TANF in Nebraska is called Aid to Dependent Children (ADC). The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families is a program that helps financially needy families for a limited time. What is TANF and what are its goals? The intention of the program is, ultimately, to enable self-sufficiently in families. The program provides cash assistance to eligible families so the children in the household can be taken care of. Caretakers are mandated to participate in work requirements to receive TANF benefits.

Needy and qualifying families can start the program by filling out a TANF application, which can be found online and in person. One of the primary TANF qualifications for eligibility is the presence of dependent children in the household. However, the amount of benefits awarded depends on the size of the household and total income. TANF benefits are granted in the form of an EBT card or direct deposits into a bank account.

Who qualifies for TANF in Nebraska?

While the program is aimed at low- and very low-income households, not all income-eligible families meet TANF qualifications, as there are specific earning limits comparable to the federal standards. TANF income limits permit collective household earnings that are less than 50 percent of the federal poverty line. In Nebraska, this income for a three-member household is between $700 and $800 earned per month. Families with larger households can earn higher incomes to qualify for TANF benefits. Regardless of income, a household’s countable resources cannot exceed a maximum monetary amount. This limit is different for a single-person home versus a household with multiple members.

TANF eligibility requirements specify that applicants must be Nebraska residents and either U.S. citizens or legal aliens. Eligibility includes the following participants:

• Pregnant women in their last trimester who are expecting their first child
• Parent(s), relatives or legal guardians caring for a minor (younger than 18 years of age)
• Parent(s), relatives or legal guardians caring for a child who is in high school or vocational school up to 19 years of age

Eligibility must be determined every six months. Households must stay within income limits to keep their benefits. Participants may receive a TANF denial of continuous benefits if they no longer qualify for the program. In addition, work-eligible caretakers are required to participate in an employment program.

How to Apply for TANF in Nebraska

To apply for TANF in Nebraska, interested applicants can first take a self-assessment to determine if the program is right for them. After confirming their eligibility, users can complete and submit the TANF online application electronically. Another method of submitting the application is to print and fill it out then mail it into a Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services office (DHHS).

To find your local office you can simply complete a search for “TANF office near me.” Local offices and community centers also have kiosks where you can complete the application if you do not have access to a computer or printer at home.

While you can apply for TANF benefits with just your name and contact information, supplying more information will expedite the process, as there can be delays with incomplete applications. The following are other pieces of information that you will need to provide in TANF application:

• Social Security Numbers of all members in the household
• Income from the last 30 days
• Names of all members of the household and their relationship to the applicant

To learn more about how to apply for TANF benefits, download our free detailed guide.

How much cash assistance will I get in Nebraska?

You might wonder, “How much cash assistance will I get in Nebraska?” after completing and submitting your application. As previously mentioned, Nebraska determines TANF benefits by family size and monthly income. A larger family, with at least one extra person, will receive approximately $70 more than a smaller family. For example, a family of three in Nebraska will receive about $360 in TANF benefits while a family of two will receive $290. However, these amounts can vary depending on other financial factors.

If you are still wondering, “How much money do you get from TANF?” then you can use a Nebraska TANF calculator to estimate your potential monthly deposits. A calculator can only give you an estimate of how much will you receive in TANF benefits, as the program’s application process may consider factors that you do not input.

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

Many applicants ask, “When will I receive my TANF benefits?” after they submit their application. Depending on the accuracy and details of the information provided, applicants can expect a response within 30 to 45 days of submitting the application. After they have been accepted into the program, benefits can begin once applicants activate their assigned DHHS card or their first monthly funds get deposited into a bank account. Funds are available not long after receiving an acceptance letter.

Other common questions are, “What time does TANF deposit” and, “What is TANF payment schedule?” Your personal deposit date and time can be different from other applicants. Usually, payments are deposited on the first day of every month, even if that day falls on a weekend

How long can you receive TANF in Nebraska?

TANF in Nebraska is offer for a limited time because the goal of the program is to help adults become more self-sufficient by providing extra cash assistance. The maximum length of time that a household can receive benefits is five years. TANF extensions can be granted to certain households with other special needs, but typically extensions are not available.

A common concern among TANF recipients is, “Do you have to pay back TANF?” Cash assistance awarded while in the program does not have to be paid back directly to the DHHS. Repayment is made through participation in work requirements and compliance with child support services. However, if applicants provide false information or do not update the state to changes in their income or details about the household members that would influence the benefit amount, then repayment of over-issued funds is a requirement.

How can I check my TANF status in Nebraska

Many applicants begin asking, “How do I check my TANF status?” during the waiting period when DHHS reviews applications. There are several ways you can check your status and you can choose whichever method suits you and your situation. If you completed the TANF online application, then you can log in with your account and check your status that way. For applicants who submitted their application by mail or in person, they can visit their nearest DHHS office and speak with a representative in person. Or, they can simply call the DHHS TANF number to inquire over the phone.

Discover more details about the federally funded program including the history of TANF and what you can purchase with TANF funds by downloading our comprehensive guide.