TANF
TANF Program

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.

Updated August 2026

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
  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 5

    Submit verification documents

    Upload required documents online at mynjhelps.gov, or link your case there if you applied in person.

  6. 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

Apply Online

Verified against the official New Jersey TANF agency site. View source

Find a TANF office in New Jersey →