The West Virginia Works program, the state's adaptation of the TANF initiative, stands as a pivotal resource for West Virginia families facing economic challenges. Designed with the needs of West Virginian families in mind, the program goes beyond simply providing financial aid, focusing instead on creating opportunities for lasting self-sufficiency for households with dependent children.

Emphasizing employment, education, and personal accountability, West Virginia Works gives families the tools and opportunities necessary to transition from dependency on government support to achieving stable employment. This program reflects West Virginia's commitment to nurturing strong, independent families and fostering a resilient community across the state.

Eligibility Requirements

In order to qualify for the West Virginia Works program, families must meet these requirements aimed at supporting self-sufficiency and child well-being:

Family Composition: The program defines a family as dependent siblings and their parent(s), the parent's legal spouse, and all dependent children of the spouse living in the same household. Families can be categorized as single parent or two-parent units, depending on the household structure, including step-parents, caretaker relatives, or an incapacitated adult. A caretaker relative can be an adult family member, like a grandparent, aunt, uncle, sibling, and their spouses.

Income and Asset Limits: Eligibility is determined through an income test and an asset test. Families must have assets totaling $2,000 or less, excluding the value of one vehicle, regardless of its worth. All income is considered, except for earnings of minor dependent children, tax refunds, the Earned Income Tax Credit, and SSI assistance.

Orientation and Personal Responsibility Contract: Applicants must attend a WV Works orientation session, where they learn about the program's work requirements and services. Following this, adult family members work with a case manager to create a Personal Responsibility Contract, detailing the steps needed to achieve self-sufficiency.

Support Services: Eligible families may receive support services based on need, both before and after employment, to aid in their journey to self-sufficiency. These services can include transportation, driver education, clothing, tool purchases, vehicle repairs, and licensing fees. For adults, pre-employment vision and dental care, as well as mental health and substance abuse counseling, are available if not covered by other plans.

For families with income at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level, additional support services are available even without cash assistance, focusing on employment-related needs to maintain or secure employment.

Through this criteria, West Virginia Works aims to provide a comprehensive support system to help low-income families move towards economic independence while ensuring the well-being of children.

Using the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Card

West Virginia Works program benefits are given to families using an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, much like a regular debit card. Every month, the money that families are eligible for is put onto this EBT card. Families can then use the card to buy things they need, like food and clothes, at stores that accept EBT, or even take out cash from ATMs for other expenses.

This way of distributing benefits is convenient, allowing families to easily access their funds while simplifying the management of their monthly budget.

West Virginia Works Application Instructions

Applying for the West Virginia Works program is straightforward, with two options to fit your needs:

In Person: You can visit your local County's Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) office to apply in person. The offices are open for applications on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, providing a chance for direct interaction with staff who can help with the application process and answer any questions.

Online Application: For added convenience, you can also apply online by visiting wvpath.wv.gov. The online platform guides you through the application process, allowing you to submit all necessary information from the comfort of your home or any location with internet access.

These application methods are designed to make the process as accessible as possible, ensuring you can choose the one that best suits your situation.

The West Virginia Works program provides support to families facing economic challenges, offering financial assistance along with opportunities for employment and self-improvement. Aimed at fostering self-sufficiency, the program provides a variety of services, including job training, education, and support for childcare and transportation, all designed to help participants find stable employment and ensure the well-being of their children.