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Missouri TANF for Single Moms - Financial Help for a Divorced Woman

What is Missouri's TANF Program?

Missouri's TANF program, also known as Temporary Assistance (TA), offers temporary financial aid to families with children. It provides monthly cash benefits to help cover essential expenses like food, utilities, and rent. The program also emphasizes helping families achieve self-sufficiency through employment and education resources.

 

Who Qualifies for Missouri TANF?

To be eligible for Missouri TANF, 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 Missouri resident: You must live in Missouri 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.
  • Meet work requirements: There are work participation requirements for most TANF recipients.

 

Missouri TANF Income Level Limits

Here's a breakdown of the income limits for TANF eligibility in Missouri (effective October 1, 2023):

Family Size Maximum Gross Monthly Income
1 person (adult and 1 child) $727
2 people (adult and 2 children) $1,254
3 people (adult and 3 children) $1,565
4 people (adult and 4 children) $1,832
For families with 5 or more children, add ~$167 per additional child.  

Important Notes:

  • Income limits are subject to change. Be sure to visit the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) website for the most up-to-date information: https://dss.mo.gov/
  • Missouri considers assets (things you own) when determining eligibility. The limit is $1,000 for applicants and $5,000 for recipients.

 

Missouri TANF Monthly Payment Standard

The exact amount of your TANF benefit will be determined during your application process and is based on your family size and specific needs. It's important to note that Missouri has one of the lowest TANF benefit amounts in the country. Here's a table outlining the maximum monthly benefit amounts for Missouri TANF:

Family Size Maximum Monthly Benefit
1 person (adult and 1 child) $292
2 people (adult and 2 children) $292
3 people (adult and 3 children) $292
4 people (adult and 4 children) $292
For families with 5 or more children, add ~$13 per additional child.  

Additional Notes:

  • The table shows the highest benefit amount for all family sizes. Your actual benefit amount will likely be lower.
  • The benefit amount for Missouri TANF has not been increased since 1991.

 

What Does Missouri TANF 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.
  • Support Services: The DSS may collaborate with community organizations to offer additional support services, such as:
    • Food Banks and Pantries
    • Childcare Assistance (limited availability)
    • Housing Assistance (limited availability)

 

Getting Started with Missouri TANF

If you're a single mom facing financial hardship, Missouri TANF can be a resource, though the benefit amount is low. Here's how to get started:

  • Visit the Missouri Department of Social Services website: The website provides information about TANF eligibility requirements, the application process, and frequently asked questions: https://dss.mo.gov/
  • Call your local Family Support Division (FSD) office: A caseworker can answer your questions and guide you through the application process

 

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.

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