Across the country, needy families struggle to feed, clothe, and house their children—and for many, that’s a problem. Luckily, the federal and state governments recognize that the American people need some help, and they offer Louisiana financial assistance to people in need.
According to the official Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) in Louisiana, The FITAP program gives welfare to Louisiana families with kids “when the financial resources of the family are insufficient to meet subsistence needs.”
If that sounds like you, read on to discover what this program offers, who qualifies, how to apply, and more.
What Is TANF and Louisiana Financial Assistance?
The federal government of the United States supports state-run aid programs across the country to help families with children in need (including Louisiana residents). In Louisiana, the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program is known state-wide as the Family Independence Temporary Assistance Program or FITAP.
Essentially, Louisiana residents can receive cash benefits from the government through direct deposit or an EBT card (which is like a prepaid Visa gift card). And all you need to do in return is qualify and apply.
The ultimate goal of Louisiana financial assistance through TANF/FITAP is to prepare needy families to join the workforce and get off of welfare.
Who Qualifies for Louisiana Financial Assistance?
To qualify for FITAP, you need to meet certain requirements. You may be eligible for Louisiana financial assistance if you:
- live in Louisiana
- are a US citizen with a Social Security Number (SSN)
- are the parent or guardian of a child under the age of 18; are pregnant; or are under 18 and the head of your household
- are considered financially needy (depends on income and family size)
If you’re unsure of your eligibility, review the full list of qualifications for FITAP here. You can also contact the DCFS by calling 1-888-524-3578.
How to Apply for Louisiana Financial Assistance
The easiest way to apply for Louisiana Financial Assistance is online through the official government website. There is one application for all three of these programs: FITAP, SNAP, and KCSP.
You also have the option to print, fill out, and mail or drop off your paper application to Louisiana officials at any DCFS location.
Once your application is received, a caseworker will be assigned to you. After an in-person or phone interview, your worker will determine your family’s eligibility within 30 days. Your caseworker may require you to participate in the Strategies to Empower People Program (STEP) to receive job training, employment, and other supportive services.
How Soon Are FITAP Benefits Received?
Depending on how long your case takes to process, you may not receive benefits until 1-2 months after submitting your application. Once your case is settled, you’ll receive your benefits within the first five days of each month. Funds are usually accessible by 5 am the day after posting.
How Much Money Does FITAP Give Families?
In Louisiana, needy families receive $222 each month on average, but the amount you receive will change depending on your specific circumstances. This average number typically aligns with a single parent raising two children.
The monthly FITAP grant amounts generally follow this model:
- Two-person household: $188
- Three-person household: $240
- Four-person household: $284
- Five-person household: $327
More Resources for Needy Louisiana Families
FITAP and TANF are not the only programs designed to give financial assistance to families in LA. If you need government assistance in Louisiana, you may also be interested in receiving:
- Louisiana Unemployment Insurance (UI)
- Louisiana Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
- Louisiana Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
- LaCHIP and Medicaid (health insurance for uninsured children and adults)
- SNAP (also referred to as food stamps)
- KCSP (similar to FITAP, except for guardians such as aunts, uncles, or grandparents)
