Does temporary financial assistance and additional resources sound like the helping hand you and your family need?

If you’re curious whether you might qualify for TANF, you must look at the key criteria and requirements, including income limits, family composition, citizenship status, and work requirements. 

Each state has its own specific guidelines and processes, but the core requirements are generally similar across the board. By understanding these main criteria, you can better understand whether you might be eligible for TANF assistance. 

Income Qualifications for TANF

Income limits are a major factor in determining eligibility for TANF. Your family’s income must be below a certain threshold, which varies by state and is usually a percentage of the federal poverty level. For example, a state might set the limit at 50% or 75% of the FPL.

It’s important to note that both earned income (from employment) and unearned income (such as child support or unemployment benefits) are considered in this calculation. Some states also include asset tests, meaning they look at your savings, property, and other resources to determine your eligibility.

Family Composition

TANF is specifically designed to assist families with children. To qualify, there must be at least one minor child in the household, typically younger than the age of 18. In some cases, children up to the age of 19 can qualify if they are still attending high school. 

Pregnant women can also be eligible, often starting from the third trimester of pregnancy. This focus on families with children ensures that TANF resources are directed toward supporting the next generation.

Citizenship Status

Eligibility for TANF requires U.S. citizenship or qualified non-citizen status. This includes lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, and certain other immigrant categories. Each state may have specific rules about which non-citizens qualify, so it’s important to check the guidelines in your state.

Residency

You need to be a resident of the state where you are applying for TANF benefits. This means you must provide proof of residency, such as a lease agreement, utility bill, or other official documents confirming your address within the state.

Work Requirements

TANF strongly emphasizes work and self-sufficiency. Able-bodied adult applicants must participate in work-related activities, including job training, employment, or community service. 

The number of hours required varies depending on factors like the children’s age and the family’s composition. These work requirements are deliberate to help families move toward financial independence.

Social Security Numbers

All individuals applying for TANF must provide a Social Security Number or proof that they have applied for one. This requirement helps ensure that the benefits are going to eligible individuals and facilitates the administration of the program.

Cooperation with Child Support Enforcement

Cooperating with child support enforcement is another important requirement for custodial parents. This means providing information about the non-custodial parent and assisting in efforts to establish paternity and secure child support payments. This cooperation helps ensure that both parents contribute to their children’s financial support.

Each state has slightly different rules, so checking your state’s specific requirements is a good idea. While the TANF program has a lot of eligibility requirements, it also offers a lot of benefits. Next, check out all of the great resources and support services available to TANF participants.