Arizona TANF

Arizona’s Cash Assistance Program (TANF) provides temporary cash benefits and supportive services to the neediest of Arizona’s children and their families.

The main objectives of the program are to:

• Assist families in meeting their basic needs, such as food, housing, and clothing,
• Promote work participation and progress toward self-sufficiency, and
• Enhance parents’ employability through work activities and supportive services.

As a result, those receiving cash benefits who aren’t exempt are required by law to complete and sign an agreement to engage in work activities through the JOBS Program. ¹

FAQ

How do you qualify for TANF in Arizona?

To qualify for TANF in Arizona, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

1. Be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident.
2. Live in Arizona.
3. Be pregnant or have a child under age 19.
4. Be unemployed or under employed (working for very low wages).

What is the income limit for TANF in Arizona?

In Arizona, a family is considered “needy” if its gross countable income is at or below the federal poverty level. That’s about $2,277 per month for a family of three.

How much cash assistance will I get in AZ?

Arizona’s cash assistance benefits are determined using one of the two payment standards which are based on whether the family has a shelter cost. ²

For example, the payment standard for a family of three with shelter obligations, such as rent, mortgage, taxes, etc., is $347 per month or $218 per month if the family has no shelter cost.

Arizona limits cash assistance to 12 months in a lifetime, although families may apply for an additional 12 months, making it the nation’s shortest such limit.

How much is the grant diversion in Arizona?

In Arizona, the Grant Diversion Program provides a one-time lump-sum payment of up to $1,041 for a family of three. The exact amount may vary based on household size and eligibility.

Grant diversion is a nonrecurring payment that can be received ONLY once in a 12-month period. Ask your eligibility interviewer about “diversion payment” during your interview.

How do I apply for cash assistance in Arizona?

You can apply for cash assistance through Health-e-Arizona Plus . Be ready to provide documents like income proof, residency, and potentially medical info for eligibility.

Arizona Department of Economic Security
Customer Support Center
(855) 432-7587

What documents do I need to apply for TANF in Arizona?

When you apply for TANF cash assistance in Arizona, you may be asked to provide all or some of the following documents:

• A valid photo ID
• Social Security numbers for the people applying (or proof that you have applied for them)
• Proof of residency (where you live), such as a lease or a utility bill
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status
• Proof of your children’s identity and their relationship to you, such as birth certificates
• Proof of earned and unearned income for everyone in your household, such as pay stubs
• Proof of other resources, such as bank statements, if the state asks for them
• Proof of pregnancy, if you are applying while pregnant
• Information about the children’s other parent, such as a name and last known address, which states use for child support
• Any additional documents needed to verify your household’s situation

Each state sets its own rules, and what you need may depend on your situation. If you are not sure what to bring, contact Health-e-Arizona Plus (DES) at (855) 432-7587 and they can tell you exactly what your application requires.

How long does it take to get approved for cash assistance?

Once your application is filed, you will be contacted for an eligibility interview. A decision will be made, at the latest, 45 days from the date of your application.

If you’re eligible, you will receive a QUEST Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card which can be used to withdraw cash at an ATM or used wherever EBT is accepted.