Massachusetts TANF for Single Moms - Financial Help for a Divorced Woman
Staff Contributor
Having a conflict with your co-parent or partner? - Start Neutral Mediation
Being a single mom in Massachusetts takes determination and resourcefulness. But you don't have to navigate the challenges alone. The Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) offers the Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) program, a lifeline for low-income families. TAFDC provides temporary financial assistance, job training opportunities, and valuable resources to empower you to achieve stability and build a brighter future for yourself and your children.
What is Massachusetts TAFDC?
Massachusetts TAFDC is a federally funded program that offers temporary financial aid to families with children. It provides monthly cash benefits to help cover essential expenses like food, rent, and utilities. The program also emphasizes helping families achieve self-sufficiency through job training and education.
Who Qualifies for Massachusetts TAFDC?
To be eligible for Massachusetts TAFDC, 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 Massachusetts resident: You must live in Massachusetts 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.
Massachusetts TAFDC Income Level Limits
Here's a breakdown of the income limits for TAFDC eligibility in Massachusetts (effective October 1, 2023):
Family Size |
Maximum Gross Monthly Income |
1 person |
$513 |
2 people |
$648 |
3 people |
$783 |
4 people |
$912 |
For families of 5 or more |
Add $104 per additional child. |
Important Note: Income limits are subject to change. Be sure to visit the Department of Transitional Assistance website for the most up-to-date information: https://www.mass.gov/economic-assistance-cash-benefits
Massachusetts TAFDC Monthly Payment Standard
The exact amount of your TAFDC benefit will be determined during your application process and is based on your family size, specific needs, and housing situation (public housing vs. private housing). However, here's a table outlining the maximum monthly benefit amounts for Massachusetts TAFDC:
Family Size |
Maximum Monthly Benefit (Public Housing) |
Maximum Monthly Benefit (Private Housing) |
1 person |
$513 |
$553 |
2 people |
$589 |
$629 |
3 people |
$712 |
$752 |
4 people |
$839 |
$884 |
5 people |
$966 |
$1011 |
For families with 6 or more |
~$47 per additional child |
~$52 per additional child |
Additional Notes:
- The table shows the highest benefit amounts for each family size and housing situation. Your actual benefit amount may be lower depending on your circumstances.
- Massachusetts TAFDC offers a small housing supplement in addition to the base benefit amount.
What Does Massachusetts TAFDC Offer Beyond Cash Assistance?
- Job Training and Education: The program connects you with job training or educational opportunities to develop skills and qualifications for better-paying jobs. This can help you achieve long-term financial stability.
- Childcare Assistance: Massachusetts TAFDC can help cover childcare costs so you can focus on work or training activities without childcare worries.
- Support Services: The DTA collaborates with community organizations to offer additional support services, such as:
- Food Banks and Pantries
- Housing Assistance
- Health Insurance Assistance
Getting Started with Massachusetts TAFDC
If you're a single mom facing financial hardship, Massachusetts TAFDC can be a valuable resource. Here's how to get started:
- Visit the Department of Transitional Assistance website: The website provides detailed information about TAFDC eligibility requirements, the application process, and frequently asked questions: https://www.mass.gov/economic-assistance-cash-benefits
- Apply online: You can submit your application electronically through the webiste.
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.