How to Apply for TANF in Kentucky
Kentucky's TANF-funded cash program goes by the name KTAP, short for the Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program, and it's run through the Cabinet for Health and Family Services' Department for Community Based Services (DCBS). Kentucky was an early adopter of the kynect.ky.gov integrated benefits portal, so most applicants start there rather than filing a standalone paper form. Benefits are capped at 60 months over a lifetime, and the amount is based on family size and income.
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 Kentucky, you apply for TANF through Department for Community Based Services, online or by phone. Kentucky regulations require a decision and payment on a KTAP application within 45 days of the date it is filed.
What You'll Need
- Proof of Kentucky residency
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or qualified immigrant status
- Household income information
- Information about children in your care (up to age 18, or 19 if in school)
- Social Security numbers for household members
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Start an application at kynect.ky.gov
Apply online for KTAP and other assistance programs together through the state's kynect benefits portal.
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Or apply in person or by phone
You can also begin an application in person at any DCBS office, or by calling DCBS Call Services at 855-306-8959.
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Confirm eligibility requirements
You must have low income, be a Kentucky resident, be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant, and be a parent/caretaker relative responsible for a child up to age 18 (or 19 if still in school).
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Submit Form PA-77 if applying on paper
The paper Application for KTAP Benefits is Form PA-77, available from DCBS and used alongside the online kynect option.
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Complete the eligibility review
DCBS will review your household income and family size to determine your KTAP benefit amount and connect you with the Kentucky Works Program for job and training support.
Submit Your Application
Need help before your application is processed?
Kentucky regulations require a decision and payment on a KTAP application within 45 days of the date it is filed. 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 Kentucky'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 →