Oklahoma TANF
Oklahoma TANF provides time-limited cash assistance to eligible families with children under the age of 18, helping them meet basic needs while working toward self-sufficiency.
The program is designed to:
- to provide temporary assistance to needy families;
- to end dependency of needy parents by promoting job preparation and work.
As a condition of eligibility, all TANF recipients who aren’t exempt are required to participate in work related activities for a specified number of hours per week.
FAQ
What benefits does TANF offer?
- Cash Payment
- SoonerCare
- Child Care Subsidy (with $0 copay)
- Participation in Job Readiness Activities
- Flexible Funds (based on need and case status)
How do I qualify for TANF in Oklahoma?
To be considered for TANF in Oklahoma, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident.
- Be a resident of the state of Oklahoma.
- Be pregnant or have a child under age 19.
- Be unemployed or under employed for very low wages.
- Have countable income within certain limits .
What is the income limit for TANF in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, a family of three is considered “needy” if its countable income is less than the Oklahoma’s Standard of Need, about $1,193 per month.
| Household Size | Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $736 |
| 2 | $923 |
| 3 | $1,193 |
| 4 | $1,476 |
| 5 | $1,726 |
| 6 | $1,975 |
| 7 | $2,225 |
| 8 | $2,447 |
How much do I get for TANF in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, the maximum monthly cash benefit for a family of three with no countable income is $292. Actual benefit amounts may be lower depending on the family’s earned income.
| Household Size | Payment |
|---|---|
| 1 | $180 |
| 2 | $225 |
| 3 | $292 |
| 4 | $361 |
| 5 | $422 |
| 6 | $482 |
| 7 | $544 |
| 8 | $598 |
How much is diversion assistance in Oklahoma?
Depending on the family’s financial need, the maximum diversion assistance is equal to 4 months of the payment standard for the applicable family size. For a family of three, that’s about $1,168 in a 12-month period.
| Household Size | Payment |
|---|---|
| 1 | $720 |
| 2 | $900 |
| 3 | $1,168 |
| 4 | $1,444 |
| 5 | $1,688 |
| 6 | $1,928 |
| 7 | $2,176 |
| 8 | $2,392 |
How do I apply for TANF in Oklahoma?
You can apply for TANF through OKDHSLive! or submit a “Request for Benefits” form in person at any Department of Human Services (DHS) office.
Once an application is initiated, an appointment will be scheduled for a face to face interview to complete the application process and determine your eligibility.
Oklahoma Department of Human Services
Customer Service / Benefits Assistance
(405) 522-5050
Does Oklahoma drug test for welfare?
Oklahoma requires all adults who applied for TANF to undergo mandatory drug screening, and those who tested positive are to be denied benefits for up to one year.
Children of adults who are denied benefits because of drug abuse would still be eligible to receive TANF benefits through a third-party who passes the drug screening.