Kentucky TANF for Single Moms - Financial Help for a Divorced Woman
Staff Contributor
Raising a child on your own in Kentucky deserves respect and support. Kentucky's Transitional Assistance Program (K-TAP), the state's TANF program, understands that. K-TAP offers temporary financial assistance, job training opportunities, and valuable resources to empower single mothers to achieve stability and build a brighter future for themselves and their families.
What is Kentucky K-TAP?
K-TAP is a financial assistance program funded by the federal government and administered by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS). It provides temporary cash benefits to help low-income families with children meet basic needs like food, rent, and utilities. K-TAP also emphasizes helping families achieve self-sufficiency through job training and other support services.
Are You Eligible for Kentucky K-TAP?
To be eligible for Kentucky K-TAP, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen or have qualified immigration status: This includes legal permanent residents and qualified aliens.
- Be a Kentucky resident: You must live in Kentucky and intend to stay in the state.
- Have dependent children: You must have at least one dependent child under 19 living with you.
- Meet income limits: Your family's gross income (including your income and any income received by dependent children) must fall below the program's income thresholds.
Income Limits for K-TAP Eligibility
| Family Size |
Maximum Gross Monthly Income |
| 1 person (adult and 1 child) |
$1,890 |
| 2 people (adult and 2 children) |
$2,328 |
| 3 people (adult and 3 children) |
$2,766 |
| 4 people (adult and 4 children) |
$3,204 |
| For families with 5 or more children, add $438 per additional child. |
|
Source: https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/Pages/default.aspx
What Does Kentucky K-TAP Offer?
- Cash Assistance: K-TAP provides monthly cash benefits based on your family size and needs. The exact amount will be determined during your application process.
- Job Training and Education: The program connects you with job training or educational opportunities to develop skills and qualifications for higher-paying jobs. This can help you achieve long-term financial stability.
- Childcare Assistance: K-TAP can help cover childcare costs so you can focus on work or training activities without childcare worries.
Kentucky K-TAP Monthly Payment Standard
Here's a table outlining the maximum monthly benefit amounts for Kentucky K-TAP:
| Family Size |
Maximum Monthly Benefit |
| 2 people |
$200 |
| 3 people |
$270 |
| 4 people |
$340 |
| 5 people |
$410 |
| 6+ people |
Add $70 per additional child |
Additional Notes:
- The benefit amount you receive will be determined during your application process and is based on your family size, specific circumstances, and other factors like earned income and child support received.
- The table shows the highest benefit amounts for each family size. Your actual benefit amount may be lower.
Beyond Financial Aid: Support Services
K-TAP recognizes that financial assistance is just one piece of the puzzle. The program offers additional support services:
- Food Banks and Pantries: Supplemental groceries can address food insecurity, a significant concern for many single-parent households.
- Housing Assistance: Finding stable and affordable housing can be challenging. Partnering organizations may offer resources or guidance on securing housing options.
- Health Insurance: Staying healthy is important for you and your child. Kentucky may offer assistance with enrolling in Medicaid, the state's Medicaid program.
Getting Started with Kentucky K-TAP
If you're a single mom facing financial hardship, Kentucky K-TAP can be a valuable resource. Here's how to get started:
- Visit the Kentucky CHFS website: The website provides detailed information about K-TAP eligibility requirements, the application process, and frequently asked questions: https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/Pages/default.aspx
- Apply online: You can submit your application electronically through the Benefind portal: https://benefind.ky.gov
- Visit your local Department of Community Based Services (DCBS) office: A caseworker can guide you through the application process and answer any questions you may have.
Financial Help for Single Moms and Divorced Women by State:
Warning:
This post is neither financial, health, legal, or personal advice nor a substitute for the advice offered by a professional. These are serious matters, and the help of a professional is recommended as it can impact your future.
