RI Works

RI Works is Rhode Island’s primary cash assistance program for low-income families with children up to age 18 as well as pregnant women.

Because the overall goal of RI Works is to encourage families to work and become self-sufficient. Most families, including single parents, are mandated to work or participate in job search for at least 20 or 30 hours per week based on the age of their youngest child.

If you don’t meet the work requirements, your cash benefit could be reduced for up to 3 months or until you comply. After 3 months of non-compliance, the entire cash benefit to the family is ended.

FAQ

How do I qualify for RI Works?

Eligibility for RI Works is based primarily on income and asset limits. To be eligible, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

1. Be a U.S. citizen or legal alien, or permanent resident
2. Live in Rhode Island
3. Be pregnant or responsible for a child under 19 years of age
4. Be unemployed or under employed (working for very low wages)
5. Meet income and resource limits .

What is the income limit for TANF in Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, a family of three is considered “needy” if its countable income is less than $865 per month. The limit for countable resources is $5,000.

The income limits for families of different sizes are listed in the chart below.

How much cash assistance will I get in RI?

In Rhode Island, cash assistance amounts vary based on income, household size, and housing situation. A family of three with little or no income may receive up to $865 per month in cash benefits, or less if they live in public or subsidized housing. ¹

Other benefits include health coverage, child care assistance, food assistance through SNAP, and employment support services for enrolled parents.

How do I apply for RI Works?

You may apply for RI Works online through HealthSource RI  or in person at your local DHS office  near you. Once your application is received, an eligibility worker will set up a face-to-face interview to screen your likely eligibility.

If eligible, you’ll receive one half of the monthly cash benefit twice a month through an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card.

Rhode Island Department of Human Services
Customer Service Center
(855) 697-4347

What documents do I need to apply for TANF in Rhode Island?

When you apply for TANF cash assistance in Rhode Island, 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 RI Bridges (DHS) at (855) 697-4347 and they can tell you exactly what your application requires.