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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Enrollment Period
Open enrollment
States use a portion of their Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant funds to provide child care assistance to current TANF recipients and to low-income families transitioning off TANF, helping parents maintain employment. Unlike the Child Care and Development Fund, TANF child care assistance is not subject to federal child care regulations and eligibility criteria, so benefits, funding levels, and rules vary considerably by state. Some states transfer TANF funds to their CCDF program; others operate separate TANF-funded child care programs.
Answer each question — we'll show you exactly what applies to your situation.
Are you a current TANF recipient or have recently left TANF for employment?
What is your household income?
This program requires income at or below 80% of the Federal Poverty Level — that's the government's measure of what it costs to meet basic needs. Select your household size to see your exact dollar limit.
Count everyone who lives and eats with you — yourself, spouse/partner, children, and any dependents. Count a pregnant woman as 2.
Do you have a dependent child requiring care?
Are you working, in job training, or in another activity required by the state TANF program?
Eligibility rules vary significantly by state?