The Michigan Family Independence Program (FIP) is an essential support system in Michigan, designed to provide financial assistance to low-income families, particularly those with children under 18 and pregnant women in need. This program, aligning with TANF guidelines in other states, offers time-limited benefits, typically available for a maximum of 48 months. This limitation underscores the program's focus on encouraging families to move towards self-sufficiency.

Through FIP, families not only receive immediate financial support, but also access to employment and training opportunities to help them become financially independent. As families approach the end of their eligibility period, they are supported through the process of reapplying, should they still qualify for further assistance.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Michigan Family Independence Program (FIP), certain requirements must be met, including:

Family Composition: A family must include at least one adult and one child. The adult should be the primary caretaker of a dependent child living in the household. A primary caretaker is responsible for the child's care and supervision. A dependent child is one who is not emancipated and lives with a caretaker. Eligible children must be under 18 years old or 18 and a full-time high school student. Note that a disabled adult child is not considered a dependent child for FIP.

Exceptions for Child's Presence: In some cases, a dependent child does not need to live in the household. Pregnant women may qualify for FIP. You may also be eligible if your child is in foster care but expected to return home within a year.

Residency and Other State Benefits: You must live in Michigan to qualify. Additionally, your family cannot receive cash assistance from another state while applying for FIP in Michigan.

Income and Asset Limits: FIP considers both income and assets, with limits based on your household size. The household includes the dependent child, their parents, and siblings if they are dependent. Countable income includes wages, child support, and Social Security benefits.

Some income types, like educational income, are not counted. Assets include real property (like land and buildings) and personal property (like cash, investments, and retirement accounts). However, some assets, such as your car and personal belongings, are not counted.

PATH Program and Work Rules: Adults applying for FIP must participate in the Partnership Accountability Training Hope program, which includes a 10-day assessment to address employment barriers. FIP benefits start after completing this assessment. Some people may be deferred from PATH due to reasons like disability or caring for a child with a disability.

Once receiving FIP, you must follow work rules, including completing a Jobs and Self-Sufficiency Survey and developing a Family Self-Sufficiency Plan (FSSP), which outlines weekly work activities (up to 40 hours per week). Failure to comply with work rules without good cause can `lead` to denial of the application, stopping of cash assistance, and counting of penalty months towards the 48-month lifetime limit.

Using the Bridge Card

In Michigan, benefits from the Family Independence Program (FIP) are paid through the state's Bridge Card, an electronic system similar to a debit card. This card allows FIP recipients to access their benefits in a convenient and secure manner.

Each month, the benefits are electronically loaded onto the Bridge Card, which can then be used for purchases at participating stores or to withdraw cash at ATMs. This system not only simplifies the process of distributing benefits but also provides recipients with immediate access to their funds, offering them flexibility in how they manage and utilize their assistance.

Family Independence Program (TANF) Application Instructions

There are a few different ways to apply for the Michigan Family Independence Program, including:

Online Application:

• Visit the MI Bridges website, Michigan's official portal for applying to state assistance programs.
• Follow the step-by-step process to complete and submit your FIP application.

In-Person Application:

• Visit your local Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) office.
• Obtain and fill out the FIP application form with the assistance of office staff, if needed.

By Mail:

• Request an FIP application form from your local MDHHS office or download it from the MI Bridges website.
• Complete the form and mail it back to the address provided.

By Phone:

• Call your local MDHHS office.
• Request to complete the FIP application process over the phone.

The Michigan Family Independence Program is a fundamental support system for Michigan's low-income families, offering not only financial assistance but also serving as a gateway to self-reliance through various employment and training initiatives.

This program plays a crucial role in assisting families to navigate through difficult times, while also equipping them with the necessary tools and opportunities to build a more stable and independent future. Through its comprehensive approach, the Michigan Family Independence Program demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering long-term economic stability and self-sufficiency among families across the state.

Michigan TANF Office

Address: Department of Health & Human Services
235 S. Grand Avenue
PO Box 30037
Lansing, MI 48909
(855) 275-6424