How to Apply for TANF in New Jersey
New Jersey combines its TANF and General Assistance cash programs under one name, Work First New Jersey (WFNJ), applied for through the state's MyNJHelps.gov portal rather than a separate TANF-only system. WFNJ carries a 60-month lifetime limit, but the clock only runs while you're actively receiving benefits — get a job and the clock stops, banking any remaining months for a future emergency. Every applicant is also automatically screened for "immediate need" at the time of application if they're at risk of losing shelter, utilities, food, or clothing.
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 New Jersey, you apply for TANF through New Jersey Department of Human Services, online. New Jersey's WFNJ regulations (N.J.A.C. 10:90) require the county or municipal agency to process and act on a Work First New Jersey application within 30 days.
What You'll Need
- Valid ID (driver's license, birth certificate, or government ID)
- Proof of where you live (lease, rental agreement, or utility bill), unless experiencing homelessness
- Proof of earned and unearned income
- Proof of resources (bank statements)
- Social Security number for each household member applying
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1
Check eligibility requirements
You must be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen and New Jersey resident, have resources of $2,000 or less, report all household income, and cooperate with child support requirements if you have a dependent child.
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2
Screen your eligibility (optional)
Use the 5-10 minute screener at njhelps.gov to get a quick read on whether your household is likely to qualify before applying.
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3
Apply online or by mail
Apply online at mynjhelps.gov (takes about 20-45 minutes), or download the paper application (Form WFNJ-1J) and bring, mail, or fax it to your County Social Service Agency.
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4
Complete a phone or in-person interview
Within 30 days of your application, your county caseworker will interview you by phone or in person and review your application with you.
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5
Submit verification documents
Upload required documents online at mynjhelps.gov, or link your case there if you applied in person.
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6
Get your eligibility decision
Most households get a decision and benefits within 30 days. If you're at risk of losing shelter, utilities, food, or clothing, ask about "immediate need" assistance, which is evaluated automatically at application.
Submit Your Application
Need help before your application is processed?
New Jersey's WFNJ regulations (N.J.A.C. 10:90) require the county or municipal agency to process and act on a Work First New Jersey application within 30 days. 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 New Jersey'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 →