How to Apply for TANF in Maryland

Maryland calls its TANF program Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA), and the state channels applications through MarylandBenefits.gov, the same portal used for SNAP and other public assistance. Eligibility here is unusually tied to compliance: beyond income and asset limits, Maryland requires families to cooperate with child support enforcement, participate in work activities, and comply with substance-abuse provisions, and earned and unearned income cannot exceed the benefit level set for the household's assistance-unit size.

Updated August 2026

1. 1

   Apply online at MarylandBenefits.gov

   Submit your Temporary Cash Assistance application through the state benefits portal at marylandbenefits.gov.

2. 2

   Or apply at your Local Department of Social Services

   Apply in person at your county Local Department of Social Services, or file an application by mail, fax, or other electronic means; someone can also drop off an application on your behalf.

3. 3

   Cooperate with child support requirements

   Families must cooperate with child support enforcement as a condition of TCA eligibility unless a good-cause exemption applies.

4. 4

   Participate in required work activities

   Adults in the household must participate in work activities as directed by the local department to remain eligible and avoid sanctions.

5. 5

   Sign up for direct deposit

   Once approved, enroll in direct deposit of cash benefits through the Bank On with DHS program to receive payments without a physical card.

Verified against the official Maryland TANF agency site. View source