TANF
TANF Program

How to Apply for TANF in Hawaii

Hawaii actually runs two overlapping cash assistance programs: the federally funded TANF program, and a state-funded twin called TAONF (Temporary Assistance for Other Needy Families) that covers families who'd otherwise qualify except for their citizenship status. Both are administered by the Department of Human Services' Benefit, Employment & Support Services Division (BESSD) and use the same combined application and income limits, so applicants don't need to figure out which one applies to them before applying. Recipients are also required to participate in the First-To-Work Program as a condition of getting benefits.

Updated August 2026

What You'll Need

✓ Social Security numbers for each family member ✓ Proof of household income (must be below 185% of FPL) ✓ Information about a specified relative adult and minor dependent child in the home ✓ U.S. citizenship documentation for TANF (not required for the state TAONF program) ✓ Child support/absent parent information if applicable
  1. 1

    Complete the combined benefits application

    Fill out the SNAP and Financial (cash) Assistance Application, Form DHS 1240, which covers both TANF/TAONF and food benefits together.

  2. 2

    Apply online or submit by mail/in person

    Apply through the Public Assistance Information System (PAIS) online portal, or submit your completed paper application to a Statewide Benefit Processing Center.

  3. 3

    Provide required verification

    Furnish Social Security numbers for each family member and be prepared to document income, since families must fall below 185% of the federal poverty level in gross income to qualify.

  4. 4

    Cooperate with Child Support Enforcement

    If a child has an absent parent, you'll need to cooperate with the Child Support Enforcement Agency to pursue additional financial support as a condition of eligibility.

  5. 5

    Enroll in the First-To-Work Program

    As a condition of eligibility, recipient families participate in First-To-Work, which provides job readiness training, education support, job search assistance, and supportive services like child care subsidies.

Submit Your Application

Apply Online ☎ 855-643-1643

Verified against the official Hawaii TANF agency site. View source

Find a TANF office in Hawaii →