Montana's TANF program is a support system for families in the state who are struggling financially, particularly those with children. It provides them with temporary financial assistance to cover basic needs, while also focusing on helping adults in these families gain better employment opportunities through various job training and educational programs. The main purpose of the program is to offer immediate financial relief while setting families on a path to self-sufficiency.

By assisting families during hard times and guiding them towards valuable training and stable jobs, Montana's TANF is an essential part of building stronger families and communities within the state. It strikes a balance between providing short-term aid and fostering long-term independence.

Eligibility Requirements

In order to qualify for Montana's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash assistance, families and individuals need to meet several requirements, including:

Family Composition:

Your household must include at least one child under the age of 18 (or up to 19 if they're a full-time student and attending school regularly). The program also supports pregnant women in their last trimester without other eligible children, as well as refugees with minor dependent children.

Income Limits:

Your family's monthly income must fall below a certain threshold, which varies depending on your household size. This rule ensures the program helps those who truly need financial support.

Resource Limits:

The total value of your family's assets must be under $3,000. This includes things like cash, bank accounts, and property, but your primary home and basic living items aren't counted.

Residency and Citizenship:

Applicants must live in Montana and plan to stay. You also need to be a U.S. citizen or meet certain non-citizen requirements.

Other Requirements:

Families must comply with several other state and federal guidelines. This includes cooperating with Child Support Enforcement to obtain child support from non-custodial parents, participating in program integrity checks, and committing to a Family Investment Agreement or Work Readiness and Community Engagement (WoRC) Employability Plan.

Work Activities:

Able adults in the household are expected to engage in work-related activities, such as job search efforts, employment, or job training programs, unless exempt for specific reasons.

This criteria ensures that TANF assistance is directed to Montana families most in need, while also encouraging self-sufficiency through employment and education support.

Using the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Card

If you qualify for TANF in Montana, your benefits will be paid through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. This card functions similarly to a debit card.

Every month, Montana will deposit your TANF benefit amount onto your EBT card. You can use this card to purchase necessary items for your family at stores that accept EBT. This includes food and basic household supplies. If you need cash, you can also use your EBT card at ATMs to withdraw money.

This EBT system makes accessing and spending your TANF benefits straightforward and efficient, allowing you to take care of your family's needs in a way that works best for you.

TANF Application Instructions

To apply for TANF in Montana, there are several options available:

Online Application:

• Visit apply.mt.gov to start your application.
• Follow the instructions to fill out and submit your TANF application online.

Phone Application:

• Dial the Public Assistance Helpline at 1(888)706-1535.
• You can ask for help with the application process or get answers to any questions you might have.

In-Person Application:

• Head to your nearest Office of Public Assistance.
• Ask TANF application form and fill it out with the help of a staff member, if needed

Email Application:

• You can request a PDF version of the TANF application by emailing the Office of Public Assistance at hhssspapplicationcustomersupport@mt.gov.
• Once you fill out the form, you can email it back or print and mail it to the provided address.

TANF is an important support program for Montana families facing financial struggles, offering assistance while encouraging paths to self-sufficiency. With a focus on providing temporary financial aid and opportunities for education and job training, the program is dedicated to helping families gain the stability and independence they need for a brighter future. Through its comprehensive support, TANF in Montana plays an essential role in strengthening communities and building a foundation for long-term success among its participants.