Filling out a TANF application can be complicated. The form has a lot of different sections you have to fill out. Filling out a part of the application the wrong way can be the reason why you do not get benefits. It can be helpful to get some things together when you are about to apply.
The next step after you fill out the form is to decide how you want to send it in. You have to make sure that you send in the form to the right office in your state. Different states have different names for their TANF offices. Different states have different ways you can apply, too. You might be able to apply by mail, email, fax or in person. Learn more about how to apply for TANF below.
Find Out How to Get a TANF Application
The federal government gives money for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. But state offices handle applications. For example, if you live in North Dakota, you have to fill out the North Dakota Application for Assistance. If you live in Oregon, you have to fill out the Oregon Application for Services.
Some states have different names for TANF benefits, like Cash Assistance. States have different ways for you to get an application, too.
You should be able to get a TANF application form in person at the state office. You might be able to download an application online, too.
For more information on how to apply for TANF, download our free guide.
How to Fill Out Your TANF Application
Most states will let you apply for TANF in different ways. For example, Connecticut’s Department of Social Services lets you apply in person, online, by mail or by fax. You can pick the option that is most convenient for you. The most important thing is to make sure you fill out the application the right way.
The application will have a lot of sections that you have to fill out. For example, there will be sections where you have to put information about your identity and where you live. Make sure you put information that is accurate in the application. Make sure that you fill out the whole application, too.
If you put information that is wrong, you might not get benefits. If you leave a section blank, you might not get benefits, too.
Getting together some items and information can help you fill out the application the right way. Your paystubs and your housing bills (like rent and utilities) can help you with an important part of the application. You should also get documents that prove where you live and who you are. You will need these for yourself and for everyone in your house that will get benefits. The TANF office looks at factors like income to see if you qualify for benefits and how much assistance you can get.
Need help filling out your application? Your state office should be able to help you finish the form. You can call the office for help with translating or to get answers to any questions you might have. You can visit the office in person for help, too.
How to Send in Your TANF Application
After you fill out the TANF application, the next step is to send it in. If you are applying in person or online, you can send in your form as soon as you finish it. With the other options, you will have to write down the address where you want to send it to. The email address, fax address or mailing address where you can send the application should be on the form.
To learn more about how to submit your TANF application, download our free guide.
What happens after I send in my TANF Application?
The next step after you send in your TANF application form is to do an interview. Your local TANF office will call you and let you know when and where the interview will happen.
You will be asked to prove the information that you put on your application during the interview. You might be asked questions about you and your family, too. To get ready for the interview, get your documents together. The information you give will help the TANF office decide how much cash assistance you can get.
It can take up to 60 days for your TANF application to be looked at. Then you will find out if you are going to get TANF benefits. Remember that not finishing the application or giving the wrong information can hurt your chances of getting benefits.
If you get into the TANF program, your local office will let you know how much money you will get every month. If you don’t get into the program, your local office will explain the reason why. They will tell you about your option to apply again, too.