How to Apply for TANF in Alabama

Alabama's cash assistance program, the Family Assistance Program, is applied for through OneAlabama, a combined online portal and mobile app that also handles document uploads for the related JOBS work program — or the old-fashioned way, by mailing or dropping off a paper application at your county DHR office. Benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, and the state is explicit that EBT funds cannot be spent at liquor stores, casinos, tattoo parlors, or psychic services. The program is limited to low-income families with children under 18 (or under 19 if the child is a full-time secondary student).

Updated August 2026

1. 1

   Confirm you meet eligibility rules

   Review the Family Assistance Program eligibility requirements, which cover income, resource, and residency rules for households with children under 18 (or under 19 for a full-time secondary student).

2. 2

   Get the application form

   Download the "Application for Family Assistance" form from the DHR Family Assistance page, or pick one up in person at your local county DHR office.

3. 3

   Gather your supporting documents

   Collect proof of identity, income, household composition, and residency before you apply so your application isn't delayed for missing verification.

4. 4

   Submit your application

   Apply online and submit documents through OneAlabama (one.alabama.gov), or mail or deliver your completed paper application to the DHR office in the county where you live.

5. 5

   Find your county DHR office if applying in person

   Use the county office locator on the DHR website to find the address and hours for the office serving your county.

6. 6

   Follow up with Family Assistance

   For questions about your application status, call the Family Assistance Division at (334) 242-1773 or (334) 242-1950, or email dhr_fad@dhr.alabama.gov.

Verified against the official Alabama TANF agency site. View source