Rhode Island TANF for Single Moms - Financial Help for a Divorced Woman
Staff Contributor
Raising children as a single mom in Rhode Island requires determination and resourcefulness. But you don't have to go it alone. The state offers Rhode Island Works, a program that functions similarly to TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), designed to support low-income families with children. Rhode Island Works provides temporary financial assistance, employment and education resources, and valuable tools to empower you on your path towards stability for yourself and your kids.
What is Rhode Island Works?
Rhode Island Works offers temporary financial aid to families with dependent children. It provides monthly cash benefits to help cover essential expenses like rent, utilities, and food. The program emphasizes helping families achieve self-sufficiency through employment and education resources, with the goal of transitioning off of benefits in the long term.
Who Qualifies for Rhode Island Works?
To be eligible for Rhode Island Works, 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 Rhode Island resident: You must live in Rhode Island 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 gross monthly income must fall below the program's income thresholds.
- Meet work requirements: There are work participation requirements for most Rhode Island Works recipients, with some exceptions.
Rhode Island Works Income Level Limits
Here's a breakdown of the income limits for Rhode Island Works eligibility (effective July 1, 2023):
| Family Size |
Maximum Gross Monthly Income |
| 1 person (adult and 1 child) |
$824 |
| 2 people (adult and 2 children) |
$1,068 |
| 3 people (adult and 3 children) |
$1,278 |
| 4 people (adult and 4 children) |
$1,438 |
| For families with 5 or more children, add ~$160 per additional child. |
|
Important Note: Income limits are subject to change. Be sure to visit the Department of Human Services (DHS) website for the most up-to-date information: https://dhs.ri.gov/
Rhode Island Works Monthly Payment Standard
The exact amount of your Rhode Island Works benefit will be determined during your application process and is based on your family size, specific needs, and program category. Here's a table outlining the maximum monthly benefit amounts for Rhode Island Works (based on the Family Assistance program):
| Family Size |
Maximum Monthly Benefit (Family Assistance) |
| 1 person (adult and 1 child) |
$327 |
| 2 people (adult and 2 children) |
$449 |
| 3 people (adult and 3 children) |
$554 |
| 4 people (adult and 4 children) |
$634 |
| 5 people (adult and 5 children) |
$714 |
| For families with 6 or more children, add ~$80 per additional child. |
|
Additional Notes:
- The table shows the highest benefit amounts for the Family Assistance program category. Benefit amounts for other Rhode Island Works program categories may vary.
- Your actual benefit amount may be lower depending on your circumstances, such as if you live in subsidized housing.
What Does Rhode Island Works 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: Rhode Island Works can help cover childcare costs so you can focus on work or training activities without childcare worries.
- Support Services: The DHS 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 Rhode Island Works
If you're a single mom facing financial hardship, Rhode Island Works can be a valuable resource. Here's how to get started:
- Visit the Department of Human Services (DHS) website: The website provides information about Rhode Island Works eligibility requirements, the application process, and program details: https://dhs.ri.gov/
- Contact your local DHS office: A caseworker can answer your questions about eligibility for the specific Rhode Island Works program category that might be best suited for your situation, and guide you through the application process. You can find your local DHS office on the DHS website or by calling 1-855-697-4347.
- Gather required documents: Some documents you may need include:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or qualified immigration status for all household members.
- Proof of Rhode Island residency (such as a lease agreement or utility bill).
- 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).
- Complete the application: You can apply for Rhode Island Works online at https://dhs.ri.gov/, by mail, in person at your local DHS office, or over the phone with a caseworker.
- 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 DHS 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, and expenses honestly.
- Dress professionally for your interview (if required).
- Meeting deadlines and following instructions throughout the process is important.
- You have the right to appeal a decision if your application is denied.
Here are some resources that you may find helpful:
- Department of Human Services (DHS) website: https://dhs.ri.gov/
- Benefits.gov TANF information for Rhode Island: https://www.benefits.gov/benefit/1676
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Don't hesitate to reach out to your local DHS office 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.
