The Cash Assistance program is Arizona's implementation of the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, administered by the Arizona Department of Economic Security. This program is the state's cornerstone initiative for providing financial aid to low-income families, focusing on those with dependent children under 18 years of age, as well as pregnant women who meet the necessary eligibility requirements.

As with other state TANF programs, Cash Assistance benefits are time-limited. In Arizona, families can receive support for up to 12 months (60 months lifetime limit), with the possibility of extensions in certain situations based on the specific needs and circumstances of each family. When nearing the end of their benefit period under EMPOWER, families are required to submit a renewal application to ascertain their continued eligibility for assistance.

Eligibility Requirements

Applying for the Arizona Cash Assistance program is easy, with two main options available:

Online Application: Families can apply by visiting the Arizona Department of Economic Security's website. Applying online is quick and easy from anywhere with an internet connection.

In-Person Application: Alternatively, families can apply in person at any local Arizona Department of Economic Security office. This option is ideal for those who prefer face-to-face assistance or need additional support during the application process.

The Arizona Cash Assistance program is an important support system for low-income families in the state, aiming not only to provide financial aid but also to encourage self-sufficiency through employment and training opportunities.

Cash Assistance (TANF) Application Instructions

In Arizona, eligibility for the Cash Assistance program is based on several criteria. This ensures that that aid is directed to families most in need.

Family and Residency Requirements:

• Assistance is provided to needy families with dependent children.
• Applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified noncitizen residents.
• Residency in Arizona is also required.
• The family unit may include parents, minor children, and other dependent children.

Income and Resource Limits:

• The family's countable income must not exceed specific federal poverty levels:
  • 130% of the federal poverty level for families where a non-parent relative is the head of the household and requests assistance only for the dependent children.
  • 100% of the federal poverty level for all other families.
• The income test does not apply to families requesting Cash Assistance solely for a dependent child in the legal custody of the Department of Child Safety and placed in unlicensed foster care.

Adult Responsibilities:

• Adults receiving Cash Assistance benefits must sign a Personal Responsibility Agreement.
• They also must follow any requirements from the Jobs Program, DES Child Support Services, children's immunization guidelines, and school attendance if applicable.

This structure ensures that the Cash Assistance program in Arizona targets families in genuine need, focusing on both immediate financial assistance and long-term self-sufficiency through job participation and child welfare requirements.

One-Time Cash Assistance

The Cash Assistance program in Arizona includes an option for a one-time lump-sum payment through the Grant Diversion Program. This program is designed to provide substantial, immediate financial assistance to eligible families in certain situations.

Eligible families can receive a one-time large payment, instead of regular monthly benefits.

This program is particularly useful for families that may need a significant amount of money upfront to address immediate and specific financial challenges.

To learn more about this option and to determine eligibility, families should discuss the Grant Diversion Program with their eligibility interviewer during the application process.

This one-time payment option is a part of Arizona’s approach to providing flexible assistance to families in need, allowing for more tailored support that can address specific financial situations effectively. It's a critical tool in helping families overcome particular financial hurdles and aiding them in their journey towards stability and self-sufficiency.

Using the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Card

Applicants approved for the Cash Assistance program in Arizona will receive their benefits through the Quest Card, which is part of the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system. This card operates like a regular debit card, and requires activation and the creation of a secure Personal Identification Number (PIN) for security.

You can use the Quest Card to purchase necessary items at stores that accept EBT payments, and can also withdraw cash from ATMs for added convenience.. This system provides a secure and flexible way for recipients in Arizona to access their financial assistance, catering to their immediate needs while they work towards greater financial self-sufficiency.