Monthly cash aid and work support for very low-income families with children.
TANF provides temporary financial assistance while aiming to get families self-sufficient through work. Time-limited to 60 months lifetime in most states.
$492/month family of 3
Who qualifies
Families with children under 18, very low income (usually <50% FPL), and able/willing to participate in work activities.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-19. UnifiedAid is an independent service and is not a government agency. Applications and approval decisions are made only by the official agency.
Frequently asked questions
Who qualifies for TANF - Temporary Assistance for Needy Families?
Families with children under 18, very low income (usually <50% FPL), and able/willing to participate in work activities.
How much does TANF - Temporary Assistance for Needy Families pay?
Typical benefit: $492/month family of 3.
What documents do I need to apply?
Photo ID, SSN for all household members, Birth certificates, Proof of income, Proof of residency, School enrollment for kids.
How long does the application take?
Most people complete the application in about 35 minutes. Processing time varies by state but is typically 30 days or less.