Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) is one of Massachusetts’ cash assistance programs, better known as “TANF”.
TAFDC is designed to provide temporary cash assistance to needy families with children and pregnant women with little or no assets or income. If you’re pregnant, you can apply for TAFDC for yourself if your child is due in less than 4 months.
Massachusetts defines a “needy family” as a family with a child or a non-custodial parent whose income does not exceed 85% of the State Median Income.
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As a condition of eligibility, all work-eligible participants are required to participate in the Employment Services Program (ESP) for the required minimum number of hours per week in work-related activities.
ESP offers a variety of education, skills training, and employment opportunities. The goal is to help families achieve self-sufficiency through meaningful employment.
FAQ #
How much does welfare pay in Massachusetts? #
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How much money you get from TAFDC in Massachusetts largely depends upon your family’s income and size. For example, a family of three with little or no income can get up to a maximum of $712 per month. 1
However, receipt of cash benefits is limited to 24 months only, with some exceptions for the elderly, disabled persons, and children under age 18.
Do I qualify for welfare in Massachusetts? #
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TAFDC is for families with children under 18, including teen parents. In order to qualify, you must:
- Live in Massachusetts
- Be a U.S. national, citizen, legal alien or permanent resident
- Meet income and asset limits
To apply for TAFDC, please contact the local Transitional Assistance Office in the county where you live.
If you are not sure which office to contact, please call
Application Information Hotline
1-800-249-2007
- The first state to raise benefits since the onset of COVID-19; its increase (of 10 percent) was the state’s first since 2000.