Tennessee EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025
Find Tennessee's 2025 EBT deposit dates and learn what to do if your payment is late or you run out of funds early.
Oct 3, 2025
Rishi Ahuja
Tennessee EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025
Find Tennessee's 2025 EBT deposit dates and learn what to do if your payment is late or you run out of funds early.
Oct 3, 2025
Rishi Ahuja
Tennessee EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025
Find Tennessee's 2025 EBT deposit dates and learn what to do if your payment is late or you run out of funds early.
Oct 3, 2025
Rishi Ahuja
Tennessee EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025
Find Tennessee's 2025 EBT deposit dates and learn what to do if your payment is late or you run out of funds early.
Oct 3, 2025
Rishi Ahuja
Tennessee EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025
Find Tennessee's 2025 EBT deposit dates and learn what to do if your payment is late or you run out of funds early.
Oct 3, 2025
Rishi Ahuja
SHARE
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Knowing your EBT deposit schedule in Tennessee helps you plan your grocery trips and budget effectively. It takes the guesswork out of when your SNAP benefits will arrive, so you can manage your household's needs without stress.
In this guide, you'll find out exactly when to expect your EBT deposits and learn how to troubleshoot common reasons why they might be late.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in Tennessee
In Tennessee, your SNAP benefits are deposited on a staggered schedule based on the last two digits of your Social Security Number (SSN). This system helps distribute payments evenly throughout the first 20 days of the month.
Your deposit date corresponds to your SSN ending as follows:
1st of the month: SSN ending in 00-04
2nd of the month: SSN ending in 05-09
3rd of the month: SSN ending in 10-14
4th of the month: SSN ending in 15-19
5th of the month: SSN ending in 20-24
6th of the month: SSN ending in 25-29
7th of the month: SSN ending in 30-34
8th of the month: SSN ending in 35-39
9th of the month: SSN ending in 40-44
10th of the month: SSN ending in 45-49
11th of the month: SSN ending in 50-54
12th of the month: SSN ending in 55-59
13th of the month: SSN ending in 60-64
14th of the month: SSN ending in 65-69
15th of the month: SSN ending in 70-74
16th of the month: SSN ending in 75-79
17th of the month: SSN ending in 80-84
18th of the month: SSN ending in 85-89
19th of the month: SSN ending in 90-94
20th of the month: SSN ending in 95-99
If you receive Families First (TANF) cash assistance, those benefits are deposited on the first day of each month for all ongoing cases.
For questions about your benefits, you can call EBT Customer Service at 1-888-997-9444 or the Family Assistance Service Center at 1-866-311-4287. You can also locate your county’s office for in-person help.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in Tennessee
Once your deposit date arrives, you can confirm the funds are available in a few different ways. This helps you shop with confidence. For a complete list of options, see our guide on how to check your EBT balance in Tennessee.
Here are three of the most convenient ways to see your current balance:
Benny: The Benny mobile app displays your live SNAP and cash balance and provides cashback on eligible groceries. Download the app, create an account with your email, and link your EBT card to see your balance and recent transactions.
ConnectEBT Portal: Use the official ConnectEBT portal to view your balance online. First-time users must create an account with their SSN, date of birth, and EBT card number. After you log in, your account summary shows your current SNAP and Families First cash balances.
Customer Service Line: Call the 24-hour EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-997-9444. After you provide your 16-digit EBT card number and PIN, the automated system states your current balance. Support is available in multiple languages, with interpreter services for over 200 more.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance In Real Time
Download the app
Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
Several factors within the state's eligibility system can cause a delay in your EBT deposit.
Technology Transition Backlog
The state's new Eligibility Benefits Management System (EBMS), which went live in June 2023, has experienced processing glitches. This created significant backlogs, delaying the entry of approved households into the payment system.
Staffing Shortages and Workload
The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) is dealing with staffing shortages and a high volume of applications. This means that even correctly filed cases may face delays as they wait in a queue to be processed by an overworked caseworker.
Mandatory Interview Delays
SNAP and Families First benefits require a completed eligibility interview before they can be issued. Due to the current backlog, thousands of applicants are waiting for their mandatory phone or in-person interviews to be scheduled and completed.
Administrative or Eligibility Snags
Your benefits can be put on hold due to simple paperwork issues. This includes a late or incomplete six-month report, missing signatures, or an unresolved change in income. Even after you submit the required documents, processing can be delayed for weeks because of the existing backlog, which prevents your deposit from being issued.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
Your unused EBT benefits will roll over each month. The funds remain in your account and do not expire at the end of the issuance period.
However, benefits that remain unused for nine consecutive months will be permanently removed from your account. The state is required to provide a 30-day written notice before this happens.
Any transaction on your card resets the nine-month countdown for your entire balance. This includes purchases, withdrawals, or even a simple balance inquiry.
Expunged benefits cannot be recovered, so it is important to access your account periodically. These rollover and expungement rules also apply to Families First cash assistance benefits.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early
Seeing a zero balance on your EBT card before the month is over can be stressful. Thankfully, you are not without recourse when your food budget runs short. Several strategies can help bridge the gap until your next benefit deposit arrives.
Do a Two-Pronged Check-In With Tennessee DHS
The moment your balance hits zero, contact the Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS). You may be able to get emergency assistance or have your regular benefit amount adjusted based on recent life changes.
Apply for expedited SNAP. Log in or create an account at OneDHS and start a new application, selecting the option for emergency help. Households with under $150 in gross monthly income and $100 or less in assets, or those whose housing costs exceed their income, may qualify for interviews within days.
Re-evaluate your benefit level. If your income dropped, shelter costs rose, or your household size changed, file a SNAP Change Report within 10 days. You can submit this report and supporting documents through the OneDHS portal to have your benefits recalculated for the next deposit cycle.
Turn Volunteer Hours Into a Week of Groceries
Tennessee’s food bank alliance coordinates 1,600 partner agencies. Many of these sites need volunteers for short-notice shifts and offer “volunteer share” boxes, sending you home with the same fresh food you helped pack.
Use the Feeding America locator to find the warehouse nearest you.
Click the “Volunteer” button on the food bank’s site to see and sign up for an open shift. Mid-morning weekday slots often have less competition and may come with larger take-home portions.
Lock In Same-Day Pantry Pickups
Instead of arriving unannounced, reserve a pickup time at a local food pantry. This allows staff to pre-box staples and set aside fresh items for you, which is especially helpful for products with limited stock.
Find a pantry by entering your ZIP code on the Feeding America map or by browsing the statewide list at TennesseeFoodBanks.org. Both sites provide contact information and booking links for pantries in all 95 counties.
When you call to book a time, mention any specific dietary needs your household has, such as diabetic-friendly foods, baby formula, or gluten-free items. Staff can often prepare your box accordingly.
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
Benny helps you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. You then receive cash back for SNAP-eligible items from your purchases.
Download Benny to take control of your EBT funds and get more from your benefits.
SHARE
Knowing your EBT deposit schedule in Tennessee helps you plan your grocery trips and budget effectively. It takes the guesswork out of when your SNAP benefits will arrive, so you can manage your household's needs without stress.
In this guide, you'll find out exactly when to expect your EBT deposits and learn how to troubleshoot common reasons why they might be late.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in Tennessee
In Tennessee, your SNAP benefits are deposited on a staggered schedule based on the last two digits of your Social Security Number (SSN). This system helps distribute payments evenly throughout the first 20 days of the month.
Your deposit date corresponds to your SSN ending as follows:
1st of the month: SSN ending in 00-04
2nd of the month: SSN ending in 05-09
3rd of the month: SSN ending in 10-14
4th of the month: SSN ending in 15-19
5th of the month: SSN ending in 20-24
6th of the month: SSN ending in 25-29
7th of the month: SSN ending in 30-34
8th of the month: SSN ending in 35-39
9th of the month: SSN ending in 40-44
10th of the month: SSN ending in 45-49
11th of the month: SSN ending in 50-54
12th of the month: SSN ending in 55-59
13th of the month: SSN ending in 60-64
14th of the month: SSN ending in 65-69
15th of the month: SSN ending in 70-74
16th of the month: SSN ending in 75-79
17th of the month: SSN ending in 80-84
18th of the month: SSN ending in 85-89
19th of the month: SSN ending in 90-94
20th of the month: SSN ending in 95-99
If you receive Families First (TANF) cash assistance, those benefits are deposited on the first day of each month for all ongoing cases.
For questions about your benefits, you can call EBT Customer Service at 1-888-997-9444 or the Family Assistance Service Center at 1-866-311-4287. You can also locate your county’s office for in-person help.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in Tennessee
Once your deposit date arrives, you can confirm the funds are available in a few different ways. This helps you shop with confidence. For a complete list of options, see our guide on how to check your EBT balance in Tennessee.
Here are three of the most convenient ways to see your current balance:
Benny: The Benny mobile app displays your live SNAP and cash balance and provides cashback on eligible groceries. Download the app, create an account with your email, and link your EBT card to see your balance and recent transactions.
ConnectEBT Portal: Use the official ConnectEBT portal to view your balance online. First-time users must create an account with their SSN, date of birth, and EBT card number. After you log in, your account summary shows your current SNAP and Families First cash balances.
Customer Service Line: Call the 24-hour EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-997-9444. After you provide your 16-digit EBT card number and PIN, the automated system states your current balance. Support is available in multiple languages, with interpreter services for over 200 more.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance In Real Time
Download the app
Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
Several factors within the state's eligibility system can cause a delay in your EBT deposit.
Technology Transition Backlog
The state's new Eligibility Benefits Management System (EBMS), which went live in June 2023, has experienced processing glitches. This created significant backlogs, delaying the entry of approved households into the payment system.
Staffing Shortages and Workload
The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) is dealing with staffing shortages and a high volume of applications. This means that even correctly filed cases may face delays as they wait in a queue to be processed by an overworked caseworker.
Mandatory Interview Delays
SNAP and Families First benefits require a completed eligibility interview before they can be issued. Due to the current backlog, thousands of applicants are waiting for their mandatory phone or in-person interviews to be scheduled and completed.
Administrative or Eligibility Snags
Your benefits can be put on hold due to simple paperwork issues. This includes a late or incomplete six-month report, missing signatures, or an unresolved change in income. Even after you submit the required documents, processing can be delayed for weeks because of the existing backlog, which prevents your deposit from being issued.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
Your unused EBT benefits will roll over each month. The funds remain in your account and do not expire at the end of the issuance period.
However, benefits that remain unused for nine consecutive months will be permanently removed from your account. The state is required to provide a 30-day written notice before this happens.
Any transaction on your card resets the nine-month countdown for your entire balance. This includes purchases, withdrawals, or even a simple balance inquiry.
Expunged benefits cannot be recovered, so it is important to access your account periodically. These rollover and expungement rules also apply to Families First cash assistance benefits.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early
Seeing a zero balance on your EBT card before the month is over can be stressful. Thankfully, you are not without recourse when your food budget runs short. Several strategies can help bridge the gap until your next benefit deposit arrives.
Do a Two-Pronged Check-In With Tennessee DHS
The moment your balance hits zero, contact the Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS). You may be able to get emergency assistance or have your regular benefit amount adjusted based on recent life changes.
Apply for expedited SNAP. Log in or create an account at OneDHS and start a new application, selecting the option for emergency help. Households with under $150 in gross monthly income and $100 or less in assets, or those whose housing costs exceed their income, may qualify for interviews within days.
Re-evaluate your benefit level. If your income dropped, shelter costs rose, or your household size changed, file a SNAP Change Report within 10 days. You can submit this report and supporting documents through the OneDHS portal to have your benefits recalculated for the next deposit cycle.
Turn Volunteer Hours Into a Week of Groceries
Tennessee’s food bank alliance coordinates 1,600 partner agencies. Many of these sites need volunteers for short-notice shifts and offer “volunteer share” boxes, sending you home with the same fresh food you helped pack.
Use the Feeding America locator to find the warehouse nearest you.
Click the “Volunteer” button on the food bank’s site to see and sign up for an open shift. Mid-morning weekday slots often have less competition and may come with larger take-home portions.
Lock In Same-Day Pantry Pickups
Instead of arriving unannounced, reserve a pickup time at a local food pantry. This allows staff to pre-box staples and set aside fresh items for you, which is especially helpful for products with limited stock.
Find a pantry by entering your ZIP code on the Feeding America map or by browsing the statewide list at TennesseeFoodBanks.org. Both sites provide contact information and booking links for pantries in all 95 counties.
When you call to book a time, mention any specific dietary needs your household has, such as diabetic-friendly foods, baby formula, or gluten-free items. Staff can often prepare your box accordingly.
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
Benny helps you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. You then receive cash back for SNAP-eligible items from your purchases.
Download Benny to take control of your EBT funds and get more from your benefits.
SHARE
Knowing your EBT deposit schedule in Tennessee helps you plan your grocery trips and budget effectively. It takes the guesswork out of when your SNAP benefits will arrive, so you can manage your household's needs without stress.
In this guide, you'll find out exactly when to expect your EBT deposits and learn how to troubleshoot common reasons why they might be late.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in Tennessee
In Tennessee, your SNAP benefits are deposited on a staggered schedule based on the last two digits of your Social Security Number (SSN). This system helps distribute payments evenly throughout the first 20 days of the month.
Your deposit date corresponds to your SSN ending as follows:
1st of the month: SSN ending in 00-04
2nd of the month: SSN ending in 05-09
3rd of the month: SSN ending in 10-14
4th of the month: SSN ending in 15-19
5th of the month: SSN ending in 20-24
6th of the month: SSN ending in 25-29
7th of the month: SSN ending in 30-34
8th of the month: SSN ending in 35-39
9th of the month: SSN ending in 40-44
10th of the month: SSN ending in 45-49
11th of the month: SSN ending in 50-54
12th of the month: SSN ending in 55-59
13th of the month: SSN ending in 60-64
14th of the month: SSN ending in 65-69
15th of the month: SSN ending in 70-74
16th of the month: SSN ending in 75-79
17th of the month: SSN ending in 80-84
18th of the month: SSN ending in 85-89
19th of the month: SSN ending in 90-94
20th of the month: SSN ending in 95-99
If you receive Families First (TANF) cash assistance, those benefits are deposited on the first day of each month for all ongoing cases.
For questions about your benefits, you can call EBT Customer Service at 1-888-997-9444 or the Family Assistance Service Center at 1-866-311-4287. You can also locate your county’s office for in-person help.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in Tennessee
Once your deposit date arrives, you can confirm the funds are available in a few different ways. This helps you shop with confidence. For a complete list of options, see our guide on how to check your EBT balance in Tennessee.
Here are three of the most convenient ways to see your current balance:
Benny: The Benny mobile app displays your live SNAP and cash balance and provides cashback on eligible groceries. Download the app, create an account with your email, and link your EBT card to see your balance and recent transactions.
ConnectEBT Portal: Use the official ConnectEBT portal to view your balance online. First-time users must create an account with their SSN, date of birth, and EBT card number. After you log in, your account summary shows your current SNAP and Families First cash balances.
Customer Service Line: Call the 24-hour EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-997-9444. After you provide your 16-digit EBT card number and PIN, the automated system states your current balance. Support is available in multiple languages, with interpreter services for over 200 more.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance In Real Time
Download the app
Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
Several factors within the state's eligibility system can cause a delay in your EBT deposit.
Technology Transition Backlog
The state's new Eligibility Benefits Management System (EBMS), which went live in June 2023, has experienced processing glitches. This created significant backlogs, delaying the entry of approved households into the payment system.
Staffing Shortages and Workload
The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) is dealing with staffing shortages and a high volume of applications. This means that even correctly filed cases may face delays as they wait in a queue to be processed by an overworked caseworker.
Mandatory Interview Delays
SNAP and Families First benefits require a completed eligibility interview before they can be issued. Due to the current backlog, thousands of applicants are waiting for their mandatory phone or in-person interviews to be scheduled and completed.
Administrative or Eligibility Snags
Your benefits can be put on hold due to simple paperwork issues. This includes a late or incomplete six-month report, missing signatures, or an unresolved change in income. Even after you submit the required documents, processing can be delayed for weeks because of the existing backlog, which prevents your deposit from being issued.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
Your unused EBT benefits will roll over each month. The funds remain in your account and do not expire at the end of the issuance period.
However, benefits that remain unused for nine consecutive months will be permanently removed from your account. The state is required to provide a 30-day written notice before this happens.
Any transaction on your card resets the nine-month countdown for your entire balance. This includes purchases, withdrawals, or even a simple balance inquiry.
Expunged benefits cannot be recovered, so it is important to access your account periodically. These rollover and expungement rules also apply to Families First cash assistance benefits.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early
Seeing a zero balance on your EBT card before the month is over can be stressful. Thankfully, you are not without recourse when your food budget runs short. Several strategies can help bridge the gap until your next benefit deposit arrives.
Do a Two-Pronged Check-In With Tennessee DHS
The moment your balance hits zero, contact the Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS). You may be able to get emergency assistance or have your regular benefit amount adjusted based on recent life changes.
Apply for expedited SNAP. Log in or create an account at OneDHS and start a new application, selecting the option for emergency help. Households with under $150 in gross monthly income and $100 or less in assets, or those whose housing costs exceed their income, may qualify for interviews within days.
Re-evaluate your benefit level. If your income dropped, shelter costs rose, or your household size changed, file a SNAP Change Report within 10 days. You can submit this report and supporting documents through the OneDHS portal to have your benefits recalculated for the next deposit cycle.
Turn Volunteer Hours Into a Week of Groceries
Tennessee’s food bank alliance coordinates 1,600 partner agencies. Many of these sites need volunteers for short-notice shifts and offer “volunteer share” boxes, sending you home with the same fresh food you helped pack.
Use the Feeding America locator to find the warehouse nearest you.
Click the “Volunteer” button on the food bank’s site to see and sign up for an open shift. Mid-morning weekday slots often have less competition and may come with larger take-home portions.
Lock In Same-Day Pantry Pickups
Instead of arriving unannounced, reserve a pickup time at a local food pantry. This allows staff to pre-box staples and set aside fresh items for you, which is especially helpful for products with limited stock.
Find a pantry by entering your ZIP code on the Feeding America map or by browsing the statewide list at TennesseeFoodBanks.org. Both sites provide contact information and booking links for pantries in all 95 counties.
When you call to book a time, mention any specific dietary needs your household has, such as diabetic-friendly foods, baby formula, or gluten-free items. Staff can often prepare your box accordingly.
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
Benny helps you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. You then receive cash back for SNAP-eligible items from your purchases.
Download Benny to take control of your EBT funds and get more from your benefits.
SHARE
Knowing your EBT deposit schedule in Tennessee helps you plan your grocery trips and budget effectively. It takes the guesswork out of when your SNAP benefits will arrive, so you can manage your household's needs without stress.
In this guide, you'll find out exactly when to expect your EBT deposits and learn how to troubleshoot common reasons why they might be late.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in Tennessee
In Tennessee, your SNAP benefits are deposited on a staggered schedule based on the last two digits of your Social Security Number (SSN). This system helps distribute payments evenly throughout the first 20 days of the month.
Your deposit date corresponds to your SSN ending as follows:
1st of the month: SSN ending in 00-04
2nd of the month: SSN ending in 05-09
3rd of the month: SSN ending in 10-14
4th of the month: SSN ending in 15-19
5th of the month: SSN ending in 20-24
6th of the month: SSN ending in 25-29
7th of the month: SSN ending in 30-34
8th of the month: SSN ending in 35-39
9th of the month: SSN ending in 40-44
10th of the month: SSN ending in 45-49
11th of the month: SSN ending in 50-54
12th of the month: SSN ending in 55-59
13th of the month: SSN ending in 60-64
14th of the month: SSN ending in 65-69
15th of the month: SSN ending in 70-74
16th of the month: SSN ending in 75-79
17th of the month: SSN ending in 80-84
18th of the month: SSN ending in 85-89
19th of the month: SSN ending in 90-94
20th of the month: SSN ending in 95-99
If you receive Families First (TANF) cash assistance, those benefits are deposited on the first day of each month for all ongoing cases.
For questions about your benefits, you can call EBT Customer Service at 1-888-997-9444 or the Family Assistance Service Center at 1-866-311-4287. You can also locate your county’s office for in-person help.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in Tennessee
Once your deposit date arrives, you can confirm the funds are available in a few different ways. This helps you shop with confidence. For a complete list of options, see our guide on how to check your EBT balance in Tennessee.
Here are three of the most convenient ways to see your current balance:
Benny: The Benny mobile app displays your live SNAP and cash balance and provides cashback on eligible groceries. Download the app, create an account with your email, and link your EBT card to see your balance and recent transactions.
ConnectEBT Portal: Use the official ConnectEBT portal to view your balance online. First-time users must create an account with their SSN, date of birth, and EBT card number. After you log in, your account summary shows your current SNAP and Families First cash balances.
Customer Service Line: Call the 24-hour EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-997-9444. After you provide your 16-digit EBT card number and PIN, the automated system states your current balance. Support is available in multiple languages, with interpreter services for over 200 more.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance In Real Time
Download the app
Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
Several factors within the state's eligibility system can cause a delay in your EBT deposit.
Technology Transition Backlog
The state's new Eligibility Benefits Management System (EBMS), which went live in June 2023, has experienced processing glitches. This created significant backlogs, delaying the entry of approved households into the payment system.
Staffing Shortages and Workload
The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) is dealing with staffing shortages and a high volume of applications. This means that even correctly filed cases may face delays as they wait in a queue to be processed by an overworked caseworker.
Mandatory Interview Delays
SNAP and Families First benefits require a completed eligibility interview before they can be issued. Due to the current backlog, thousands of applicants are waiting for their mandatory phone or in-person interviews to be scheduled and completed.
Administrative or Eligibility Snags
Your benefits can be put on hold due to simple paperwork issues. This includes a late or incomplete six-month report, missing signatures, or an unresolved change in income. Even after you submit the required documents, processing can be delayed for weeks because of the existing backlog, which prevents your deposit from being issued.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
Your unused EBT benefits will roll over each month. The funds remain in your account and do not expire at the end of the issuance period.
However, benefits that remain unused for nine consecutive months will be permanently removed from your account. The state is required to provide a 30-day written notice before this happens.
Any transaction on your card resets the nine-month countdown for your entire balance. This includes purchases, withdrawals, or even a simple balance inquiry.
Expunged benefits cannot be recovered, so it is important to access your account periodically. These rollover and expungement rules also apply to Families First cash assistance benefits.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early
Seeing a zero balance on your EBT card before the month is over can be stressful. Thankfully, you are not without recourse when your food budget runs short. Several strategies can help bridge the gap until your next benefit deposit arrives.
Do a Two-Pronged Check-In With Tennessee DHS
The moment your balance hits zero, contact the Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS). You may be able to get emergency assistance or have your regular benefit amount adjusted based on recent life changes.
Apply for expedited SNAP. Log in or create an account at OneDHS and start a new application, selecting the option for emergency help. Households with under $150 in gross monthly income and $100 or less in assets, or those whose housing costs exceed their income, may qualify for interviews within days.
Re-evaluate your benefit level. If your income dropped, shelter costs rose, or your household size changed, file a SNAP Change Report within 10 days. You can submit this report and supporting documents through the OneDHS portal to have your benefits recalculated for the next deposit cycle.
Turn Volunteer Hours Into a Week of Groceries
Tennessee’s food bank alliance coordinates 1,600 partner agencies. Many of these sites need volunteers for short-notice shifts and offer “volunteer share” boxes, sending you home with the same fresh food you helped pack.
Use the Feeding America locator to find the warehouse nearest you.
Click the “Volunteer” button on the food bank’s site to see and sign up for an open shift. Mid-morning weekday slots often have less competition and may come with larger take-home portions.
Lock In Same-Day Pantry Pickups
Instead of arriving unannounced, reserve a pickup time at a local food pantry. This allows staff to pre-box staples and set aside fresh items for you, which is especially helpful for products with limited stock.
Find a pantry by entering your ZIP code on the Feeding America map or by browsing the statewide list at TennesseeFoodBanks.org. Both sites provide contact information and booking links for pantries in all 95 counties.
When you call to book a time, mention any specific dietary needs your household has, such as diabetic-friendly foods, baby formula, or gluten-free items. Staff can often prepare your box accordingly.
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
Benny helps you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. You then receive cash back for SNAP-eligible items from your purchases.
Download Benny to take control of your EBT funds and get more from your benefits.
SHARE
Knowing your EBT deposit schedule in Tennessee helps you plan your grocery trips and budget effectively. It takes the guesswork out of when your SNAP benefits will arrive, so you can manage your household's needs without stress.
In this guide, you'll find out exactly when to expect your EBT deposits and learn how to troubleshoot common reasons why they might be late.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in Tennessee
In Tennessee, your SNAP benefits are deposited on a staggered schedule based on the last two digits of your Social Security Number (SSN). This system helps distribute payments evenly throughout the first 20 days of the month.
Your deposit date corresponds to your SSN ending as follows:
1st of the month: SSN ending in 00-04
2nd of the month: SSN ending in 05-09
3rd of the month: SSN ending in 10-14
4th of the month: SSN ending in 15-19
5th of the month: SSN ending in 20-24
6th of the month: SSN ending in 25-29
7th of the month: SSN ending in 30-34
8th of the month: SSN ending in 35-39
9th of the month: SSN ending in 40-44
10th of the month: SSN ending in 45-49
11th of the month: SSN ending in 50-54
12th of the month: SSN ending in 55-59
13th of the month: SSN ending in 60-64
14th of the month: SSN ending in 65-69
15th of the month: SSN ending in 70-74
16th of the month: SSN ending in 75-79
17th of the month: SSN ending in 80-84
18th of the month: SSN ending in 85-89
19th of the month: SSN ending in 90-94
20th of the month: SSN ending in 95-99
If you receive Families First (TANF) cash assistance, those benefits are deposited on the first day of each month for all ongoing cases.
For questions about your benefits, you can call EBT Customer Service at 1-888-997-9444 or the Family Assistance Service Center at 1-866-311-4287. You can also locate your county’s office for in-person help.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in Tennessee
Once your deposit date arrives, you can confirm the funds are available in a few different ways. This helps you shop with confidence. For a complete list of options, see our guide on how to check your EBT balance in Tennessee.
Here are three of the most convenient ways to see your current balance:
Benny: The Benny mobile app displays your live SNAP and cash balance and provides cashback on eligible groceries. Download the app, create an account with your email, and link your EBT card to see your balance and recent transactions.
ConnectEBT Portal: Use the official ConnectEBT portal to view your balance online. First-time users must create an account with their SSN, date of birth, and EBT card number. After you log in, your account summary shows your current SNAP and Families First cash balances.
Customer Service Line: Call the 24-hour EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-997-9444. After you provide your 16-digit EBT card number and PIN, the automated system states your current balance. Support is available in multiple languages, with interpreter services for over 200 more.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance In Real Time
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Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
Several factors within the state's eligibility system can cause a delay in your EBT deposit.
Technology Transition Backlog
The state's new Eligibility Benefits Management System (EBMS), which went live in June 2023, has experienced processing glitches. This created significant backlogs, delaying the entry of approved households into the payment system.
Staffing Shortages and Workload
The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) is dealing with staffing shortages and a high volume of applications. This means that even correctly filed cases may face delays as they wait in a queue to be processed by an overworked caseworker.
Mandatory Interview Delays
SNAP and Families First benefits require a completed eligibility interview before they can be issued. Due to the current backlog, thousands of applicants are waiting for their mandatory phone or in-person interviews to be scheduled and completed.
Administrative or Eligibility Snags
Your benefits can be put on hold due to simple paperwork issues. This includes a late or incomplete six-month report, missing signatures, or an unresolved change in income. Even after you submit the required documents, processing can be delayed for weeks because of the existing backlog, which prevents your deposit from being issued.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
Your unused EBT benefits will roll over each month. The funds remain in your account and do not expire at the end of the issuance period.
However, benefits that remain unused for nine consecutive months will be permanently removed from your account. The state is required to provide a 30-day written notice before this happens.
Any transaction on your card resets the nine-month countdown for your entire balance. This includes purchases, withdrawals, or even a simple balance inquiry.
Expunged benefits cannot be recovered, so it is important to access your account periodically. These rollover and expungement rules also apply to Families First cash assistance benefits.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
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What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early
Seeing a zero balance on your EBT card before the month is over can be stressful. Thankfully, you are not without recourse when your food budget runs short. Several strategies can help bridge the gap until your next benefit deposit arrives.
Do a Two-Pronged Check-In With Tennessee DHS
The moment your balance hits zero, contact the Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS). You may be able to get emergency assistance or have your regular benefit amount adjusted based on recent life changes.
Apply for expedited SNAP. Log in or create an account at OneDHS and start a new application, selecting the option for emergency help. Households with under $150 in gross monthly income and $100 or less in assets, or those whose housing costs exceed their income, may qualify for interviews within days.
Re-evaluate your benefit level. If your income dropped, shelter costs rose, or your household size changed, file a SNAP Change Report within 10 days. You can submit this report and supporting documents through the OneDHS portal to have your benefits recalculated for the next deposit cycle.
Turn Volunteer Hours Into a Week of Groceries
Tennessee’s food bank alliance coordinates 1,600 partner agencies. Many of these sites need volunteers for short-notice shifts and offer “volunteer share” boxes, sending you home with the same fresh food you helped pack.
Use the Feeding America locator to find the warehouse nearest you.
Click the “Volunteer” button on the food bank’s site to see and sign up for an open shift. Mid-morning weekday slots often have less competition and may come with larger take-home portions.
Lock In Same-Day Pantry Pickups
Instead of arriving unannounced, reserve a pickup time at a local food pantry. This allows staff to pre-box staples and set aside fresh items for you, which is especially helpful for products with limited stock.
Find a pantry by entering your ZIP code on the Feeding America map or by browsing the statewide list at TennesseeFoodBanks.org. Both sites provide contact information and booking links for pantries in all 95 counties.
When you call to book a time, mention any specific dietary needs your household has, such as diabetic-friendly foods, baby formula, or gluten-free items. Staff can often prepare your box accordingly.
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
Benny helps you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. You then receive cash back for SNAP-eligible items from your purchases.
Download Benny to take control of your EBT funds and get more from your benefits.
