Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program provides temporary financial assistance for pregnant women and families with one or more dependent children. The focus of TANF is on transitional services to help families achieve independence. TANF provides financial assistance to help pay for food, shelter, utilities, and expenses other than medical.

To qualify for TANF, a person must:

• Be pregnant or have a child under age 19 who lives with them. A child who is 18 must be a full time high school student. A pregnant woman (and her husband, if he lives with her) may qualify for help, even if they don't have any other children.
  
• Live in Illinois.
  
• You can be homeless and still qualify.
  
• Be a U.S. citizen or a Legal Permanent Resident for at least 5 years.
  
• Develop a plan with staff from the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) for becoming self-sufficient and follow it.
  
  TANF Benefits:
  
• Time-limited cash assistance for basic needs, such as food, clothing, housing, etc.
  
• Transitional services to help families become independent, such as GED preparation, vocational training, post secondary education, vocational rehabilitation, classes in basic English, help with child care, work stipends, job retention services, etc.
  
• Screening for issues related to substance abuse, mental health, and domestic violence, and referrals for available services to address them.
  
  Requirements for TANF Recipients:
  
• Most participants are required to work or participate in work-related activities. Teen parents under age 19 who have not received a high school diploma will be required to enroll in a GED course tofulfill the work requirement. An adult who works has their cash benefits reduced by only $1 for every $3 they earn. They continue to receive medical assistance, Food Stamps, and child care payments. A child's earnings are exempt.
  
• Most adults can receive TANF for a total of 60 months (five years) during their lifetime. The five years do not have to be consecutive. Under certain conditions, a family who has reached the 60-month limit may be approved for an exception to receive additional benefits.