Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP)
Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) is the state’s welfare program for low-income families with children, combining cash, food assistance, and employment services into one monthly benefit.
Eligibility for MFIP is based on family’s income and assets. Receipt of MFIP is, however, limited to 60 months only, with some exceptions for the elderly, disabled persons, and children under age 18.
MFIP is designed to be a welfare program that expects, supports, and rewards work. MFIP participants must spend a specified number of hours every week engaged in work or other work activity within one month of receiving their first MFIP benefit.
FAQ
Who is eligible for MIFP in Minnesota?
To be eligible for cash assistance in Minnesota, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident.
- Be a resident of the state of Minnesota.
- Be unemployed or under employed (working for very low wages).
- Be pregnant or have a child under age 19.
- Meet an initial income test
- Meet an initial asset limit of $10,000.
What is the income limit for MIFP in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, a family is considered “needy” when their countable income at the initial income test is less than the threshold called the “Family Wage Level ”.
For example, the current limit for a family of three is $1,573 per month, above which the family no longer receives cash assistance, but may continue to receive food benefits.
| Household Size | Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $746 |
| 2 | $1,225 |
| 3 | $1,573 |
| 4 | $1,887 |
| 5 | $2,180 |
| 6 | $2,527 |
| 7 | $2,750 |
| 8 | $3,035 |
There is also a $10,000 asset limit which includes cash, bank accounts, liquid stocks and bonds, and vehicles.
How much do I get for MFIP in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, MFIP integrates cash assistance and the “food portion” (SNAP) into a single monthly benefit. A family of three with no income may receive up to $1,430 per month in combined cash and food benefits.
| Household Size | Food | Cash |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $247 | $431 |
| 2 | $453 | $661 |
| 3 | $652 | $778 |
| 4 | $829 | $886 |
| 5 | $1,002 | $980 |
| 6 | $1,224 | $1,073 |
| 7 | $1,333 | $1,167 |
| 8 | $1,510 | $1,249 |
MFIP-eligible families who do not receive public housing or rental assistance may receive a $117 monthly MFIP Housing Assistance Grant to help cover housing costs.
How do I apply for MFIP?
Applications for MFIP can be submitted online through MN Benefits or in person at your local DHS office in the county or Tribal district where you live.1
After your application is received, an interview will be arranged to determine your eligibility, either by phone or in person for a face-to-face interview.
Minnesota Department of Human Services
Economic Assistance Customer Service
(651) 431-4050
What is DWP in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, DWP stands for the Diversionary Work Program (DWP), a four-month program that helps parents work right away rather than go on welfare.
Most parents, including pregnant women, will be enrolled in this program before they start to get MFIP benefits. To qualify, they must:
- Meet an initial income test
- Meet an initial asset limit of $10,000
DWP recipients will get help with employment services and may be eligible to receive child care assistance, food stamps, housing, as well as medical assistance.
What is Minnesota Supplemental Aid?
Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA) is another state program that provides supplemental cash assistance to people who are aged, blind, or disabled and SSI recipients.
MSA recipients receive a monthly cash grant to supplement their income, up to $81 per month for single adults and up to $111 per month for couples, along with medical assistance and other support services.
Minnesota Department of Human Services
Minnesota Supplemental Aid
(651) 431-4049
Footnotes
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Find the specific contact information for your county or tribal nation from the directory here . ↩