The Maryland Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) program offers an important safety net for families facing financial difficulties in Maryland. Aimed at supporting low-income families with dependent children, the TCA program provides temporary financial assistance to help cover essential living expenses. The program's goal is to encourage self-sufficiency through employment and training opportunities, mirroring the objectives of similar programs in other states.

In Maryland, TCA emphasizes not only immediate financial relief, but also long-term stability by requiring participants to engage in work activities or training programs. This approach ensures that families receive the support they need today while preparing for a more financially independent tomorrow.

Eligibility Requirements

In order to qualify for Maryland's Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) program, families and individuals must meet certain requirements, this includes:

Family and Individual Requirements:

• You need to cooperate with child support.
• You must participate in work activities.
• You have to follow the rules about substance abuse.
• If you're applying, you need to be living with a minor child as a parent or caretaker, or you can be a pregnant woman with no other children.
• You must be a U.S. citizen or a legal immigrant who qualifies for the program.
• A "child" means someone who is younger than 18, or under 19 and still in high school full-time.

Financial Requirements:

• Families must meet financial and technical eligibility criteria.
• Both earned and unearned income cannot exceed the set benefit level for the size of the family.
• Net income must be below a certain limit after deductions

Lifetime Limit:

• TCA has a 60-month (5-year) lifetime limit on receiving benefits. Recipients can use these benefits intermittently but cannot exceed 60 months in total unless they qualify for a hardship exemption.

Asset Eligibility:

• Generally, TCA does not consider the assets of most applicants when determining eligibility.
• For sponsored immigrants, there's a resource cap of $2,000.
• Sanctions can be applied for not following program rules, but families also have the option to apply for assistance with child care costs.

The Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS), which runs the TCA program, updates eligibility figures annually. For the most accurate and current information, it's best to consult the DHS website or contact a local DHS office. Remember, the rules are complex, and applying is the only sure way to determine eligibility.

Using the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Card

In Maryland, Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) benefits are paid to eligible recipients through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, much like a regular debit card. Each month, the TCA benefits are electronically loaded onto the EBT card, allowing recipients to conveniently access their funds.

You can use the EBT card to make purchases at stores that accept EBT payments or withdraw cash at ATMs. This system ensures a secure and efficient way for families to receive assistance, giving them the flexibility to manage their benefits according to their immediate needs.

Temporary Cash Assistance (TANF) Application Instructions

In Maryland, there are several convenient ways to apply for Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA), ensuring that those in need can easily access this support:

Online Application:

You can apply online by visiting the MyMDTHINK website, creating an account, and following the steps on the page.

In-Person Application:

If you prefer applying in person, you can visit your local Department of Social Services. The staff there can help you fill out the TCA application form and guide you through the process.

By Mail or Fax:

You can also request a TCA application form to be sent to you by mail or download it from the MyMDThink website. Once completed, you can mail or fax the form back to the Department of Social Services.

Once you've submitted your application, it will go through a review process. You may be asked to come in for an in-person interview at a nearby Social Services office.

The TCA program in Maryland is an important support system for families with low income. It offers financial assistance while also connecting people to jobs and other services to become more independent. It’s a key resource for families who are navigating hard times and working towards an independent future.