Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP)
Minnesota Family Investment Program, or MFIP, is the state’s welfare program for low-income families with children. It helps families become self-sufficient by providing cash and food assistance, employment and training services, and other supportive services.
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, above which families are ineligible for cash assistance.
There is also a $10,000 asset limit which includes cash, bank accounts, liquid stocks and bonds, and vehicles.
How much do I get on MFIP?
How much cash assistance you will get on MFIP largely depends upon your family’s income and size. For example, a single mother with two children and no other income may receive up to $778 in monthly benefit.
| Family Size | Payment |
|---|---|
| 1 | $431 |
| 2 | $661 |
| 3 | $778 |
| 4 | $886 |
| 5 | $980 |
| 6 | $1,073 |
| 7 | $1,167 |
| 8 | $1,249 |
MFIP-eligible families who are not currently receiving public housing or assisted rental subsidies will also receive a $110 MFIP Housing Assistance Grant each month to help pay for housing.
How do I apply for MFIP?
Applications for MFIP can be submitted online through ApplyMN or in person at your local DHS office in the county or Tribal district where you live.
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.
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 will be enrolled in this program before they start to get MFIP benefits.
DWP recipients are also 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, along with medical assistance and other support services. The benefit pays up to $81 per month for single adults and up to $111 per month for couples.