(DailyChive.com) – Sometimes, we all need a little extra help. In today’s world it isn’t always easy to make ends meet. Whether someone loses a job or is having difficulty finding a job, or experiencing another type of hardship, you still need to pay the rent and put food on the table.
Fortunately, there are services in place that can help families during times of distress. There are so many reasons a family may be struggling, including health issues or any number of other reasons. When hardships strike, there is no shame in taking advantage of the many services available, that’s what they are there for.
What Is TANF?
Temporary Assistance For Needy Families, or TANF, is one such program. This program gives a helping hand to families who are struggling. TANF offers a variety of services including financial assistance, childcare assistance, job preparation, and more. These services are a lifeline during hard times.
How Do You Qualify For TANF?
There are guidelines for qualifying for TANF, and you will need to fill out an application and provide the required documents. Some of the guidelines include the following:
- You must be a resident of the state you are applying in. This is important and you will be denied if you can’t prove you are a resident. Some forms of proof include a utility bill or other mail with your name and address on it.
- You must be unemployed or very low-income. The income guidelines are strict and if you don’t qualify for TANF, you may qualify for other types of aid.
- You must have a child eighteen years of age or younger, or you must be pregnant.
- Or, you must be eighteen years of age or younger and the head of the household.
It is important to note that you will be required to report any changes to your family or income while you are receiving TANF. For example, if you find a job, or if a member leaves your household or is added to your household you must report it within the required time frame. Failure to do so could result in your benefits being cancelled and you may have to pay them back.
How Can TANF Help My Family?
Most people think of TANF as temporary financial assistance, and it does provide that. But there is a lot more to the program than just financial assistance. If you are laid off, not getting enough hours, or struggling to find work, Temporary Assistance For Needy Families can help you find employment. Some services include helping you create a resume, connecting you with job training programs, and other employment related services.
If you are a parent and you can’t afford childcare while you work or go to school, TANF can help you with daycare, providing either reduced or free daycare for your child(ren). This is a huge benefit for working parents who have to choose between employment or taking care of their children.
In addition to other services, you may also qualify for help with rent or with securing affordable housing.
Benefits for TANF vary from state to state. While you are receiving TANF you may also qualify for other services such as SNAP (food stamps) and other services. These programs are designed to offer temporary assistance to help families get back on their feet.
If you would like to learn more or apply for these services, head to the TANF website for your state. You can download your application and if you need assistance filling out your paperwork you can get it at your local office. TANF has been an invaluable resource for millions of families in their time of need.
Copyright 2023, DailyChive.com
