Wisconsin Works (W-2)
W-2 is one of Wisconsin’s time-limited work-based programs available to low-income parents and pregnant women who meet eligibility requirements.
W-2, commonly knowns as TANF, provides:
- Help in finding a job;
- Work experience, through supervised worksites;
- Vocational education and training;
- Case management services;
- Assistance with searching for housing, child care, and employment; and
- Assistance applying for SSI/SSDI.
The primary goal of the Wisconsin Works (W-2) is self sufficiency. The program offers W-2 participants cash payments of up to $653 a month for participating in job training and employment programs.
The W-2 program’s paid placements are:
- Community Service Job (CSJ);
- W-2 Transition
Under the Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) program, Wisconsin also provides temporary cash assistance to refugees during their first eight months in the United States.
If a refugee family has children under the age of 18, they may be eligible for Wisconsin Works (W-2) or SSI, if they are aged, blind, or disabled.
FAQ
How to qualify for W-2?
To qualify for Wisconsin Works (W-2) in Wisconsin, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen, legal alient or a lawful permanent resident.
- Be a resident of the state of Wisconsin.
- Be unemployed or under employed (working for very low wages).
- Be pregnant or have a child under age 19.
- Meet income and asset limit guidelines.
What is the income limit for W-2 in Wisconsin?
Parents with children whose family income is under 115% of the poverty level are eligible. The current income limit for a family of three is $2,474 per month.
There is also a $2,500 asset limit at application which includes savings accounts and any high-valued belongings.
If your children don’t live with you, Wisconsin offers Noncustodial Parent Services to help low-income noncustodial parents become self-sufficient and able to pay child support.
How much is W-2 in Wisconsin?
W-2 is not an entitlement. You are required by law to participate in work, or activities to help you get ready to work, in exchange for cash assistance.
For example, if you are placed in a Community Service Jobs (CSJ), you may receive a monthly payment of $653 for full-time participation.
Wisconsin is one of only two states that provides the same amount of TANF benefits to all families with no countable income, regardless of family size.
How do I apply for W-2 in Wisconsin?
Application for W-2 can be made in person at the local W-2 Agency or online via ACCESS website. An interactive interview is also provided at the ACCESS website to help you determine if you might be eligible for W-2.
Here’s a checklist of what to bring when you apply for W-2 in person.