Texas TANF provides financial and medical assistance to needy dependent children and the parents or grandparents with whom they are living.
In Texas, TANF serves only very poor families with children. An adult without children is not eligible to receive cash assistance.
As the focus of TANF is self-sufficiency through work, families who receive cash assistance must actively seek employment or participate in work activities.
Unless exempted for good cause, they are required to work at least 30 hours per week or participate for at least 20 hours a week in approved work activities.
If they do not comply, they will be denied benefits.
FAQ
Who qualifies for TANF in Texas?
To be eligible for TANF in Texas, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal alien, or permanent resident.
- Be a resident of the state of Texas.
- Be responsible for a child age 18 and younger.
- Be unemployed or under employed with very low wages.
- Meet income and resource limits.
What is the income limit for TANF in Texas?
Texas has some of the most stringent TANF eligibility in the country. Eligibility is limited to very low-income families with assets not exceeding $1,000 and countable income of not more than $188 per month for a single parent or caretaker with two children.
The following table show the amount of money (income) a person or family may earn and still be eligible for the program.
How much money do I get from TANF in Texas?
How much money you get from TANF in Texas largely depends on several factors including your family’s income, household size, and other criteria.
For example, a family of three with no income may receive up to $370 per month in cash benefits. For child-only cases, the benefits are typically lesser.
How much is a one time TANF payment in Texas?
One-Time TANF (OTTANF) of up to $1,000 in cash is also available for families in crisis — including losing a job, losing a home, or a medical emergency.
However, this lump-sum cash payment can be given only once in a 12-month period to those who qualify.
To receive a one-time TANF payment, families must meet the same eligibility requirements required for “TANF for Families.”
Under One-Time TANF for Relatives, Texas also gives certain relatives/grandparents a one-time $1,000 payment for taking care of one or more related children/grandchildren.
How long can I receive TANF in Texas?
TANF is intended to be a temporary means of support while families work towards self-sufficiency. Under the law, Texas limits receipt of TANF cash assistance to a total of 60 months.
How do I apply for TANF in Texas?
Application for TANF can be made online through Your Texas Benefits. If you need help applying for benefits, call (877) 541-7905 for assistance.
Cash benefits are issued on a monthly basis through the Lone Star Card that can be used in the same way any other debit card is used.