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.
This site is an independent, non-government TANF directory and isn't affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by any state or federal government agency. Always verify details directly with the official agency before visiting or applying.
Quick Answer
In Hawaii, you apply for TANF through Department of Human Services, online or by phone. Hawaii Administrative Rules require the Department of Human Services to decide a financial assistance application, including TANF and TAONF, within 45 days of the date it is received.
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
Need help before your application is processed?
Hawaii Administrative Rules require the Department of Human Services to decide a financial assistance application, including TANF and TAONF, within 45 days of the date it is received. If your family needs money sooner, most states offer a faster, one-time emergency payment.
See emergency & one-time assistance →Compare Other States
TANF rules, income limits, and benefit amounts are set state by state. These share Hawaii's census region — useful if you're moving, or comparing how another state runs the same program.
Helpful Guides
TANF Eligibility & Frequently Asked Questions
Income limits, time limits, and work requirements, answered in plain language.
Learn more →How Much Does TANF Pay? Benefit Amounts Explained
How your payment is calculated, a real worked example, and how the amount scales by family size.
Learn more →TANF Income Limits by State
See each state's own income limit and maximum monthly benefit, side by side.
Learn more →How to Use Your TANF EBT Card
How to withdraw cash, avoid ATM fees, and what to do if your card is lost or stolen.
Learn more →TANF Work Requirements Explained
Hours, activities, exemptions, and how strictly states actually enforce this.
Learn more →What Is TANF?
What the program covers, who runs it, and how it varies by state.
Learn more →TANF Kinship Care & Relative Caregiver Benefits
Child-only TANF grants for grandparents and relatives raising a child — and how they differ from a regular case.
Learn more →TANF vs. SNAP: Is TANF the Same as Food Stamps?
How the two programs differ, and whether you can get both.
Learn more →