How to Apply for TANF in Arkansas

Arkansas's TANF cash assistance program is called Transitional Employment Assistance (TEA), and it's bundled with SNAP and Medicaid into a single online application at Access.Arkansas.gov rather than a standalone portal. TEA pairs a monthly cash payment with required work activities, and DHS case managers use the first interview to review the application and figure out which support services — job readiness, transportation, childcare — a family needs. Applications can also be filed on paper, by mail, or in person at a county DHS office if you'd rather not use the online system.

Updated August 2026

1. 1

   Apply online, by mail, phone, or in person

   Create an account and submit a single application covering TEA, SNAP, and Medicaid at Access.Arkansas.gov, or apply by mail, phone, or in person at your local county DHS office.

2. 2

   Or file the paper TEA application

   Download and complete the TEA Application (Form DCO-0004), available in English, Spanish, and Marshallese from humanservices.arkansas.gov, and submit it to your county DHS office.

3. 3

   Submit verification documents

   Provide a birth certificate or other proof of your child's relationship and date of birth, Social Security numbers for all family members, and proof of income. Documents can be uploaded through your Access Arkansas account or dropped off/mailed to your county office.

4. 4

   Complete the eligibility interview

   A DHS case manager reviews your application answers with you and asks about your family circumstances during the first interview to determine your services and eligibility.

5. 5

   Track your case and receive benefits

   Check application status, read DHS notices, and set up text or email alerts through your Access Arkansas account. Approved families receive a monthly cash payment along with TEA support services such as job readiness, transportation, and childcare assistance.

Verified against the official Arkansas TANF agency site. View source