You are probably wondering, “What is TANF?” because you heard the program offers financial assistance. TANF in New Mexico, known as NMWorks (NMW) program, provides low-income families with financial help. For a family to receive assistance from the program, they must meet eligibility requirements.

You can apply for TANF when you learn that your household qualifies for cash benefits. Completing a TANF application allows the Human Services Departments (HSD) to know you want to enter the program. Also, it lets your local facility learn about your family’s income and determine the amount of benefits your family should collect. Learn about the different qualifications you need to meet, how to apply and everything you need to know about TANF in New Mexico below.

Who qualifies for TANF in New Mexico?

There are specific TANF qualifications you must meet in order to receive financial assistance in New Mexico. If you do not meet the following guidelines, then you are unable to collect TANF benefits:

• Have a dependent child:
  • Your child needs to be 18 years of age or younger.
  • If your child is 19 years of age, then he or she must be a full-time high school student who graduates before the end of the month in which they turn 20 years of age.
• Your family must live in New Mexico.
• Your family needs to have citizenship or eligible alien status.
• Provide accurate information about your household’s monthly income.
• Meet New Mexico’s income requirements.

Although the program is federally funded, the state determines who is eligible for TANF benefits. In addition, there are TANF eligibility requirements you must fulfill when you are in the program. Adults receiving cash assistance must participate in the New Mexico Works Program. You will work with a service provider to find activities that suit you. If you do not fulfill your monthly work activity requirements the state has, then you will face payment sanctions and possible termination from the program.

 How to Apply for TANF in New Mexico

New Mexico allows residents to complete a TANF online application. The online method allows applicants to fill out the TANF application at any time. Also, you can print the application and mail or fax your documentation to your local HSD agency. If you do not have a printer or access to the internet, then you have the option of visiting a nearby HSD facility to apply for benefits.

Once you submit your TANF application, the next step is to complete the TANF interview. The majority of interviews are done in person. However, if you cannot attend an in-person interview due to an illness or disability, then you can request for a phone interview. Regardless of how your interview is completed, the worker conducting the interview will require for you to provide proof of the information on your application. The worker will give you a list of items you need in advance of your interview, so you have time to collect all the items and be ready for your interview.

How much cash assistance will I get in New Mexico?

“How much money do you get from TANF,” is a question you may be asking yourself because it is your first time receiving financial assistance. There is no set amount of TANF benefits families will receive. Every household collects the dollar amount that the program believes they need. One factor that goes into the amount of cash assistance you receive depends on your family’s income. A family with a greater income will receive less assistance than a family that has no source of income. Also, New Mexico determines TANF benefits by family size. For example, a family of five with no income will collect more TANF benefits than a family of three dealing with the same circumstances. For details on how to apply for TANF and more, download our informative guide.

How long does it take to get TANF benefits in New Mexico?

“When will I receive TANF benefits?” is something a lot of applicants wonder after submitting their TANF application. In New Mexico, you will receive a letter within 45 days. The letter will include details about the amount of benefits you will receive and more. If the program denies your application and you do not agree with the decision, then the state gives you the opportunity to appeal their decision.

How long can you receive TANF in New Mexico?

New Mexico has a TANF income limit of 60 months for adults. A child that is living with an adult who is ineligible due to the 60-month maximum is unable to receive cash assistance. Also, if you move to another state, then the number of months of TANF benefits you receive in New Mexico will count towards your monthly limit. For instance, if you move to New Hampshire and have received NMW benefits for 35 months, then you can only receive financial assistance in New Hampshire for 25 months.

Additionally, if your family is experiencing a hardship such as not being able to work due to medical reasons, then you can request for a hardship extension. Your local HSD facility will review your request and decide if you qualify for an extension.

How can I check my TANF status in New Mexico?

If you chose to complete a TANF online application, then you can check the status of your application online. You just need to login to the account you created to find your status. Also, you can call your local HSD office. They will ask for information, such as your TANF number and Social Security Number. This ensures that you are who you say you are. Additionally, you can visit your local DHS office. For more details on how to apply for TANF benefits, check out our comprehensive guide.