometimes lose appeals because of issues that can often be avoided. Some common problems include:

• Missed deadlines

  • Requesting the hearing too late
  • Not submitting requested documents by the hearing date

• Not attending the hearing

  • If you miss the hearing and don’t contact the office in time with a good reason, the case may be dismissed.
  • If you cannot attend at the scheduled time, contact the appeals office as soon as possible to ask about rescheduling.

• Lack of evidence

  • Not bringing proof of income, expenses, or changes
  • Relying only on statements without documents when documents exist

• Rules applied correctly

  • Sometimes the appeal fails because the agency did follow the rules correctly, even if the outcome is difficult for the household.

To give yourself the best chance, focus on:

• Deadlines
• Showing up (or calling in)
• Organizing your documents

If You Still Disagree After the Decision

If you believe the hearing decision itself is wrong:

• The decision notice may explain whether you can:
  • Request a reconsideration or
  • Take the matter to court (for example, by filing an appeal in a local court)

Court appeals are usually more complex and often require help from a lawyer or legal aid office. If you’re interested in this option, contact legal aid or an attorney as soon as possible because court deadlines can be short.

What If You Don’t Qualify for SNAP or Lose Your Appeal?

If you are not eligible for SNAP or you lose your appeal, there may still be other food assistance resources in Tennessee:

• Food pantries or food banks

  • Many communities have local organizations that provide free groceries.

• Community meal programs

  • Churches, community centers, and nonprofits may offer free or low-cost meals.

• WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

  • For pregnant people, postpartum individuals, and children under 5 who meet income and nutritional risk guidelines.

• School meal programs

  • Free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch for eligible school-aged children.

• 211 information line

  • You can dial 2-1-1 to ask about local food assistance, housing help, and other services in Tennessee.

These programs are usually run by local organizations, nonprofits, and government agencies, not by HowToGetAssistance.org.

How to Make Sure You’re Using Official Tennessee SNAP Channels

Because SNAP involves personal information and benefits, it’s important to confirm you’re dealing with real, official offices, not scammers.

Here are some tips:

• Check the sender of letters and emails

  • SNAP notices in Tennessee typically come from the Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) or a clearly identified state agency.

• Use known phone numbers

  • Look up phone numbers through the Tennessee DHS official website, your local phone directory, or your local DHS office, rather than trusting random calls or messages.

• Be cautious with fees

  • SNAP applications and appeals are free. If someone asks for upfront payment to “guarantee approval” or “speed up your appeal,” be very careful.

• Protect your information

  • Only share your Social Security number, case number, or EBT information with verified officials from DHS or other known agencies.
  • Avoid giving personal data through unfamiliar websites, texts, or social media messages.

If you are ever unsure, you can:

• Call your local DHS office directly using a phone number you find from a trusted source.
• Ask them to confirm your case status, hearing date, or any documents they say they need.

Key Takeaways for SNAP Appeals and Fair Hearings in Tennessee

• You generally have the right to appeal SNAP decisions in Tennessee through a fair hearing.
• Read your notice carefully to find the deadline for requesting a hearing and whether you can keep receiving benefits during the appeal.
• You can usually request a hearing by phone, in person, mail, fax, or sometimes online through official state channels.
• Gather documents that support your case and attend your hearing on time.
• You may seek help from legal aid, advocates, or an authorized representative, but you are not required to have a lawyer.
• HowToGetAssistance.org is not an official DHS office and cannot file or decide appeals, but you can use this information to work more effectively with Tennessee’s official SNAP agencies and offices.