TANF in Arizona, also referred to as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or cash assistance, is a program that aids families in meeting basic needs. It also helps to promote self-sufficiency by encouraging job search efforts. If asking, “What is TANF?” it is important to know that the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program is designed to aid families in obtaining employment and becoming self-sufficient while providing temporary financial assistance to help lift families from poverty.

Before you submit a TANF application in Arizona, it is strongly encouraged that you review the eligibility requirements for the program. TANF benefits eligibility and amounts are determined by a number of factors, including household makeup, income and expenses. Therefore, it is important to review these requirements prior to submitting your application in order to determine whether or not you may be eligible to receive cash assistance. To learn more about the cash assistance program in Arizona, review the information in the sections below.

Who qualifies for TANF in Arizona?

Before you apply for TANF in Arizona, it is important to review the eligibility requirements that must be met in order to receive aid from the Arizona cash assistance program. TANF eligibility requirements include but are not limited to the following:

• There must be an eligible child living within the home.
• You and your household must reside within Arizona.
• You must meet income limits for TANF cash assistance benefits.
• You must meet resource limits for TANF assistance.
• You must complete a Personal Responsible Agreement, which specifies compliance with JOBS programs.
• You must immunize your children and ensure that they are attending school.

Additionally, TANF qualifications must continue to be met throughout the time that you receive funds from the cash assistance program in order to continue to receive benefits. If you are not certain whether or not you meet these eligibility requirements, you can either complete the application process or screen for eligibility online. The Arizona TANF calculator will help you to determine whether or not you are eligible for assistance as well as the benefits that your family may potentially be eligible for.

Note: You can find detailed information about qualifying for TANF in our in-depth guide.

How to Apply for TANF in Arizona

TANF in Arizona can be applied for in a number of ways. A TANF application can be completed and submitted online, by mail, by fax or in person. In addition to finding an application online, you may request an application for the cash assistance program by contacting your local office and requesting that an application be mailed to you.

When applying for TANF in Arizona, you must be able to provide:

• Proof of citizenship and identity for everyone who is applying for benefits within a household.
• Alien registration cards, if there are any non-U.S. citizens who are applying for benefits within a household.
• Social Security Numbers (SSNs) for everyone in the household.
• Proof of household income.
• Complete statements for bank or credit unions for the most recent month.
• Proof of rent, mortgage, utility bills and child care expenses.

If you would like to apply for TANF online, you will still need to provide the required documentation to your local office. After submitting a TANF application, you will need to complete an eligibility interview  either in person or by phone. If you have not yet turned in your documentation, you may do so in an in-person interview. At the end of the interview, you will be told whether or not any additional documentation is needed.

How much cash assistance will I get in Arizona?

Arizona TANF benefits amounts will be determined by household size, income and applicable expenses. The amount of benefits that you may receive can also change if there are any changes to your household, such as a change in income or a change in household members. If you are wondering, “Do you have to pay back TANF in Arizona?” you typically do not. You will only be required to repay benefits you were not eligible to receive, such as in the case of a benefits overpayment, providing fraudulent information on your application or failing to report a change to your household.

TANF benefits by family size can also be altered if someone within the household is no longer meeting eligibility requirements, such as failing to make a reasonable effort to find work or if a child is not attending school.

Before asking, “What time does TANF deposit in Arizona?” it is also worth knowing that standard cash assistance benefits are provided on a monthly basis, typically the same day each month. However, you may also be eligible to receive a one lump-sum payment through the Grant Division Program. If you are interested in a one lump-sum payment, ask your interviewer for details.

Find out how much TANF assistance you may receive in our comprehensive guide.

How long does it take to get TANF benefits in Arizona?

You may be wondering, “When will I receive my TANF benefits in Arizona?” Once your application has been processed, a decision on your family’s eligibility will be made within 45 days from the date of your application. Once a decision has been made regarding your case, you will be mailed a letter with the results of the decision. If eligible for assistance, you will begin to receive regular cash assistance on a monthly basis, so long as you and your family retain eligibility. If you do not agree with the decision that was made, you have the right to go through the TANF appeals process.

Arizona TANF benefits will be provided through an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card, which can be used in a similar fashion to a debit card at approved ATMs and point-of-sale terminals. However, you may not use cash assistance benefits toward purchases at liquor stores, tobacco outlets, gambling establishments or adult entertainment establishments.

How long can you receive TANF in Arizona?

TANF in Arizona can be received for a maximum of 60 months within a lifetime. This five-year period does not need to be consecutive, and if you receive benefits in another state, the months that you received assistance in another state will count toward the 60-month limit. The lifetime limit does not apply to children within the household who are younger than 18 years of age.

How can I check my TANF status in Arizona?

If you completed a TANF online application in Arizona, you can monitor your results online. Alternatively, you can contact your local office in order to check on the status of your application. Information regarding an application can be provided both over the phone and in person.