Temporary assistance for needy families (TANF)

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program provides cash assistance to low-income families with children while they strive to become self-sufficient. The program's goal is to reduce the number of families living in poverty, through employment and community resources

To qualify for TANF, families must have very few assets and little or no income. The current maximum monthly benefit for a family of three is $528. 

You can apply for TANF by downloading an application and instructions below.  You will need the Adobe Acrobat Reader software to view these PDF files. You can download the free software at http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html

These application forms should be printed and filled out by hand and then brought or sent to a local DHS Self-sufficiency office.

Other services

Many families in the TANF program receive help with needs such as employment, housing, child care, domestic violence and other factors that affect family stability.

Pre-TANF

The intent of the Pre-TANF Program is to provide initial screening and case management to families applying for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. This may include cash assistance as necessary to complete the plan and meet basic living expenses when other resources are not available.

Before Pre-TANF Program services begin, an assessment of the immediate unmet needs and strengths of the whole family is completed, eligibility is determined for Food Stamps and TANF-related medical benefits, and TANF eligibility factors are reviewed for presumed eligibility. A family may remain in the Pre-TANF program for as little as one day or up to 45-days, depending on the family's situation. 

Pre-TANF includes an orientation on activities and services available in the local area. Case workers and other agency partners will assist clients in identifying family strengths as well as needs.  While in Pre-TANF clients will:

• Learn about other resources that may be available, like child support or SSI (Social Security)
• Use job search and job readiness activities to find and prepare for work.
• Learn more about how to get the job they want.

In Pre-TANF, DHS can help pay for childcare and transportation while clients look for work. DHS can also help pay for items needed to start a job. Examples include uniforms, special tools and car repairs.

Post-TANF Program

The goal of the Post-TANF program is to provide parents who become ineligible for TANF due to income, a monthly grant of $100 for up to one year.  Post-TANF clients must stay employed and work a minimum number of hours per week.  This grant will help families with transitional expenses of employment.  There is an income cap of 250% of the federal poverty level. 

Some other services that may assist families are:

• Family Support & Connections
• Alcohol or drug assessment and treatment
• Child care
• Domestic violence
• Disability benefits
• JOBS employment and training program 
• Housing
• Mental health assessment and treatment
• Medical care

The TANF program is administered by the Children, Adults and Families (CAF) Division of the Department of Human Services (DHS). All services are provided through local DHS offices.

In addition, the Department of Human Services (DHS) works with the Department of Justice (DOJ) to help clients obtain child support from absent parents.  For help getting child support payments, contact Department of Justice.

Also see:   

• Oregon Helps, a Web site that can help you find out if you might be eligible for several programs that serve families and children.
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Policy