Ohio TANF for Single Moms - Financial Help for a Divorced Woman
Staff Contributor
Raising children as a single mom in Ohio requires immense strength and resourcefulness. But you don't have to face financial challenges alone. The state offers the Ohio Works First program, a Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, designed to support low-income families with children. Ohio Works First provides temporary financial assistance, employment and education resources, and valuable tools to empower you on your path towards stability for yourself and your kids.
Who Qualifies for Ohio Works First?
To be eligible for Ohio Works First, 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 an Ohio resident: You must live in Ohio and intend to stay in the state.
- Have dependent children: You must have at least one dependent child under 18 years old living with you (or 19 if attending school full-time).
- Meet income limits: Your family's countable income (which may differ slightly from gross income) must fall below the program's income thresholds.
- Meet work requirements: There are work participation requirements for most Ohio Works First recipients, with some exceptions.
Ohio Works First Income Level Limits
Unfortunately, Ohio doesn't publish specific income limits for Ohio Works First eligibility online. The program prioritizes serving families with the greatest financial need.
Getting an accurate idea of your eligibility requires contacting your local County Department of Job and Family Services (CDJFS). You can find the office nearest you by visiting the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services website: https://jfs.ohio.gov/
Ohio Works First Monthly Payment Standard
The benefit amount you receive is determined based on your family size, specific circumstances, and income. While specific figures aren't available, a family of three with no other income may receive up to $492 per month.
What Does Ohio Works First 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: Ohio Works First can help cover childcare costs so you can focus on work or training activities without childcare worries.
- Support Services: The CDJFS collaborates with community organizations to offer additional support services, such as:
- Food Banks and Pantries
- Housing Assistance (limited availability)
- Health Insurance Assistance
Steps to Get Ohio Works First
If you're a single mom facing financial hardship, Ohio Works First can be a valuable resource. Here's how to get started:
- Contact your local County Department of Job and Family Services (CDJFS):
- This is the most important step, as income limits and benefit amounts are determined at the local level. They can't be found online publicly.
- You can find your local CDJFS office by visiting the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services website: https://jfs.ohio.gov/
- Speak with a caseworker:
- A caseworker can answer your questions about eligibility requirements specific to your situation and income level.
- They will guide you through the application process and determine your potential benefit amount.
- Prepare for the application process:
- While specific documents may vary, generally you'll need to provide:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or qualified immigration status for all household members.
- Proof of Ohio residency.
- Birth certificates for your dependent children.
- Proof of income for all household members (recent pay stubs, Social Security statements, etc.).
- Verification of expenses (optional, but may help determine your benefit amount).
- Submit your application:
- The application process for Ohio Works First can be completed in person, by mail, online, or over the phone depending on your local CDJFS procedures. The caseworker you speak with will give you specific instructions.
- Attend an interview (if required): A caseworker may schedule an interview to discuss your application and circumstances in more detail.
- Wait for a decision: The CDJFS will process your application and notify you of their decision. Processing times can vary, so be patient.
Additional Tips
- Be prepared to answer questions about your household composition, income, expenses, and assets honestly.
- The application process may take some time, so be patient.
- You have the right to appeal a decision if your application is denied.
Here are some resources that you may find helpful:
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Don't hesitate to reach out to your local County Department of Job and Family Services for assistance on your journey towards stability for yourself and your children.
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.
