Rhode Island's TANF program, also known as Rhode Island Works, is an important resource for families across the state dealing with financial struggles. Aimed at supporting low-income households with children, Rhode Island Works offers a helping hand through financial assistance and focuses on guiding adults toward stable employment with various job training and educational programs.

The goal of the program is to empower families to become independent, highlighting Rhode Island's dedication to improving the lives of its residents. Through Rhode Island Works, the state commits to providing the necessary support for families to work their way toward a more secure and prosperous future, reinforcing the community's strength and resilience.

Eligibility Requirements

Rhode Island Works provides essential support to families facing financial difficulties, combining financial assistance with employment support services for a well-rounded approach. Here's what you need to know to see if you qualify:

Who Can Apply:

• You need to be caring for a child under 19, or be pregnant yourself.
• Families with little income and few assets, like savings or vehicles, are eligible.

What You Need:

• You must live in Rhode Island and either be a U.S. citizen or have eligible non-citizen status.
• Most families will need to meet work requirements, which might include job searching, training, or education.

Support Available:

• Besides cash assistance, you can get help with things like child care and transportation to make it easier to work or train for a job.
• The program also offers job readiness services to help you find and keep a job.

Financial Help:

• The amount of cash assistance you qualify for depends on your family size and income.
• There are asset limits too, but your home and one vehicle per adult (up to two) don't count against you.

Special Rules:

• Two-parent families have their own work requirements, and minor parents under 18 have to live with an adult and stay in school to be eligible.
• When parents are working, they can keep the first $300 of their earnings without it affecting their assistance.

Rhode Island Works aims to help families become self-sufficient by providing both immediate financial assistance and support to improve job prospects. The goal is for families to eventually become self-sufficient, with adults limited to receiving benefits for a total of 60 months.

Using the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Card

If your family qualifies for Rhode Island Works, you'll receive your benefits through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. This card is similar to a regular debit card. Each month, the state deposits your benefit amount onto this card. You can then use it to buy necessary things your family needs, like food and clothes, at stores that accept EBT cards. You can also use this card to withdraw cash from ATMs for other expenses.

This EBT card system makes it easy and safe for you to access and use your benefits, helping you manage your family's monthly budget more effectively.

Rhode Island Works Application Instructions

If you're interested in applying for Rhode Island Works, there are a few different ways you can get started:

Online Application:

The fastest way to apply is through the online Customer Portal. You can find this on the "Apply Now" page of the Rhode Island Department of Human Services website. This method allows you to submit all your information digitally, making the process quick and efficient.

By Phone:

If you prefer to speak to someone or need assistance, you can call 1-855-MY-RIDHS (1-855-697-4347). If you're hearing impaired, you can use the TTY number 1-800-745-5555. A representative will guide you through the application process and answer any questions you might have.

Paper Application:

For those who prefer or need to use a paper application, you can download one from the "Apply Now" page or pick one up from a local office. Once you've filled it out, you can submit it in person or by mail.

After You Apply:

Regardless of how you apply, once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by a caseworker. You might be asked to provide additional information or to come in for an interview to discuss your application further.

Applying for Rhode Island Works is designed to be accessible, offering multiple ways to apply so that families in need can easily request the support they require. Whether you choose to apply online, by phone, or with a paper application, you'll be guided through the process to ensure you understand each step.

Rhode Island Works is a program designed to support families in need by offering financial assistance and a range of employment support services aimed at helping participants become self-sufficient. It focuses on providing aid to low-income households with children, offering job readiness training, employment placement, and other vital services like child care and transportation. This initiative helps address immediate financial challenges while also preparing families for future stability, reflecting Rhode Island's dedication to empowering its residents and building stronger, more resilient communities.