How to Apply for TANF in West Virginia
West Virginia's TANF program, WV WORKS, is applied for through WV PATH, the state's integrated eligibility portal that also handles Medicaid, SNAP, and child support in one account. You can run a no-sign-in-required screening tool first to see what you might qualify for before creating an account. Most WV WORKS recipients also end up on SNAP and Medicaid, though neither is automatic, and the same portal also gives you access to WV WORKS' educational and job-training opportunities once you're enrolled.
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 West Virginia, you apply for TANF through West Virginia Department of Human Services, online or by phone. West Virginia must approve, deny, or withdraw a WV WORKS application within 30 days of the client's initial contact, per the Income Maintenance Manual.
What You'll Need
- Proof of identity
- Social Security numbers for household members
- Proof of income
- Proof of West Virginia residency
- Information on household composition (children in the home)
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1
Screen for assistance (optional)
Use the WV PATH "Find Assistance" screening tool at wvpath.wv.gov, which requires no sign-in, to get an early read on what programs you may qualify for.
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2
Gather your information
Have identification, income, household, and residency information ready for everyone in your household before you apply.
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3
Apply online through WV PATH
Create a WV PATH account and submit your application at wvpath.wv.gov/application, or contact your local Department of Human Services (DoHS) field office to apply in person.
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4
Complete your eligibility interview
A caseworker from your local DoHS field office will review your application and complete an eligibility interview with you.
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5
Track your case in My Account
Once you've applied, use the My Account section of WV PATH to review your case status and any messages from your caseworker.
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6
Follow WV WORKS program requirements
If approved, you may be connected to WV WORKS educational and job-training opportunities, including assessment, vocational training, and employment-related education, through WV PATH.
Submit Your Application
Need help before your application is processed?
West Virginia must approve, deny, or withdraw a WV WORKS application within 30 days of the client's initial contact, per the Income Maintenance Manual. 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 West Virginia'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 →