How to Apply for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), is a government program that provides cash assistance to low income families. If your family has suffered the loss of a parent, a parents unemployment or is a single-parent family, you may qualify for this aid. Read on to learn how to apply for TANF.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Call your local Department of Human Services (DHS) office or find them online through your state government website to get a list of documentation required to complete the TANF application. A representative at the DHS office can tell you where to turn in the application, or you can set up an appointment to complete the application process with assistance.

2. Gather all the paperwork and financial information that you need for the application. Required information includes copies of rent or mortgage information, utility bills, employment information, recent tax statements, birth certificates and social security cards for all members of the household.

3. Fill out the application completely. Missing information slows down the approval process. If there is any portion of the application you don't understand, call your local DHS office for help.

4. Follow your state's or county's guidelines on where and how to turn in your TANF application. You can apply by mail in most states, though some require you to apply in person and attend an appointment.

5. Communicate all changes of employment, address and anyone moving in or out of your home to your caseworker. You're assigned a caseworker once the appropriate office receives your TANF application. If you don't inform your caseworker of all changes, your application can be denied and you may be fined.