How Do I Appeal?

Do you have a problem with TennCare, Families First or Food Stamps? An appeal might fix the problem. There are two kinds of appeals:

DHS said you can’t get TennCare, Families First or Food Stamps. Did DHS say you can’t get benefits? They might be wrong. You should appeal if you think DHS made a mistake.

• You can call the Family Assistance Service Center at 1-866-311-4287 to appeal by phone.
• OR, you can appeal in writing. Visit the TennCare Website for how to appeal in writing.
• Keep a copy and proof you sent the appeal.
• If you want to keep TennCare while the appeal is going, you MUST appeal before your care is cut!  When you call, you can ask that your TennCare benefits continue until the appeal is decided.  If you win, you will keep your care.  If you lose, TennCare might ask you to pay them back.
• Click here to download a printable flyer with more information on eligibility appeals.

You are on TennCare, but you can’t get something you need. Do you need a medical service or medicine that you can’t get? Do you have medical bills you think TennCare should pay for? Do you want to change your health plan (MCO)?  Did TennCare authorize less treatment than you need? You should appeal if you need something you can’t get.

• You can call the TennCare Solutions Unit at 1-800-878-3192 to appeal by phone
• OR, you can appeal in writing by filling out an appeal form. You can mail or fax your appeal form. Download an appeal form. Print it out. Fill it out. Then mail or fax your appeal. The fax number is 1-888-345-5575.
• You can visit the TennCare website for more information on how to appeal.
• When you appeal, be sure to tell TennCare what care you need and the name of the doctor that ordered it.
• Keep a copy and proof you sent the appeal.
• Click here to download a printable flyer with more information on services appeals.