About TANF

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program is designed to help needy families achieve self-sufficiency. States receive block grants to design and operate programs that accomplish one of the purposes of the TANF program.

The four purposes of the TANF program are to:

• Provide assistance to needy families so that children can be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives
• End the dependence of needy parents by promoting job preparation, work, and marriage
• Prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies
• Encourage the formation and maintenance of two-parent families

Help for Families
Contact
info.OFA@acf.hhs.gov