TANF
TANF Program

How to Apply for TANF in Montana

Montana's TANF cash assistance is a strict 60-month lifetime benefit, and the state routes nearly everyone through a single online portal, apply.mt.gov, that also handles SNAP. A notable local option: Montana still lets applicants request a PDF application by email from HHS support staff, and posts a dedicated Spanish-language version of the paper application (Form HCS-250) alongside it.

Updated August 2026

What You'll Need

✓ Social Security number ✓ Proof of Montana residency ✓ Proof of citizenship/alien status ✓ Income documentation for all household income sources ✓ Information on countable resources (limit is $3,000)
  1. 1

    Apply online at apply.mt.gov

    Submit your TANF application through the state portal, which also handles SNAP applications.

  2. 2

    Or call the Public Assistance Helpline

    Call 1-888-706-1535 for help applying or to ask questions about your application.

  3. 3

    Or visit your local Office of Public Assistance

    Find your nearest OPA office through the DPHHS Office Locator to apply in person.

  4. 4

    Or request a paper application

    Email hhssspapplicationcustomersupport@mt.gov for a PDF application, or download the Spanish-language application (Form HCS-250) directly from the DPHHS TANF page.

  5. 5

    Meet nonfinancial and financial eligibility criteria

    You must provide a Social Security number, meet Montana residency and citizenship requirements, cooperate with Child Support Enforcement, and keep countable resources under $3,000.

  6. 6

    Sign the Employability Service Plan

    Approved recipients must negotiate, sign, and comply with all requirements of an Employability Service Plan (E/SP) as a condition of ongoing eligibility.

Submit Your Application

Apply Online ☎ 1-888-706-1535

Verified against the official Montana TANF agency site. View source

Find a TANF office in Montana →