The Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) serves as a cornerstone for families within the state who are striving to overcome financial barriers. Tailored to aid low-income families with children, MFIP not only provides essential financial support, but also lays a pathway towards economic independence through its focus on work, education, and training.

The program is designed with a dual purpose: to offer immediate relief for families in need and to equip participants with the tools necessary for long-term self-reliance. By integrating direct financial assistance with comprehensive support services, MFIP aims to empower families, encouraging them to transition from dependence on aid to a stable, self-sustained future. This innovative approach reflects Minnesota's commitment to nurturing strong, resilient families capable of contributing to their communities and the broader economy.

Eligibility Requirements

In order to qualify for the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP), there are a few key requirements your family must meet, including:

Who Can Apply:

MFIP is designed for families with children and pregnant women. So, if you have kids or are expecting, this program may be for you.

Income and Assets:

Your family's income and assets will be evaluated to see if you qualify. Initially, your family can't have more than $10,000 in assets, which includes things like money in the bank, but makes an exception for one car per person over the age of 16 in your family. If you have more cars, they might count towards the $10,000 limit.

Lifetime Limit:

There's a limit on how long you can get cash help from MFIP. Most families can only get assistance for up to 60 months in total.

Other Requirements:

• You must live in Minnesota.
• You must be a U.S. citizen, a qualified noncitizen, or have legal residency in the U.S.
• You'll need to give the state the right to pursue child support from the other parent.
• You can't have received more than 60 months of assistance from any state before.

Families can stay on MFIP until their income is about 135 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. For example, in 2022, a family of three would qualify if they make around $31,091 or less per year.

Work Requirements:

If you're an adult in the MFIP program, you're expected to work or do work-like activities for a certain number of hours each week. This could be looking for a job, working, or training on the job. Your employment plan will fit your situation, especially if you're facing challenges like being ill, taking care of a sick child, or dealing with family violence.

Education and Young Caregivers:

If you're under 20, going to school might be your main job in this program. And if you're interested in more schooling as part of your job plan, you can discuss it with a job counselor to figure out the best path for you.

Using the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Card

If you're part of the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP), you'll receive your benefits through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which works a lot like a debit card. Each month, your MFIP money is put onto this EBT card. You can then use the card to buy things you need at stores that accept EBT, or you can even get cash out at ATMs.

It's a simple and secure way to make sure you can use your MFIP benefits without hassle, giving you the flexibility to manage your monthly expenses more easily.

MFIP Application Instructions

If you're interested in applying for the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP), there are a couple of ways to do so:

Online Application:

The quickest way is to apply online. Just visit MNbenefits.mn.gov, and fill out the application right on the website. It's convenient because you can do it from anywhere, so long as you have internet access.

Paper Application:

If you prefer paper, you can download the Combined Application Form (DHS-5223). Once you fill it out, you can either mail it or take it directly to your local county or tribal office. This method is best if you like having a physical copy of what you've filled out or if you're not as comfortable using the internet.

Both methods are designed to make the application process as smooth as possible, so you can choose the one that fits your needs the best.

The Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) is an important support system for low-income families and pregnant women within the state, offering a blend of financial assistance and guidance toward economic independence. By providing monthly benefits, MFIP ensures that families have the means to cover their basic needs while also encouraging participation in work-related activities. The program's comprehensive approach not only addresses immediate financial concerns, but also lays the groundwork for long-term stability through employment support, training, and educational opportunities.