TANF
TANF Program

Connecticut TANF & Welfare Offices

Updated August 2026

Connecticut's Department of Social Services operates 12 offices across 12 cities to process applications for Temporary Family Assistance, the state's cash aid program for families with children. New applicants generally must earn under 55 percent of the federal poverty level — roughly $1,222 a month for a household of three — and an approved family of that size can receive as much as $915 a month if they don't already have a housing subsidy, or about $841 a month if they do. Most people apply online through the ConneCT portal, though mailing in Form W-1E or visiting a DSS Resource Center in person are also options. TFA comes with a 36-month lifetime limit for households with an employable adult, though income-eligible families can request extensions in six-month increments.

Source: ctlawhelp.org

Income limit (household of 3)

~$1,222/month (55% of the federal poverty level) for a family of three

Max benefit (household of 3)

up to $915/month for a family of three without a housing subsidy, or ~$841/month with one

Offices in Connecticut

12

How to Apply for TANF in Connecticut

Step-by-step application instructions and what you'll need.

How Long Does TANF Take to Get Approved?

Typical approval timelines, and how to check where your application stands.

How Much Does TANF Pay? Benefit Amounts Explained

How your payment is calculated, and what it could look like for your household.

TANF Offices in Connecticut by City

Cities with 1-2 offices show their address and hours directly below. Cities with 3 or more show a link to see every office.

Helpful Guides

TANF Income Limits by State

See each state's own income limit and maximum monthly benefit, side by side.

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TANF Eligibility & Frequently Asked Questions

Income limits, time limits, and work requirements, answered in plain language.

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Emergency & One-Time TANF Cash Assistance

Faster, one-time help for an urgent crisis like an eviction notice or shutoff bill.

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What Is TANF?

What the program covers, who runs it, and how it varies by state.

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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.

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TANF Work Requirements Explained

Hours, activities, exemptions, and how strictly states actually enforce this.

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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.

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TANF vs. SNAP: Is TANF the Same as Food Stamps?

How the two programs differ, and whether you can get both.

Learn more →