Maryland Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA)
Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) is a time-limited program that assists needy families with children through a combination of cash assistance and work opportunities.
Conditions of eligibility include cooperation with child support, participation in work activities and compliance with substance abuse provisions.
Maryland’s requirement for work activities is 40 hours per week, 20 of which must be “core activities” that include job search and job readiness training.
FAQ #
Who is eligible for TANF in Maryland? #
To be eligible for TANF in Maryland, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal alien, or permanent resident.
- Be a resident of Maryland.
- Be pregnant or have a child under age 19 who lives with them. A child who is 18 must be a full-time high school student.
- Be either under-employed, unemployed or about to become unemployed.
- Meet program income guidelines.
What is the income limit for TANF in Maryland? #
In Maryland, a family is considered “needy” when their net countable income is equal to or less than the benefit level paid for the family size.
For a family of three, it's $727 a month. TCA does not consider resources when determining eligibility for most families.
- Family Size Income Limit
- 1 $328
- 2 $575
- 3 $727
- 4 $870
- 5 $1,010
- 6 $1,110
- 7 $1,247
- 8 $1,372
How do I get cash assistance in Maryland? #
Apply in person at your local DSS office or you may also file an application online at myDHR — a web-based screening and application tool for all Marylanders to apply for benefits.
All work eligible applicants are required to seek employment and participate fully in work requirement activities from the day they apply for benefits.
How much cash assistance will I get in MD? #
How much cash assistance you get in Maryland largely depends upon your family’s income and size. Maryland’s TCA pays a maximum of $727 per month for eligible families of three with little or no income.
Families who need only short-term assistance may apply for a Welfare Avoidance Grant (WAG) instead of monthly TCA benefits.
Eligible families may receive a lump sum payment equivalent to three months of TCA benefits or more but it is limited to one payment per year.
How long can I get TCA in Maryland? #
TCA has a 60 month (5 year) lifetime limit for recipients. Recipients may go on and off of TCA as often as needed, but may not exceed the 60 months of benefits unless otherwise exempt due to hardship.
For more information on Temporary Cash Assistance in Maryland,
Call 1-800-332-6347