Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Job Opportunities and Basic Skills (JOBS) Programs
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program is intended to move low-income families from public assistance to self-sufficiency by providing cash assistance along with work readiness, training and job placement services.
The Job Opportunities and Basic Skills (JOBS) Program is a companion program that focuses on work-readiness, training and job placement services. The department contracts with Job Service North Dakota to provide these services to JOBS participants.
Fast Facts:
- North Dakota's welfare caseload peaked in 1994 at 6,500 cases
- In July 1997, when the state implemented welfare reform, 3,859 families were receiving TANF assistance
- In June 2003, the number of families receiving TANF cash assistance in the state totaled 3,277 including 5,982 children. At that time, the average monthly TANF benefit for a qualifying North Dakota household was $374
For additional information regarding the TANF/JOBS Programs, visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) page. In addition, the publications page also contains policy manuals, news, and reports.
To apply for TANF, complete the Application for Assistance and/or contact your local County Social Service Office.
To find out if you may be eligible for other state and federal programs, visit GovBenefits and complete the online survey. This is only a screening tool, and not all North Dakota programs are included in the GovBenefits tool. To determine if you are eligible for financial assistance programs in North Dakota, you must complete the application process.
Contact Us
For information related to application for benefits, program eligibility, or an existing case, contact your local County Social Services Office, OR direct your questions to the department.
Economic Assistance Policy Division
TANF / JOBS Programs
600 E Boulevard Dept 325
Bismarck ND 58505-0250
Phone: (701) 328-2332
Toll Free: (800) 755-2716 (ND Only)
TTY: (701) 328-3480
dhseap@nd.gov
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