Missouri Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) provides temporary financial assistance for residents who qualify. To learn more about what this program offers, who qualifies for TANF, and how to apply, follow along as we cover all that and more.
What Is TANF?
Missouri Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is a program that provides Temporary Assistance (TA) in the form of a monthly cash benefit to families with children. This financial assistance is meant to cover the costs of raising kids, such as clothing, utilities, and services.
The four goals of the TANF program are to:
- help families care for children in their own homes
- promote job preparation and work ethics to reduce dependence on financial assistance
- prevent pregnancies in unmarried couples
- encourage multi-parent households
Although the federal government supports the TANF program, state rules and regulations also apply.
Who Qualifies for The Missouri Financial Assistance Program?
The TANF program is intended for needy families in dire situations. Eligibility for this Missouri Financial Assistance Program depends on several factors. You must:
- live in Missouri
- be the parent or guardian of a child under the age of 18
- own less than $1,000 worth of resources (excluding one vehicle and your home)
- be unemployed, underemployed, or make less than the annual income limit
- have a Social Security Number for all members of your household (or be in the process of applying)
- answer questions about drug use and agree to take a drug test
The income threshold is often changing, and it also depends on the size of your family. If you have questions about your Missouri Financial Assistance eligibility, consider contacting a caseworker at the Missouri Family Support Division at 855-373-4636.
How to Apply for Missouri Financial Assistance
To apply for Missouri Financial Assistance, you can go to the official state website and follow the guidelines. The easiest way to apply for TANF is to apply online here.
You can also print, complete, and send the following four documents to Missouri officials:
- Application for Temporary Assistance Cash Benefits
- Temporary Assistance Orientation Acknowledgement
- Personal Responsibility Plan
- Child Support Forms
Once completed, you can send all the forms together:
- via certified mail to Family Support Division, 615 E 13th St, Kansas City, MO 64016
- via email to FSD.Documents@dss.mo.gov
- via fax to 573-526-9400
After submitting your application, a caseworker may contact you and request an interview before moving your case forward.
How Soon Are Benefits Received?
The Family Support Division hand reviews applications and supporting documents, which can take up to 10 business days. Once your application is processed, the FD will send you a letter informing you of your eligibility for TA benefits.
If approved, you will receive your benefits through an EBT card or a direct deposit to your bank account within 45 days. Then, you will receive a monthly benefit.
How Much Money Does TANF Give Families?
Missouri gives needy families about $200-$250 of welfare a month, but that number will change depending on your specific circumstances.
What Other Support Is There for Needy Families?
If you need more help, consider applying for Missouri’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP. SNAP benefits, which you might know as food stamps, are a type of financial assistance meant to help your family buy food.
You may also qualify for medical care through Missouri Medicaid if you are pregnant, a parent, or disabled.
There are many options in Missouri for free public assistance—including aid for food, healthcare, education, and more. Help is out there. Take action now for your family.
