How to Apply for TANF in Washington
Washington keeps the federal name TANF for its cash program, but pairs it with a state-only twin called SFA (State Family Assistance) for residents who lose TANF eligibility solely due to federal welfare reform changes. Nearly everyone approved for TANF is also enrolled in WorkFirst, the state's mandatory employment program, and there's even a one-time alternative called Diversion Cash Assistance (DCA) for families who just need a single month of help and can otherwise support themselves. Applications go through the Economic Services Administration, and the process is unusually phone-friendly: you can apply, interview, and get help all through the same contact center line.
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 Washington, you apply for TANF through Department of Social and Health Services, online or by phone. Washington must process a TANF application within 30 calendar days unless the delay is for good cause, per WAC 388-406-0035.
What You'll Need
- Proof of Washington residency
- Household size and income information
- Information about a pregnant household member or minor child in your care
- Social Security numbers for household members
- Child support/absent parent information, if applicable
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1
Submit an application
Apply online at washingtonconnection.org, in person at your local Community Services Office, by phone at 877-501-2233, by fax at 888-338-7410, or by mail to DSHS, P.O. Box 11699, Tacoma, WA 98411.
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2
Complete an interview
Complete an interview in person or by phone at 877-501-2233, available between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday through Friday.
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3
Get a financial eligibility referral
If you meet financial eligibility, you'll be referred to a worker to discuss WorkFirst participation requirements.
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4
Attend WorkFirst orientation
Most recipients must participate in WorkFirst, which helps with job search, work experience, school or training enrollment, and addressing employment barriers.
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5
Cooperate with the Division of Child Support
You'll generally need to open a child support case for any parent not in the home, unless participating would cause you or your children physical or emotional harm ("good cause").
Submit Your Application
Need help before your application is processed?
Washington must process a TANF application within 30 calendar days unless the delay is for good cause, per WAC 388-406-0035. 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 Washington'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 →