Cash Assistance
Program Description:
As one of the components of the Family Investment Program, Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) provides cash assistance to needy families with dependent children when available resources do not fully address the family's needs and while preparing program participants for independence through work.
Some families which need only short-term assistance receive a welfare avoidance grant equivalent to three months of TCA benefits. The welfare avoidance grant is provided as a one-time lump sum payment.
Eligibility:
Adults with dependent children applying for or receiving TCA must meet financial and technical eligibility requirements. Conditions of eligibility include cooperation with child support, participation in work activities and compliance with substance abuse provisions. Earned and unearned income cannot exceed the benefit level paid for the assistance unit size and assets are limited to $2,000.00. Sanctions may be imposed for not complying with program requirements
Accessibility:
Applications must be filed, face-to-face interviews are conducted and all financial and technical eligibility factors must be met prior to issuance of benefits.
Where to Apply:
- Apply at your Local Department of Social Services.
Click here for a list of local departments to apply in person. You may file an application by mail, fax or other electronic means or someone may drop an application off for you.
- Apply online: