TANF
TANF Program

How to Apply for TANF in Florida

Florida calls its TANF cash program Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA), and almost everyone applies the same way DCF handles food and medical assistance: through the MyACCESS self-service portal. Most applicants finish the online application in about 30 minutes and can e-sign it on the spot, though DCF still reviews every application to decide whether a phone interview is required before benefits are approved. Cash assistance under TCA is capped at a lifetime total of 48 months per adult, and parents, children, and minor siblings living together must apply as one case.

Updated August 2026

What You'll Need

✓ Social Security number or proof of application for one ✓ Proof of identity, citizenship, or qualified noncitizen status ✓ Proof of earned and unearned income (pay stubs, child support, SSA/VA notices) ✓ Children's immunization records (for children under age 5) ✓ MyACCESS account (for online application and document upload)
  1. 1

    Apply online through MyACCESS

    Create an account or log in at myaccess.myflfamilies.com and complete the Temporary Cash Assistance application, which takes about 30 minutes on average and can be e-signed at the end.

  2. 2

    Or apply in person, by mail, or by fax

    Visit a Family Resource Center or DCF community partner location, or download and print a paper application from the ESS Forms page and mail it to Office of Economic Self Sufficiency Mail Center, P.O. Box 1770, Ocala, FL 34478-1770.

  3. 3

    Complete an interview if required

    Not every application requires an interview, but if yours does, DCF sends a pending notice with instructions. During the interview you'll be asked about your household situation and may need to verify your identity.

  4. 4

    Submit verification documents

    Provide proof of identity, citizenship or noncitizen status, and earned/unearned income (pay stubs, child support records, Social Security or VA notices) by uploading them in MyACCESS, mailing, faxing, or dropping them off at a local office.

  5. 5

    Wait for an eligibility decision

    Processing takes up to 30 days (longer if a disability determination is needed). If approved, you'll receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card in the mail; if you already have an unexpired EBT card from the past 24 months, DCF may reuse it.

Submit Your Application

Apply Online ☎ 850-300-4323

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