Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) provides monthly cash assistance and support services to low-income families with children. Here's who qualifies, how to apply, and how to reach your state's TANF office.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is a federal program that provides cash assistance and support services to families with children who have low or no income. It replaced the older Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) program in 1996.
TANF is funded through federal block grants, but each state, territory, and tribal government runs its own program — often under a different name (for example, Colorado Works, CalWORKs, Wisconsin Works/W-2, or Texas TANF). Because each state designs its own program, eligibility rules, benefit amounts, and application steps vary depending on where you live.
In general, TANF is designed to help families pay for basic needs such as food, housing, and utilities while parents work toward steady employment and financial stability. Most programs pair cash assistance with work requirements and employment support.
The exact process depends on your state, but applying for TANF generally follows the same three steps. Start by contacting your state or local human services / welfare office.
Each state administers TANF through its own agency (such as a Department of Human Services or Department of Social Services). Locate your state's program and local office using the state list below.
Most applications ask for proof of identity, residency, income, resources, and information about the children in your household, including Social Security numbers or proof that you've applied for them.
Many states let you apply online, by mail, or in person at a local office. After you apply, a caseworker reviews your case and determines whether you meet the program's requirements.
Each state sets its own detailed rules, but most TANF programs share the same core eligibility requirements:
TANF cash assistance also has a federal lifetime limit of 60 months (five years) for most adults, though states may set shorter limits or grant extensions in certain cases. Check your state's program for the specifics that apply to you.
Each state runs its own TANF program under its own name. Call your state's human services agency for eligibility details, to start an application, or to ask about an existing case. Program names and numbers change periodically — always confirm with your official state agency.
| State | Program name | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Family Assistance | 1-334-242-1950 |
| California | CalWORKs | 1-877-410-8829 |
| Florida | Temporary Cash Assistance | 1-866-762-2237 |
| Georgia | TANF | 1-877-423-4746 |
| Illinois | TANF | 1-800-843-6154 |
| Michigan | Family Independence Program | 1-855-275-6424 |
| New York | Family Assistance | 1-800-342-3009 |
| Ohio | Ohio Works First | 1-866-244-0071 |
| Pennsylvania | Cash Assistance (TANF) | 1-877-395-8930 |
| Texas | TANF | 2-1-1 (Texas) |
| Washington | WorkFirst / TANF | 1-877-501-2233 |
| Wisconsin | Wisconsin Works (W-2) | 1-800-362-3002 |
This is a partial list of common states. Program names and phone numbers vary and are subject to change — always verify with your official state benefits agency before applying.
Benefit amounts vary widely by state and depend on your household size, income, and your state's rules. Each state sets its own maximum monthly payment, so the amount a family receives in one state can be very different from another.
Federal law sets a lifetime limit of 60 months (five years) of cash assistance for most adult recipients. Some states set shorter limits, and certain families may qualify for extensions or exemptions. Check your state's program for details.
Yes. Many families who qualify for TANF also qualify for SNAP and Medicaid. In most states you can apply for these programs together through the same human services office or online application.
Most adults receiving TANF are required to take part in work or work-related activities, such as job searching, training, or education. Some people — for example, those with a disability or caring for a very young child — may be exempt depending on state rules.
Start with your state's human services agency using the state list above, then ask for the office that serves your county or area. Calling ahead is recommended so you know the office hours and which documents to bring.