The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: Responses to Frequently Asked Questions

Changes from July 16, 2020 to September 1, 2020

This page shows textual changes in the document between the two versions indicated in the dates above. Textual matter removed in the later version is indicated with ~~red strikethrough~~ and textual matter added in the later version is indicated with blue.

The Temporary Assistance for
~~July 16~~September 1, 2020 , 2020
Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant:
Gene Falk
Responses to Frequently Asked Questions
Specialist in Social Policy Specialist in Social Policy

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant funds a wide range of The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant funds a wide range of
Patrick A. Landers
benefits and services for low-income families with children. TANF was created in the Personal benefits and services for low-income families with children. TANF was created in the Personal
Analyst in Social Policy Analyst in Social Policy
Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996 (P.L. 104-193). This report responds to some Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996 (P.L. 104-193). This report responds to some

frequently asked questions about TANF; it does not describe TANF rules (see, instead, CRS frequently asked questions about TANF; it does not describe TANF rules (see, instead, CRS
Report RL32748, Report RL32748, The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: A Primer
For a copy of the ful report, For a copy of the ful report,
on TANF Financing and Federal Requirements, by Gene Falk). , by Gene Falk).
please cal 7-5700 or visit please cal 7-5700 or visit
www.crs.gov. www.crs.gov.
TANF Funding and Expenditures. TANF provides fixed funding for the 50 states, the District TANF provides fixed funding for the 50 states, the District
of Columbia, the territories, and American Indian tribes. The basic block grant totals $16.5 billion per year. States are als o of Columbia, the territories, and American Indian tribes. The basic block grant totals $16.5 billion per year. States are als o
required in total to contribute, from their own funds, at least $10.3 billion annually under a maintenance -of-effort (MOE) required in total to contribute, from their own funds, at least $10.3 billion annually under a maintenance -of-effort (MOE)
requirement. The basic block grant is not adjusted for changes in circumstances (e.g., inflation, population) over time. In requirement. The basic block grant is not adjusted for changes in circumstances (e.g., inflation, population) over time. In
FY2019, the TANF basic block grant was 37% below what its value (adjusting for inflation) was in FY1997. FY2019, the TANF basic block grant was 37% below what its value (adjusting for inflation) was in FY1997.
Though TANF is best known for funding assistance payments for needy families with children, the block grant and MOE Though TANF is best known for funding assistance payments for needy families with children, the block grant and MOE
funds are used for a wide variety of benefits and activities. In FY2018, expenditures on assistance totaled $6.7 billion—21% funds are used for a wide variety of benefits and activities. In FY2018, expenditures on assistance totaled $6.7 billion—21%
of total federal TANF and MOE dollars. Assistance is often—but not exclusively—paid as cash. In addition to funding basic of total federal TANF and MOE dollars. Assistance is often—but not exclusively—paid as cash. In addition to funding basic
assistance, TANF also contributes funds for child care, employment services (for both assistance recipients and others), state assistance, TANF also contributes funds for child care, employment services (for both assistance recipients and others), state
refundable tax credits for low income families, pre-Kindergarten and Head Start programs, and services for children who refundable tax credits for low income families, pre-Kindergarten and Head Start programs, and services for children who
have been, or are at risk of being, abused and neglected. Some states also count expenditures in prekindergarten programs have been, or are at risk of being, abused and neglected. Some states also count expenditures in prekindergarten programs
toward the MOE requirement. toward the MOE requirement.
The TANF Assistance Caseload. A total of 1.1 million families, composed of 2.9 million recipients, received TANF- or A total of 1.1 million families, composed of 2.9 million recipients, received TANF- or
MOE-funded assistance in September 2019MOE-funded assistance in September 2019 ~~(as of June 2020, the latest data available)~~. The bulk of the “recipients” were The bulk of the “recipients” were
children—2.1 million in that month. The assistance caseload is heterogeneous. The type of family once thought of as the children—2.1 million in that month. The assistance caseload is heterogeneous. The type of family once thought of as the
“typical” assistance family“typical” assistance family —one with an unemployed adult recipient—accounted for 32% of all families on the rolls in —one with an unemployed adult recipient—accounted for 32% of all families on the rolls in
FY2018. Additionally, 27% of cash assistance families had an employed adult, while 41% of all TANF families were “child-FY2018. Additionally, 27% of cash assistance families had an employed adult, while 41% of all TANF families were “child-
only” and had no adult recipient. Child-only families include those with disabled adults receiving Supplemental Security only” and had no adult recipient. Child-only families include those with disabled adults receiving Supplemental Security
Income (SSI), adults who are nonparents (e.g., grandparents, aunts, uncles) caring for children, and families consisting of Income (SSI), adults who are nonparents (e.g., grandparents, aunts, uncles) caring for children, and families consisting of
citizen children and ineligible noncitizen parents. citizen children and ineligible noncitizen parents.
Assistance Benefits. TANF assistance benefit amounts are set by states. In July 2018, the maximum monthly benefit for a TANF assistance benefit amounts are set by states. In July 2018, the maximum monthly benefit for a
family of three ranged from $1,039 in New Hampshire to $170 in Mississippi. Only New Hampshire (at 60% of the federal family of three ranged from $1,039 in New Hampshire to $170 in Mississippi. Only New Hampshire (at 60% of the federal
poverty guidelines) had a maximum TANF assistance amount for this sized family in excess of 50% of poverty-level income. poverty guidelines) had a maximum TANF assistance amount for this sized family in excess of 50% of poverty-level income.
Work Requirements. TANF’s main federal work requirement is TANF’s main federal work requirement is ~~actually~~ a performance measure that applies to the states. a performance measure that applies to the states.
States determine the work rules that apply to individual recipients. TANF law requires states to engage 50% of all families States determine the work rules that apply to individual recipients. TANF law requires states to engage 50% of all families
and 90% of two-parent families with work-eligible individuals in work activities, though these standards can be reduced by and 90% of two-parent families with work-eligible individuals in work activities, though these standards can be reduced by
“credits.” Therefore, the effective standards states face are often less than the 50% or 90% targets, and vary by state. In “credits.” Therefore, the effective standards states face are often less than the 50% or 90% targets, and vary by state. In
~~FY2018,~~ FY2019, states achieved, on average, an all-family participation rate of states achieved, on average, an all-family participation rate of 4847.1% and a two-parent rate of .1% and a two-parent rate of ~~57.9%. In FY2018,~~
54.8%. In FY2019, only Montana did not meet the all-family participation standardonly Montana did not meet the all-family participation standard~~. This is a reduction from FY2012, when 16 states~~ and five jurisdictions (California, Montana, Nevada, Rhode Island, and Wyoming) did not did not
~~meet that standard. In FY2018, seven jurisdictions did not meet the two-parent standard. States that do not meet work~~
standards are at risk ~~of being penalized by a reduction in their block grant.~~meet the two-parent standard. The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is likely to affect states’ ability to meet TANF work standards. These standards are in statute and cannot be waived other than through legislation. However, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) can waive financial penalties for states that do not meet standards. In policy guidance, HHS has said it would use its authority to provide relief from the penalty for not meeting work standards “to the maximum extent possible.”
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

link to page link to page 1816 link to page link to page 2119 link to page 6 link to page 6 The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

Introduction
This report provides responses to frequently asked questions about the Temporary Assistance for This report provides responses to frequently asked questions about the Temporary Assistance for
Needy Families (TANF) block grant. It is intended to serve as a quick reference to provide easy Needy Families (TANF) block grant. It is intended to serve as a quick reference to provide easy
access to information and dataaccess to information and data. Appendix A provides additional data on families receiving TANF provides additional data on families receiving TANF
assistance over timeassistance over time. Appendix B presents a series of tables with state-level data on TANF presents a series of tables with state-level data on TANF
expenditures and families receiving assistance. expenditures and families receiving assistance.
This report does not provide information on TANF program rules (for a discussion of TANF This report does not provide information on TANF program rules (for a discussion of TANF
rules, see CRS Report RL32748, rules, see CRS Report RL32748, The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block
Grant: A Primer on TANF Financing and Federal Requirements, by Gene Falk). , by Gene Falk).
Funding and Expenditures
What Is TANF’s Funding Status?
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act; P.L. 116-136) funds The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act; P.L. 116-136) funds
TANF through November 30, 2020. TANF through November 30, 2020.
How Are State TANF Programs Funded?
TANF programs are funded through a combination of federal and state funds. In FY2018, TANF TANF programs are funded through a combination of federal and state funds. In FY2018, TANF
has two federal grants to states. The bulk of the TANF funding is in a basic block grant to the has two federal grants to states. The bulk of the TANF funding is in a basic block grant to the
states, totaling $16.5 bil ion for the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the states, totaling $16.5 bil ion for the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the
Virgin Islands, and American Indian tribes. There is also a contingency fund available that Virgin Islands, and American Indian tribes. There is also a contingency fund available that
provides extra federal funds to states that meet certain conditions. provides extra federal funds to states that meet certain conditions.
Additional y, states are required to expend a minimum amount of their own funds for TANF and Additional y, states are required to expend a minimum amount of their own funds for TANF and
TANF-related activities under what is known as the maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement. TANF-related activities under what is known as the maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement.
States are required to spend at least 75% of what they spent in FY1994 on TANF’s predecessor States are required to spend at least 75% of what they spent in FY1994 on TANF’s predecessor
programs. The minimum MOE amount, in total, is $10.3 bil ion per year for the 50 states, the programs. The minimum MOE amount, in total, is $10.3 bil ion per year for the 50 states, the
District of Columbia, and the territories. District of Columbia, and the territories.
How Much Has the Value of the TANF Basic Block Grant Changed
Over Time?
TANF was created in the 1996 welfare reform law, the Personal Responsibility and Work TANF was created in the 1996 welfare reform law, the Personal Responsibility and Work
Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (PRWORA, P.L. 104-193). A TANF basic block grant Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (PRWORA, P.L. 104-193). A TANF basic block grant
amount—both national y and for each state—was established in the 1996 welfare reform law. The amount—both national y and for each state—was established in the 1996 welfare reform law. The
amount established in that law for the 50 states, District of Columbia, territories, and tribes was amount established in that law for the 50 states, District of Columbia, territories, and tribes was
$16.6 bil ion in total. From FY1997 through FY2016, that amount remained the same. It was not $16.6 bil ion in total. From FY1997 through FY2016, that amount remained the same. It was not
adjusted for changes that occur over time, such as inflation, the size of the TANF assistance adjusted for changes that occur over time, such as inflation, the size of the TANF assistance
caseload, or changes in the poverty population. During this period, the real (inflation-adjusted) caseload, or changes in the poverty population. During this period, the real (inflation-adjusted)
value of the block grant declined by one-third (33.1%). Beginning with FY2017, the state family value of the block grant declined by one-third (33.1%). Beginning with FY2017, the state family
assistance grant was reduced by 0.33% from its historical levels to finance TANF-related research assistance grant was reduced by 0.33% from its historical levels to finance TANF-related research
and technical assistance. The reduced block grant amount is $16.5 bil ion. and technical assistance. The reduced block grant amount is $16.5 bil ion.
Table 1 shows the state family assistance grant, in both nominal (actual) and real (inflation-shows the state family assistance grant, in both nominal (actual) and real (inflation-
adjusted) dollars for each year, FY1997 through FY2019. In real (inflation-adjusted) terms, the adjusted) dollars for each year, FY1997 through FY2019. In real (inflation-adjusted) terms, the
FY2019 block grant was 37% below its value in FY1997. FY2019 block grant was 37% below its value in FY1997.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

1 1

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

Table 1. TANF Basic Block Grant Funding in Nominal and Constant Dollars
(In bil ions of $) (In bil ions of $)
Cumulative Change in
State Family Assistance State Family Assistance
the Purchasing Power of
Grant (50 states, DC,
Grant in FY1997
the State Family
Fiscal Year
territories, and tribes)
Dollars
Assistance Grant

1997 1997
$16.567 $16.567
$16.567 $16.567
1998 1998
16.567 16.567
16.300 16.300
-1.6% -1.6%
1999 1999
16.567 16.567
15.993 15.993
-3.5 -3.5
2000 2000
16.567 16.567
15.501 15.501
-6.4 -6.4
2001 2001
16.567 16.567
15.017 15.017
-9.4 -9.4
2002 2002
16.567 16.567
14.796 14.796
-10.7 -10.7
2003 2003
16.567 16.567
14.456 14.456
-12.7 -12.7
2004 2004
16.567 16.567
14.128 14.128
-14.7 -14.7
2005 2005
16.567 16.567
13.679 13.679
-17.4 -17.4
2006 2006
16.567 16.567
13.193 13.193
-20.4 -20.4
2007 2007
16.567 16.567
12.891 12.891
-22.2 -22.2
2008 2008
16.567 16.567
12.342 12.342
-25.5 -25.5
2009 2009
16.567 16.567
12.382 12.382
-25.3 -25.3
2010 2010
16.567 16.567
12.177 12.177
-26.5 -26.5
2011 2011
16.567 16.567
11.862 11.862
-28.4 -28.4
2012 2012
16.567 16.567
11.583 11.583
-30.1 -30.1
2013 2013
16.567 16.567
11.397 11.397
-31.2 -31.2
2014 2014
16.567 16.567
11.215 11.215
-32.3 -32.3
2015 2015
16.567 16.567
11.181 11.181
-32.5 -32.5
2016 2016
16.567 16.567
11.078 11.078
-33.1 -33.1
2017 2017
16.512 16.512
10.819 10.819
-34.7 -34.7
2018 2018
16.512 16.512
10.563 10.563
-36.2 -36.2
2019 2019
16.512 16.512
10.371 10.371
-37.4 -37.4
Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS), and the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Services (HHS), and the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Notes: Constant dol ars were computed using the Consumer Price Index for al Urban Consumers (CPI -U). Constant dol ars were computed using the Consumer Price Index for al Urban Consumers (CPI -U).
How Have States Used TANF Funds?
In FY2018, a total of $31.3 bil ion of both federal TANF and state MOE expenditures were either In FY2018, a total of $31.3 bil ion of both federal TANF and state MOE expenditures were either
expended or transferred to other block grant programs. Assistance—ongoing benefits to families expended or transferred to other block grant programs. Assistance—ongoing benefits to families
to meet basic needs—represented 21% ($6.7 bil ion) of total FY2018 TANF and MOE dollars. to meet basic needs—represented 21% ($6.7 bil ion) of total FY2018 TANF and MOE dollars.
TANF is a major contributor of child care funding. In FY2018, $5.3 bil ion (17% of al TANF and TANF is a major contributor of child care funding. In FY2018, $5.3 bil ion (17% of al TANF and
MOE funds) were either expended on child care or transferred to the child care block grant (the MOE funds) were either expended on child care or transferred to the child care block grant (the
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2 2

link to page 7 link to page link to page 7 link to page 2119 link to page link to page 2422 link to page link to page 2725

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

Child Care and Development Fund, or CCDF). TANF work-related activities (including education Child Care and Development Fund, or CCDF). TANF work-related activities (including education
and training) were the third-largest TANF and MOE spending category at $3.3 bil ion, or 11% of and training) were the third-largest TANF and MOE spending category at $3.3 bil ion, or 11% of
total TANF and MOE funds. TANF also helps low-wage parents by helping to finance state total TANF and MOE funds. TANF also helps low-wage parents by helping to finance state
refundable tax credits, such as state add-ons to the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). TANF and refundable tax credits, such as state add-ons to the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). TANF and
MOE expenditures on refundable tax credits in FY2018 totaled $2.8 bil ion, or 9% of total TANF MOE expenditures on refundable tax credits in FY2018 totaled $2.8 bil ion, or 9% of total TANF
and MOE spending. and MOE spending.
TANF and MOE funds also help fund state prekindergarten (pre-K) programs, with total FY2018 TANF and MOE funds also help fund state prekindergarten (pre-K) programs, with total FY2018
expenditures for that category at $2.6 bil ion. TANF is also a major contributor to the child expenditures for that category at $2.6 bil ion. TANF is also a major contributor to the child
welfare system, which provides foster care, adoption assistance, and services to families with welfare system, which provides foster care, adoption assistance, and services to families with
children who either have experienced or are at risk of experiencing child abuse or neglect, children who either have experienced or are at risk of experiencing child abuse or neglect,
spending about $2.4 bil ion on such activities. TANF and MOE funds are also used for short-term spending about $2.4 bil ion on such activities. TANF and MOE funds are also used for short-term
and emergency benefits and a wide range of other social services and emergency benefits and a wide range of other social services. Figure 1 shows the uses of shows the uses of
federal TANF grants to states and state MOE funds in FY2018. federal TANF grants to states and state MOE funds in FY2018.
Figure 1. Uses of TANF Funds by Spending Category, FY2018
(Dol ars in bil ions) (Dol ars in bil ions)

Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS). Services (HHS).
Note: Detail may not add to totals because of rounding. Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in Detail may not add to totals because of rounding. Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in
tribal TANF programs. tribal TANF programs.
For state-specific information on the use of TANF funds, se For state-specific information on the use of TANF funds, see Table B-1 a and Table B-2.
How Much of the TANF Grant Has Gone Unspent?
TANF law permits states to “reserve” unused funds without time limit. This permits flexibility in TANF law permits states to “reserve” unused funds without time limit. This permits flexibility in
timing of the use of TANF funds, including the ability to “save” funds for unexpected timing of the use of TANF funds, including the ability to “save” funds for unexpected
occurrences that might increase costs (such as recessions or natural disasters). occurrences that might increase costs (such as recessions or natural disasters).
At the end of FY2018 (September 30, 2018, the most recent data currently available), a total of At the end of FY2018 (September 30, 2018, the most recent data currently available), a total of
$5.1 bil ion of federal TANF funding remained neither transferred nor spent. However, some of $5.1 bil ion of federal TANF funding remained neither transferred nor spent. However, some of
these unspent funds represent monies that states had already committed to spend later. At the end these unspent funds represent monies that states had already committed to spend later. At the end
of FY2018, states had made such commitments to spend—that is, had obligated—a total of $1.4 of FY2018, states had made such commitments to spend—that is, had obligated—a total of $1.4
bil ion. At the end of FY2018, states had $3.7 bil ion of “unobligated balances.” These funds are bil ion. At the end of FY2018, states had $3.7 bil ion of “unobligated balances.” These funds are
available to states to make available to states to make new spending commitments spending commitments. Table B-3 shows unspent TANF funds shows unspent TANF funds
by state. by state.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

3 3

link to page 8 link to page link to page 8 link to page 2826 The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

The Caseload
How Many Families Receive TANF- or MOE-Funded Benefits and
Services?
This number is not known. Federal TANF reporting requirements focus on families receiving This number is not known. Federal TANF reporting requirements focus on families receiving
only ongoing assistance. There is no complete reporting on families receiving other TANF only ongoing assistance. There is no complete reporting on families receiving other TANF
benefits and services. benefits and services.
“Assistance” is defined as benefits provided to families to meet ongoing, basic needs.1 It is most “Assistance” is defined as benefits provided to families to meet ongoing, basic needs.1 It is most
often paid in cash. However, some states use TANF or MOE funds to provide an “earnings often paid in cash. However, some states use TANF or MOE funds to provide an “earnings
supplement” to working parents added to monthly Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program supplement” to working parents added to monthly Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
(SNAP) al otments. These earnings supplements are paid separately from the regular TANF cash (SNAP) al otments. These earnings supplements are paid separately from the regular TANF cash
assistance program. Additional y, TANF MOE dollars are used to fund food assistance for assistance program. Additional y, TANF MOE dollars are used to fund food assistance for
immigrants barred from regular SNAP benefits in certain states. These forms of nutrition aid meet immigrants barred from regular SNAP benefits in certain states. These forms of nutrition aid meet
an ongoing need, and thus are considered TANF assistance. an ongoing need, and thus are considered TANF assistance.
As discussed in a previous section of this report, TANF basic assistance accounts for about 21% As discussed in a previous section of this report, TANF basic assistance accounts for about 21%
of al TANF expenditures. Therefore, the federal reporting requirements that pertain to families of al TANF expenditures. Therefore, the federal reporting requirements that pertain to families
receiving assistance are likely to undercount the number of families receiving any TANF-funded receiving assistance are likely to undercount the number of families receiving any TANF-funded
benefit or service. benefit or service.
How Many Families and People Currently Receive TANF- or MOE-
Funded Assistance?
Table 2 provides assistance caseload information. A total of 1.1 mil ion families, composed of 2.9 provides assistance caseload information. A total of 1.1 mil ion families, composed of 2.9
mil ion recipients, received TANF- or MOE-funded assistance in September 2019 mil ion recipients, received TANF- or MOE-funded assistance in September 2019 ~~(as of June~~
~~2020, the latest data available)~~. The bulk of the “recipients” were children—2.1 mil ion in that . The bulk of the “recipients” were children—2.1 mil ion in that
month. For state-by-state assistance caseloads, month. For state-by-state assistance caseloads, sesee Table B-4. .
Table 2. TANF Assistance Caseload: September 2019
Families Families
1,090,066 1,090,066
Recipients Recipients
2,863,340 2,863,340
Child Recipients Child Recipients
2,106,950 2,106,950
Adult Recipients Adult Recipients
756,390 756,390
Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS). Services (HHS).
Notes: TANF cash assistance caseload includes families receiving assistance in state-funded programs counted TANF cash assistance caseload includes families receiving assistance in state-funded programs counted
toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement. toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement.

1 T he definition of T ANF assistance is not in statute. However, because the statutory language has most T ANF 1 T he definition of T ANF assistance is not in statute. However, because the statutory language has most T ANF
requirements triggered by a family receiving “assistance,” the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) requirements triggered by a family receiving “assistance,” the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
regulations define assistance at 45 C.F.R. §260.31. regulations define assistance at 45 C.F.R. §260.31.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

4 4

link to page 9 link to page link to page 9 link to page 1816

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

How Does the Current Assistance Caseload Level Compare with
Historical Levels?
Figure 2 provides a long-term historical perspective on the number of families receiving provides a long-term historical perspective on the number of families receiving
assistance from TANF or its predecessor program, from July 1959 to September 2019. The assistance from TANF or its predecessor program, from July 1959 to September 2019. The
shaded areas of the figure represent months when the national economy was in recession. Though shaded areas of the figure represent months when the national economy was in recession. Though
the health of the national economy has affected the trend in the cash assistance caseload, the long-the health of the national economy has affected the trend in the cash assistance caseload, the long-
term trend in receipt of cash assistance does not follow a classic countercyclical pattern. Such a term trend in receipt of cash assistance does not follow a classic countercyclical pattern. Such a
pattern would have the caseload rise during economic slumps, and then fal again during periods pattern would have the caseload rise during economic slumps, and then fal again during periods
of economic growth. Factors other than the health of the economy (demographic trends, policy of economic growth. Factors other than the health of the economy (demographic trends, policy
changes) also have influenced the caseload trend. changes) also have influenced the caseload trend.
The figure shows two periods of sustained caseload increases: the period from the mid-1960s to The figure shows two periods of sustained caseload increases: the period from the mid-1960s to
the mid-1970s and a second period from 1988 to 1994. The number of families receiving the mid-1970s and a second period from 1988 to 1994. The number of families receiving
assistance peaked in March 1994 at 5.1 mil ion families. The assistance caseload fel rapidly in assistance peaked in March 1994 at 5.1 mil ion families. The assistance caseload fel rapidly in
the late 1990s (after the 1996 welfare reform law) before leveling off in 2001. In 2004, the the late 1990s (after the 1996 welfare reform law) before leveling off in 2001. In 2004, the
caseload began another decline, albeit at a slower pace than in the late 1990s. During the caseload began another decline, albeit at a slower pace than in the late 1990s. During the ~~recent~~
2007-2009 recession and its aftermath, the caseload began to rise from 1.7 mil ion families in 2007-2009 recession and its aftermath, the caseload began to rise from 1.7 mil ion families in
August 2008, peaking in December 2010 at close to 2.0 mil ion families. By September 2019, the August 2008, peaking in December 2010 at close to 2.0 mil ion families. By September 2019, the
assistance caseload had declined to 1.1 mil ion families. As of assistance caseload had declined to 1.1 mil ion families. As of ~~June~~September 2020, TANF assistance 2020, TANF assistance
caseload data are unavailable for the early part of 2020, including months of the economic caseload data are unavailable for the early part of 2020, including months of the economic
recession associated with the recession associated with the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)~~COVID-19~~ pandemic. pandemic.
Figure 2. Number of Families Receiving Cash Assistance, July 1959-September 2019

Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), with data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Congressional Research Service (CRS), with data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS). Services (HHS).
Notes: Shaded areas denote months when the national economy was in recession. Information represents Shaded areas denote months when the national economy was in recession. Information represents
families receiving cash assistance from Aid to Dependent Children (ADC), Aid to Families with Dependent families receiving cash assistance from Aid to Dependent Children (ADC), Aid to Families with Dependent
Children (AFDC), and TANF. For October 1999 through September 201 9, includes families receiving assistance Children (AFDC), and TANF. For October 1999 through September 201 9, includes families receiving assistance
from Separate State Programs (SSPs) with expenditures countable toward the TANF maintenance of effort from Separate State Programs (SSPs) with expenditures countable toward the TANF maintenance of effort
requirement. Seerequirement. See Table A-1 for average annual data on families, recipients, adult recipients, and child recipients for average annual data on families, recipients, adult recipients, and child recipients
of ADC, AFDC, and TANF cash assistance for 1961 to 2019. of ADC, AFDC, and TANF cash assistance for 1961 to 2019.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

5 5

link to page link to page 3028 link to page 11 link to page 11 The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

Table B-5 shows recent trends in the number of cash assistance families by state. shows recent trends in the number of cash assistance families by state.
What Are the Characteristics of Families Receiving TANF
Assistance?
Before PRWORA, the “typical” family receiving assistance had been headed by a single parent Before PRWORA, the “typical” family receiving assistance had been headed by a single parent
(usual y the mother) with one or two children. That single parent had also typical y been (usual y the mother) with one or two children. That single parent had also typical y been
unemployed. However, unemployed. However, ~~over the past 20 years~~since 1996, the assistance caseload decline has occurred the assistance caseload decline has occurred
together with a major shift in the composition of the rollstogether with a major shift in the composition of the rolls.. Figure 3 shows the change in the size shows the change in the size
and composition of the assistance caseload under both AFDC (1988 and 1994) and TANF. In and composition of the assistance caseload under both AFDC (1988 and 1994) and TANF. In
FY1988, an estimated 84% of AFDC families were headed by an unemployed adult recipient. In FY1988, an estimated 84% of AFDC families were headed by an unemployed adult recipient. In
FY2018, FY2018, families with an unemployed adult recipient represented 32% of al cash assistance families with an unemployed adult recipient represented 32% of al cash assistance
families. This decline occurred, in large part, as the number of families headed by unemployed families. This decline occurred, in large part, as the number of families headed by unemployed
adult recipients declined more rapidly than other components of the assistance caseload. In adult recipients declined more rapidly than other components of the assistance caseload. In
FY1994, a monthly average of 3.8 mil ion families per month who received AFDC cash FY1994, a monthly average of 3.8 mil ion families per month who received AFDC cash
assistance had adult recipients who were not working. In FY2018, a monthly average of 394,000 assistance had adult recipients who were not working. In FY2018, a monthly average of 394,000
families per month families per month had adult recipients or work-eligible individuals, with no adult recipient or had adult recipients or work-eligible individuals, with no adult recipient or
work-eligible work-eligible individual working. individual working.
With the decline in families headed by unemployed adults, the share of the caseload represented With the decline in families headed by unemployed adults, the share of the caseload represented
by families with employed adults and “child-only” families has increased. The first category by families with employed adults and “child-only” families has increased. The first category
includes families in “earnings supplement” programs separate from the regular TANF cash includes families in “earnings supplement” programs separate from the regular TANF cash
assistance program. In FY2018, families with an employed adult comprised 27% of al TANF assistance program. In FY2018, families with an employed adult comprised 27% of al TANF
families. families.
Child-only TANF families are those where no adult recipient receives benefits in their own right; Child-only TANF families are those where no adult recipient receives benefits in their own right;
the family receives benefits on behalf of its children. The share of the caseload that was child-the family receives benefits on behalf of its children. The share of the caseload that was child-
only in FY2018 was 41%. In FY2018, families with a non-recipient, nonparent relative only in FY2018 was 41%. In FY2018, families with a non-recipient, nonparent relative
(grandparents, aunts, uncles) represented 16% of al assistance families. Families with ineligible, (grandparents, aunts, uncles) represented 16% of al assistance families. Families with ineligible,
noncitizen adults or adults who have not reported their citizenship status made up 10% of the noncitizen adults or adults who have not reported their citizenship status made up 10% of the
assistance caseload in that year. Families where the parent received Supplemental Security assistance caseload in that year. Families where the parent received Supplemental Security
Income (SSI) and the children received TANF also made up 10% of al assistance families in Income (SSI) and the children received TANF also made up 10% of al assistance families in
FY2018. FY2018.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

6 6

link to page 12 link to page 12

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

Figure 3. Characteristics of Assistance Families, Selected Years FY1988 to FY2018

Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS) tabulations of the TANF national data files. Congressional Research Service (CRS) tabulations of the TANF national data files.
Notes: TANF assistance caseload includes families receiving assistance in state-funded programs counted TANF assistance caseload includes families receiving assistance in state-funded programs counted
toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement. toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement.

TANF Cash Benefits: How Much Does a Family
Receive in TANF Cash Per Month?
There are There are no federal rules that help determine the amount of TANF cash benefits paid to a family. federal rules that help determine the amount of TANF cash benefits paid to a family.
(There are also no federal rules that require states to use TANF to pay cash benefits, though al (There are also no federal rules that require states to use TANF to pay cash benefits, though al
states do so.) Benefit amounts are determined solely by the states. states do so.) Benefit amounts are determined solely by the states.
Most states base TANF cash benefit amounts on family size, paying larger cash benefits to larger Most states base TANF cash benefit amounts on family size, paying larger cash benefits to larger
families on the presumption that they have greater financial needs. The maximum monthly cash families on the presumption that they have greater financial needs. The maximum monthly cash
benefit is usual y paid to a family that receives no other income (e.g., no earned or unearned benefit is usual y paid to a family that receives no other income (e.g., no earned or unearned
income) and complies with program rules. Families with income other than TANF often are paid income) and complies with program rules. Families with income other than TANF often are paid
a reduced benefit. Moreover, some families are financial y sanctioned for not meeting a program a reduced benefit. Moreover, some families are financial y sanctioned for not meeting a program
requirement (e.g., a work requirement), and are also paid a lower benefit. requirement (e.g., a work requirement), and are also paid a lower benefit.
Figure 4 shows the maximum monthly TANF cash benefit by state for a single parent caring for shows the maximum monthly TANF cash benefit by state for a single parent caring for
two children (family of three) in July 2018.2 The benefit amounts shown are those for a single-two children (family of three) in July 2018.2 The benefit amounts shown are those for a single-
parent family with two children.3 For a family of three, the maximum TANF benefit paid in July parent family with two children.3 For a family of three, the maximum TANF benefit paid in July
2018 varied from $170 per month in Mississippi to $1,039 per month in New Hampshire. The 2018 varied from $170 per month in Mississippi to $1,039 per month in New Hampshire. The
map shows a regional pattern to the maximum monthly benefit paid, with lower benefit amounts map shows a regional pattern to the maximum monthly benefit paid, with lower benefit amounts

2 States are not required to report to the federal government their cash assistance benefit amounts in either the T ANF 2 States are not required to report to the federal government their cash assistance benefit amounts in either the T ANF
state plan (under Section 402 of the Social Security Act) or in annual program reports (state plan (under Section 402 of the Social Security Act) or in annual program reports (~~unde r~~under Section 411 of the Social Section 411 of the Social
Security Act). T he benefit amounts shown are from the “Security Act). T he benefit amounts shown are from the “ Welfare Rules Database,” maintained by the Urban Institute Welfare Rules Database,” maintained by the Urban Institute
and funded by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). and funded by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
3 Some states vary their benefit amounts for other family types such as two 3 Some states vary their benefit amounts for other family types such as two -parent families or “child-only” cases. States -parent families or “child-only” cases. States
also vary their benefits by other factors such as housing costs and substate geography. also vary their benefits by other factors such as housing costs and substate geography.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

7 7

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

in the South than in other regions. Only New Hampshire (at 60% of the federal poverty in the South than in other regions. Only New Hampshire (at 60% of the federal poverty
guidelines) had a maximum TANF cash assistance amount for this sized family in excess of 50% guidelines) had a maximum TANF cash assistance amount for this sized family in excess of 50%
of poverty-level income.4 of poverty-level income.4
Figure 4. TANF Cash Assistance Maximum Monthly Benefit Amounts for a Single-
Parent Family with Two Children, 50 States and the District of Columbia, July 2018

Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the Urban Institute’s Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the Urban Institute’s Welfare Rules
Database. The welfare rules database has information for the 50 states and District of Columbia. It does not have . The welfare rules database has information for the 50 states and District of Columbia. It does not have
information on TANF assistance programs in Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands or tribal TANF information on TANF assistance programs in Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands or tribal TANF
programs. programs.
TANF Work Participation Standards
TANF’s main federal work requirement is actual y a performance measure that applies to the TANF’s main federal work requirement is actual y a performance measure that applies to the
states, rather than individual recipients. States determine the work rules that apply to individual states, rather than individual recipients. States determine the work rules that apply to individual
recipients. recipients.
What Is the TANF Work Participation Standard States Must Meet?
The TANF statute requires states to have 50% of their caseload meet standards of The TANF statute requires states to have 50% of their caseload meet standards of ~~partic ipation~~participation in in
work or activities—that is, a family member must be in specified activities for a minimum work or activities—that is, a family member must be in specified activities for a minimum
number of hours.5 There is a separate participation standard that applies to the two-parent portion number of hours.5 There is a separate participation standard that applies to the two-parent portion

4 In 2018, the HHS poverty guidelines for the contiguous 48 states and the District of Columbia4 In 2018, the HHS poverty guidelines for the contiguous 48 states and the District of Columbia for a family of three for a family of three
was $1,732 per month. Higher poverty lines applied in Alaska ($2,165 per month for a family of three) and Hawaii was $1,732 per month. Higher poverty lines applied in Alaska ($2,165 per month for a family of three) and Hawaii
($1,992 per month for a family of three). ($1,992 per month for a family of three).
5 Families without a work-eligible individual are excluded from the 5 Families without a work-eligible individual are excluded from the ~~participat ion~~participation rate calculation. It excludes families rate calculation. It excludes families
where the parent is a nonrecipient (for example, disabled receiving Supplemental Security Income or an ineligible where the parent is a nonrecipient (for example, disabled receiving Supplemental Security Income or an ineligible
noncitizen) or the children in the family are being cared for by a nonparent relative (e.g., noncitizen) or the children in the family are being cared for by a nonparent relative (e.g., ~~grandp arent~~grandparent, aunt, uncle) who , aunt, uncle) who
does notdoes not receive assistance on his or her behalf. receive assistance on his or her behalf.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

8 8

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

of a state’s caseload, requiring 90% of the state’s two-parent caseload to meet participation of a state’s caseload, requiring 90% of the state’s two-parent caseload to meet participation
standards. standards.
However, the statutory work participation standards are reduced by a “caseload reduction credit.” However, the statutory work participation standards are reduced by a “caseload reduction credit.”
The caseload reduction credit reduces the participation standard one percentage point for each The caseload reduction credit reduces the participation standard one percentage point for each
percentage point decline in a state’s caseload. Additional y, under a regulatory provision, a state percentage point decline in a state’s caseload. Additional y, under a regulatory provision, a state
may get “extra” credit for caseload reduction if it spends more than required under the TANF may get “extra” credit for caseload reduction if it spends more than required under the TANF
MOE. Therefore, the effective standards states face are often less than the 50% and 90% targets, MOE. Therefore, the effective standards states face are often less than the 50% and 90% targets,
and vary by state and by year. and vary by state and by year.
States that do not meet the TANF work participation standard are at States that do not meet the TANF work participation standard are at risk of being penalized of being penalized
through a reduction in their block grant. However, penalties can be forgiven if a state claims, and through a reduction in their block grant. However, penalties can be forgiven if a state claims, and
the Secretary of HHS finds, that it had “reasonable cause” for not meeting the standard. Penalties the Secretary of HHS finds, that it had “reasonable cause” for not meeting the standard. Penalties
can also be forgiven for states that enter into “corrective compliance plans,” and subsequently can also be forgiven for states that enter into “corrective compliance plans,” and subsequently
meet the work standard. meet the work standard.
Have There Been Changes in the Work Participation Rules Enacted
Since the 1996 Welfare Reform Law?
The 50% and 90% target standards that states face, as wel as the caseload reduction credit, date The 50% and 90% target standards that states face, as wel as the caseload reduction credit, date
back to the 1996 welfare reform law. However, the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 (DRA, P.L. back to the 1996 welfare reform law. However, the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 (DRA, P.L.
109-171) made several changes to the work participation rules effective in FY2007. 109-171) made several changes to the work participation rules effective in FY2007.
 The caseload reduction credit was changed to measure caseload reduction from  The caseload reduction credit was changed to measure caseload reduction from
FY2005, rather than the original law’s FY1995. FY2005, rather than the original law’s FY1995.
 The work participation standards were broadened to include families receiving  The work participation standards were broadened to include families receiving
cash aid in “separate state programs.” Separate state programs are programs run cash aid in “separate state programs.” Separate state programs are programs run
with state funds, distinct from a state’s “TANF program,” but with expenditures with state funds, distinct from a state’s “TANF program,” but with expenditures
countable toward the TANF MOE. countable toward the TANF MOE.
 HHS was instructed to provide definition to the al owable TANF work activities  HHS was instructed to provide definition to the al owable TANF work activities
listed in law. HHS was also required to define what is meant by a “work-eligible” listed in law. HHS was also required to define what is meant by a “work-eligible”
individual, expanding the number of families that are included in the work individual, expanding the number of families that are included in the work
participation calculation. participation calculation.
 States were required to develop plans and procedures to verify work activities.  States were required to develop plans and procedures to verify work activities.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA, P.L. 111-5), a law enacted in The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA, P.L. 111-5), a law enacted in
response to the sharp economic downturn of 2007-2009, held states “harmless” for caseload response to the sharp economic downturn of 2007-2009, held states “harmless” for caseload
increases affecting the work participation standards for FY2009 through FY2011. It did so by increases affecting the work participation standards for FY2009 through FY2011. It did so by
al owing states to “freeze” caseload reduction credits at pre-recession levels through the FY2011 al owing states to “freeze” caseload reduction credits at pre-recession levels through the FY2011
standards. standards.
What Work Participation Rates Have the States Achieved?
HHS computes two work participation rates for each state that are then compared with the HHS computes two work participation rates for each state that are then compared with the
effective (after-credit) standard to determine if it has met the TANF work standard. An “al -effective (after-credit) standard to determine if it has met the TANF work standard. An “al -
families” work participation rate is computed and compared with the al -families effective families” work participation rate is computed and compared with the al -families effective
standard (50% minus the state’s caseload reduction credit). HHS also computes a two-parent standard (50% minus the state’s caseload reduction credit). HHS also computes a two-parent
work participation rate that is compared with the two-parent effective standard (90% minus the work participation rate that is compared with the two-parent effective standard (90% minus the
state’s caseload reduction credit). state’s caseload reduction credit).
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

9 9

link to page 14 link to page link to page 14 link to page 1532 link to page 34

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

Figure 5 shows the national average al -families work participation rate for FY2002 through shows the national average al -families work participation rate for FY2002 through
~~FY2018~~FY2019. For the period FY2002 through FY2011, states achieved an average al -families work . For the period FY2002 through FY2011, states achieved an average al -families work
participation rate hovering around 30%. The work participation rate increased since then. In participation rate hovering around 30%. The work participation rate increased since then. In
FY2016, it exceeded 50% for the first time since TANF was established. However, it is important FY2016, it exceeded 50% for the first time since TANF was established. However, it is important
to note that the increase in the work participation rate has not come from an increase in the to note that the increase in the work participation rate has not come from an increase in the
number of recipients in regular TANF assistance programs who are either working or in job number of recipients in regular TANF assistance programs who are either working or in job
preparation activities. This increase stems mostly from states creating new “earnings supplement” preparation activities. This increase stems mostly from states creating new “earnings supplement”
programs that use TANF funds to aid working parents in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance programs that use TANF funds to aid working parents in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP, formerly food stamps) or who have left the regular TANF assistance programs Program (SNAP, formerly food stamps) or who have left the regular TANF assistance programs
for work.6 for work.6
Figure 5. National Average TANF Work Participation Rate for All Families,
FY2002- FY2019 ~~FY2002-FY2018~~

Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS)Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from based on data from ~~the U.S.~~ the Department of Health and Human Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS). Services (HHS).
How Many Jurisdictions Did Not Meet TANF Work Standards in FY2019? In FY2019, Montana was the only jurisdiction that did not meet its TANF w ork participation standard for al families. Montana also did not meet its standard in FY2018. In terms of the higher two-parent standard, five jurisdictions did not meet it for FY2019: California, Montana, Nevada, Rhode Island, and Wyoming. Table B-7 provides information for each jurisdiction on the TANF work standard, caseload reduction credit, and work participation rate for al families for FY2019. Table B-8 provides that information for two-parent families ~~How Many Jurisdictions Did Not Meet the All-Families Standard?~~
~~Figure 6~~ ~~shows which states and territories did not meet the TANF al -families work participation~~
~~standards from FY2006 through FY2018. Before FY2007, the first year that DRA was effective,~~
~~only a few jurisdictions did not meet TANF al -families work participation standards. However, in~~
~~FY2007, 15 jurisdictions did not meet the al -families standard. This number declined to 9 in~~
~~FY2008 and 8 in FY2009.~~
~~In FY2012, despite the uptick in the national average work participation rate, 16 states or~~
~~territories did not meet the al -family standard, the largest number of jurisdictions that did not~~
~~meet their participation standards in any one year since the enactment of TANF. FY2012 was the~~
~~year that ARRA’s “freeze” of the caseload reduction credit expired, and jurisdictions were~~
~~general y required to meet higher standards than in previous years.~~
~~The number of jurisdictions that did not meet the al -families participation standard declined over~~
~~the FY2012 to FY2018 period. In FY2018, Montana was the only jurisdiction that did not meet~~
~~this standard~~. .

6 See CRS In Focus IF10856, 6 See CRS In Focus IF10856, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families: Work Requirements. .
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

10 10

~~The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs~~

~~Figure 6. Jurisdictions That Met or Did Not Meet the TANF All-Families Work~~
~~Participation Standard: FY2006-FY2018~~
~~(Changes to TANF work participation standard rules under the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 [DRA],~~
~~ef ective in FY2007)~~

Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human
~~Services (HHS).~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

11

~~link to page 17~~ ~~The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs~~

~~Have Jurisdictions Met the Two-Parent Work Participation~~
~~Standard?~~
~~In addition to meeting a work standard for al families, TANF also imposes a second standard—~~
~~90%—for the two-parent portion of its cash assistance caseload. This standard can also be~~
~~lowered by caseload reduction.~~
Figure 7 shows whether each state or territory met its two-parent work participation standard for
~~FY2006 through FY2018. However, the display on the table is more complex than that for~~
~~reporting whether a jurisdiction met or did not meet its “al family” rate.~~
~~A substantial number of states and territories have reported no two-parent families subject to the~~
~~work participation standard. These jurisdictions are denoted on the table with an “NA,” indicating~~
~~that the two-parent standard was not applicable to the jurisdiction in that year. Before the changes~~
~~made by the DRA were effective, a number of jurisdictions had their two-parent families in~~
~~separate state programs that were not included in the work participation calculation. When DRA~~
~~brought families receiving assistance in separate state programs into the work participation rate~~
~~calculations, a number of jurisdictions moved these families into solely state-funded programs.~~
~~These are state-funded programs with expenditures not countable toward the TANF maintenance~~
~~of effort requirement, and hence are outside of TANF’s rules.~~
~~For jurisdictions with two-parent families in their caseloads, the table reports “Yes” for states that~~
~~met the two-parent standard, and “No” for states that did not meet the two-parent standard. Of the~~
~~29 jurisdictions that had two-parent families in their FY2018 TANF work participation~~
~~calculation, 22 met the standard and 7 did not.~~

~~Congressional Research Service~~

12

~~The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs~~

~~Figure 7.Two-Parent TANF Work Participation Standard, Status by State: FY2006-~~
~~FY2018~~
~~(“Yes” indicates a state met the standard; “No” indicates the state did not meet the standard; and “NA”~~
~~means the standard was not applicable to the state in that year [no two-parent families in its caseload].)~~

Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human
~~Services (HHS).~~
Note: A “qual.” state is one that qualifies because it has two-parent families within its TANF or SSP caseload.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

13The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs How Might the COVID-19 Pandemic Affect the Ability of States to Meet TANF Work Standards The COVID-19 pandemic is likely to affect states’ ability to meet their work participation standards. Employment losses, disruptions in education, and the inability of states to engage recipients in group activities (e.g., job clubs) could al result in lower participation in work or job preparation activities. Additional y, if the economic dislocation results in higher assistance caseloads, a state’s caseload reduction credit would be reduced, resulting in a higher effective (after-credit) participation standard for the state to meet. The rules governing the TANF work participation standards cannot be waived, other than through new legislation. However, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has the ability to reduce or waive the penalty on states for failing to meet the TANF work participation standard. HHS has said that it would exercise its authority to provide states with relief from the penalty for not meeting participation standards “to the maximum extent possible.”7 7 U.S. Department of Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Family Assistance, Questions and answers about TANF and the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID -19) pandem ic, T ANF-ACF-Pi-2020-01, https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ofa/resource/tanf-acf-pi-2020-01. Congressional Research Service 11

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

Appendix A. Supplementary Tables
Table A-1. Trends in the Cash Assistance Caseload: 1961-2018

TANF Child Recipients
As a
As a
Percentage
Percentage
Families
Recipients
Adults
Children
of All
of All Poor
Year
(millions)
(millions)
(millions)
(millions)
Children
Children
1961 1961
0.873 0.873
3.363 3.363
0.765 0.765
2.598 2.598
3.7% 3.7%
14.3% 14.3%
1962 1962
0.939 0.939
3.704 3.704
0.860 0.860
2.844 2.844
4.0 4.0
15.7 15.7
1963 1963
0.963 0.963
3.945 3.945
0.988 0.988
2.957 2.957
4.1 4.1
17.4 17.4
1964 1964
1.010 1.010
4.195 4.195
1.050 1.050
3.145 3.145
4.3 4.3
18.6 18.6
1965 1965
1.060 1.060
4.422 4.422
1.101 1.101
3.321 3.321
4.5 4.5
21.5 21.5
1966 1966
1.096 1.096
4.546 4.546
1.112 1.112
3.434 3.434
4.7 4.7
26.5 26.5
1967 1967
1.220 1.220
5.014 5.014
1.243 1.243
3.771 3.771
5.2 5.2
31.2 31.2
1968 1968
1.410 1.410
5.702 5.702
1.429 1.429
4.274 4.274
5.9 5.9
37.8 37.8
1969 1969
1.696 1.696
6.689 6.689
1.716 1.716
4.973 4.973
6.9 6.9
49.7 49.7
1970 1970
2.207 2.207
8.462 8.462
2.250 2.250
6.212 6.212
8.6 8.6
57.7 57.7
1971 1971
2.763 2.763
10.242 10.242
2.808 2.808
7.435 7.435
10.4 10.4
68.5 68.5
1972 1972
3.048 3.048
10.944 10.944
3.039 3.039
7.905 7.905
11.1 11.1
74.9 74.9
1973 1973
3.148 3.148
10.949 10.949
3.046 3.046
7.903 7.903
11.2 11.2
79.9 79.9
1974 1974
3.219 3.219
10.847 10.847
3.041 3.041
7.805 7.805
11.2 11.2
75.0 75.0
1975 1975
3.481 3.481
11.319 11.319
3.248 3.248
8.071 8.071
11.8 11.8
71.2 71.2
1976 1976
3.565 3.565
11.284 11.284
3.302 3.302
7.982 7.982
11.8 11.8
76.2 76.2
1977 1977
3.568 3.568
11.015 11.015
3.273 3.273
7.743 7.743
11.6 11.6
73.9 73.9
1978 1978
3.517 3.517
10.551 10.551
3.188 3.188
7.363 7.363
11.2 11.2
72.8 72.8
1979 1979
3.509 3.509
10.312 10.312
3.130 3.130
7.181 7.181
11.0 11.0
68.0 68.0
1980 1980
3.712 3.712
10.774 10.774
3.355 3.355
7.419 7.419
11.5 11.5
63.2 63.2
1981 1981
3.835 3.835
11.079 11.079
3.552 3.552
7.527 7.527
11.7 11.7
59.2 59.2
1982 1982
3.542 3.542
10.358 10.358
3.455 3.455
6.903 6.903
10.8 10.8
49.6 49.6
1983 1983
3.686 3.686
10.761 10.761
3.663 3.663
7.098 7.098
11.1 11.1
50.1 50.1
1984 1984
3.714 3.714
10.831 10.831
3.687 3.687
7.144 7.144
11.2 11.2
52.3 52.3
1985 1985
3.701 3.701
10.855 10.855
3.658 3.658
7.198 7.198
11.3 11.3
54.4 54.4
1986 1986
3.763 3.763
11.038 11.038
3.704 3.704
7.334 7.334
11.5 11.5
56.0 56.0
1987 1987
3.776 3.776
11.027 11.027
3.661 3.661
7.366 7.366
11.5 11.5
56.4 56.4
1988 1988
3.749 3.749
10.915 10.915
3.586 3.586
7.329 7.329
11.4 11.4
57.8 57.8
1989 1989
3.798 3.798
10.992 10.992
3.573 3.573
7.419 7.419
11.5 11.5
57.9 57.9
1990 1990
4.057 4.057
11.695 11.695
3.784 3.784
7.911 7.911
12.1 12.1
57.9 57.9
1991 1991
4.497 4.497
12.930 12.930
4.216 4.216
8.715 8.715
13.2 13.2
59.8 59.8
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

1412

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

TANF Child Recipients
As a
As a
Percentage
Percentage
Families
Recipients
Adults
Children
of All
of All Poor
Year
(millions)
(millions)
(millions)
(millions)
Children
Children
1992 1992
4.829 4.829
13.773 13.773
4.470 4.470
9.303 9.303
13.9 13.9
59.9 59.9
1993 1993
5.012 5.012
14.205 14.205
4.631 4.631
9.574 9.574
14.1 14.1
60.0 60.0
1994 1994
5.033 5.033
14.161 14.161
4.593 4.593
9.568 9.568
13.9 13.9
61.7 61.7
1995 1995
4.791 4.791
13.418 13.418
4.284 4.284
9.135 9.135
13.1 13.1
61.5 61.5
1996 1996
4.434 4.434
12.321 12.321
3.928 3.928
8.600 8.600
12.3 12.3
58.7 58.7
1997 1997
3.740 3.740
10.376 10.376
NA NA
NA NA
10.0 10.0
50.1 50.1
1998 1998
3.050 3.050
8.347 8.347
NA NA
NA NA
8.1 8.1
42.9 42.9
1999 1999
2.578 2.578
6.924 6.924
NA NA
NA NA
6.7 6.7
39.4 39.4
2000 2000
2.303 2.303
6.143 6.143
1.655 1.655
4.479 4.479
6.1 6.1
38.1 38.1
2001 2001
2.192 2.192
5.717 5.717
1.514 1.514
4.195 4.195
5.7 5.7
35.3 35.3
2002 2002
2.187 2.187
5.609 5.609
1.479 1.479
4.119 4.119
5.6 5.6
33.6 33.6
2003 2003
2.180 2.180
5.490 5.490
1.416 1.416
4.063 4.063
5.5 5.5
31.3 31.3
2004 2004
2.153 2.153
5.342 5.342
1.362 1.362
3.969 3.969
5.4 5.4
30.2 30.2
2005 2005
2.061 2.061
5.028 5.028
1.261 1.261
3.756 3.756
5.1 5.1
28.9 28.9
2006 2006
1.906 1.906
4.582 4.582
1.120 1.120
3.453 3.453
4.6 4.6
26.7 26.7
2007 2007
1.730 1.730
4.075 4.075
0.956 0.956
3.119 3.119
4.2 4.2
23.2 23.2
2008 2008
1.701 1.701
4.005 4.005
0.946 0.946
3.059 3.059
4.1 4.1
21.6 21.6
2009 2009
1.838 1.838
4.371 4.371
1.074 1.074
3.296 3.296
4.4 4.4
21.2 21.2
2010 2010
1.919 1.919
4.598 4.598
1.163 1.163
3.435 3.435
4.6 4.6
20.9 20.9
2011 2011
1.907 1.907
4.557 4.557
1.149 1.149
3.408 3.408
4.6 4.6
20.9 20.9
2012 2012
1.852 1.852
4.402 4.402
1.104 1.104
3.298 3.298
4.4 4.4
20.3 20.3
2013 2013
1.726 1.726
4.042 4.042
0.993 0.993
3.050 3.050
4.1 4.1
19.1 19.1
2014 2014
1.650 1.650
3.957 3.957
1.007 1.007
2.950 2.950
4.0 4.0
18.9 18.9
2015 2015
1.609 1.609
4.126 4.126
1.155 1.155
2.971 2.971
4.0 4.0
20.4 20.4
2016 2016
1.479 1.479
3.780 3.780
1.037 1.037
2.743 2.743
3.7 3.7
20.7 20.7
2017 2017
1.358 1.358
3.516 3.516
0,930 0,930
2.577 2.577
3.5 3.5
20.1 20.1
2018 2018
1.196 1.196
3.150 3.150
0.833 0.833
2.317 2.317
3.2 3.2
19.5 19.5
Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS) and the U.S. Census Bureau. Services (HHS) and the U.S. Census Bureau.
Notes: NA denotes not available. During transition reporting from AFDC to TANF, caseload statistics on adult NA denotes not available. During transition reporting from AFDC to TANF, caseload statistics on adult
and child recipients were not col ected. For those years, TANF children as a percent of al children and percent and child recipients were not col ected. For those years, TANF children as a percent of al children and percent
of al poor children were estimated by HHS and published in of al poor children were estimated by HHS and published in Welfare Indicators and Risk Factors, Annual Report to
Congress, Table TANF 2, p. A-7. See http://aspe.hhs.gov/hsp/14/indicators/rpt_indicators.pdf. , Table TANF 2, p. A-7. See http://aspe.hhs.gov/hsp/14/indicators/rpt_indicators.pdf.

Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

1513

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

Table A-2. Families Receiving AFDC/TANF Assistance by Family Category, Selected
Years, FY1988-FY2018

1988
1994
2001
2006
2018
Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Not Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Not
3,136,56 3,136,56
3,798,99 3,798,99
992,445 992,445
825,490 825,490
394,316 394,316
Working Working
6 6
7 7
Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Working Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Working
243,573 243,573
378,620 378,620
420,794 420,794
259,001 259,001
327,649 327,649
Child-Only/SSI Parent Child-Only/SSI Parent
59,988 59,988
171,391 171,391
171,951 171,951
176,670 176,670
116,859 116,859
Child-Only/Noncitizen Parent Child-Only/Noncitizen Parent
47,566 47,566
184,397 184,397
125,900 125,900
153,445 153,445
120,438 120,438
Child-Only/Other Ineligible Parent Child-Only/Other Ineligible Parent
51,764 51,764
146,227 146,227
91,447 91,447
158,113 158,113
3,007 3,007
Child-Only/Caretaker Relative Child-Only/Caretaker Relative
188,598 188,598
328,290 328,290
255,984 255,984
261,944 261,944
194,935 194,935
Child-Only/Unknown Child-Only/Unknown
19,897 19,897
38,341 38,341
143,834 143,834
122,738 122,738
70,205 70,205
Totals Totals
3,747,95 3,747,95
5,046,26 5,046,26
2,202,35 2,202,35
1,957,40 1,957,40
1,227,41 1,227,41
2 2
3 3
6 6
2 2
0 0

Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Not Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Not
83.7 83.7
75.3 75.3
45.1 45.1
42.2 42.2
32.1 32.1
Working Working
Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Working Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Working
6.5 6.5
7.5 7.5
19.1 19.1
13.2 13.2
26.7 26.7
Child-Only/SSI Parent Child-Only/SSI Parent
1.6 1.6
3.4 3.4
7.8 7.8
9.0 9.0
9.5 9.5
Child-Only/Noncitizen Parent Child-Only/Noncitizen Parent
1.3 1.3
3.7 3.7
5.7 5.7
7.8 7.8
9.8 9.8
Child-Only/Other Ineligible Parent Child-Only/Other Ineligible Parent
1.4 1.4
2.9 2.9
4.2 4.2
8.1 8.1
0.2 0.2
Child-Only/Caretaker Relative Child-Only/Caretaker Relative
5.0 5.0
6.5 6.5
11.6 11.6
13.4 13.4
15.9 15.9
Child-Only/Unknown Child-Only/Unknown
0.5 0.5
0.8 0.8
6.5 6.5
6.3 6.3
5.7 5.7

Totals Totals
100.0 100.0
100.0 100.0
100.0 100.0
100.0 100.0
100.0 100.0
Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS) tabulations of the FY1988 and FY1994 AFDC Quality Control Congressional Research Service (CRS) tabulations of the FY1988 and FY1994 AFDC Quality Control
(QC) data files and the FY2001, FY2006, and FY2018 TANF National Data Files. (QC) data files and the FY2001, FY2006, and FY2018 TANF National Data Files.
Notes: FY2001 through FY2018 data include families receiving assistance from separate state programs (SSPs) FY2001 through FY2018 data include families receiving assistance from separate state programs (SSPs)
with expenditures countable toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement. For FY2018, TANF with expenditures countable toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement. For FY2018, TANF
families with an adult recipient include those families with “work-eligible” nonrecipient parents. These include families with an adult recipient include those families with “work-eligible” nonrecipient parents. These include
nonrecipient parents who have been time-limited or sanctioned off the rol s, but the family continues to receive nonrecipient parents who have been time-limited or sanctioned off the rol s, but the family continues to receive
a reduced benefit. For FY2001 and FY2006, such families cannot be identified and are classified as “child -only” a reduced benefit. For FY2001 and FY2006, such families cannot be identified and are classified as “child -only”
families. families.

Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

1614

Appendix B. State Tables
Table B-1. Use of FY2018 TANF and MOE Funds by Category
(Dol ars in mil ions) (Dol ars in mil ions)
Emer-
Work,
gency
Other
Education,
Refund-
Pre-
Short-
Benefits
Child
and
able Tax
K/Head
Child
Administ-
Term
and
State
Assistance
Care
Training
Credits
Start
Welfare
ration
Benefits
Services
Totals
Alabama Alabama
$20.322 $20.322
$5.869 $5.869
$6.318 $6.318
$0.000 $0.000
$22.273 $22.273
$40.456 $40.456
$19.381 $19.381
$34.229 $34.229
$34.613 $34.613
$183.461 $183.461
Alaska Alaska
42.074 42.074
18.167 18.167
8.775 8.775
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
8.356 8.356
0.303 0.303
15.111 15.111
92.786 92.786
Arizona Arizona
41.697 41.697
2.547 2.547
0.377 0.377
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
227.246 227.246
19.510 19.510
9.483 9.483
33.361 33.361
334.222 334.222
Arkansas Arkansas
4.099 4.099
15.515 15.515
14.674 14.674
0.000 0.000
108.351 108.351
0.330 0.330
13.143 13.143
4.079 4.079
4.985 4.985
165.175 165.175
California California
2,329.995 2,329.995
742.572 742.572
1,778.602 1,778.602
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
0.003 0.003
536.493 536.493
254.368 254.368
951.812 951.812
6,593.846 6,593.846
Colorado Colorado
55.969 55.969
17.933 17.933
10.675 10.675
78.133 78.133
62.010 62.010
46.305 46.305
23.917 23.917
20.468 20.468
65.744 65.744
381.154 381.154
Connecticut Connecticut
50.236 50.236
39.992 39.992
11.732 11.732
56.444 56.444
76.203 76.203
62.230 62.230
36.063 36.063
19.726 19.726
145.736 145.736
498.362 498.362
Delaware Delaware
13.868 13.868
76.442 76.442
3.791 3.791
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
3.521 3.521
2.649 2.649
16.273 16.273
116.543 116.543
District of Columbia District of Columbia
114.482 114.482
59.117 59.117
29.873 29.873
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
9.730 9.730
67.559 67.559
8.899 8.899
289.659 289.659
Florida Florida
160.443 160.443
316.879 316.879
43.770 43.770
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
269.205 269.205
70.038 70.038
0.902 0.902
80.325 80.325
941.562 941.562
Georgia Georgia
95.550 95.550
22.183 22.183
10.626 10.626
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
247.792 247.792
19.767 19.767
4.672 4.672
89.556 89.556
490.146 490.146
Hawai Hawai
28.603 28.603
11.042 11.042
41.180 41.180
0.000 0.000
0.181 0.181
0.536 0.536
13.425 13.425
5.701 5.701
98.041 98.041
198.708 198.708
Idaho Idaho
8.219 8.219
13.637 13.637
2.759 2.759
0.000 0.000
1.509 1.509
1.507 1.507
7.759 7.759
12.651 12.651
1.506 1.506
49.547 49.547
Il inois Il inois
31.883 31.883
593.251 593.251
19.252 19.252
66.150 66.150
106.476 106.476
242.283 242.283
0.062 0.062
0.740 0.740
83.502 83.502
1,143.599 1,143.599
Indiana Indiana
14.744 14.744
118.452 118.452
83.762 83.762
27.530 27.530
0.000 0.000
9.337 9.337
24.102 24.102
0.388 0.388
136.557 136.557
414.873 414.873
Iowa Iowa
33.549 33.549
58.003 58.003
10.485 10.485
25.939 25.939
0.000 0.000
55.569 55.569
5.965 5.965
0.298 0.298
21.696 21.696
211.506 211.506
Kansas Kansas
13.026 13.026
6.673 6.673
1.021 1.021
49.902 49.902
15.198 15.198
24.611 24.611
11.446 11.446
0.001 0.001
43.604 43.604
165.480 165.480
Kentucky Kentucky
172.118 172.118
36.051 36.051
29.026 29.026
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
11.201 11.201
0.000 0.000
13.154 13.154
261.549 261.549
CRS- CRS-1715

Emer-
Work,
gency
Other
Education,
Refund-
Pre-
Short-
Benefits
Child
and
able Tax
K/Head
Child
Administ-
Term
and
State
Assistance
Care
Training
Credits
Start
Welfare
ration
Benefits
Services
Totals
Louisiana Louisiana
19.673 19.673
11.122 11.122
33.016 33.016
13.627 13.627
45.490 45.490
37.556 37.556
18.429 18.429
11.686 11.686
34.916 34.916
225.516 225.516
Maine Maine
30.393 30.393
16.412 16.412
12.457 12.457
7.592 7.592
0.719 0.719
8.425 8.425
5.099 5.099
4.867 4.867
31.073 31.073
117.038 117.038
Maryland Maryland
111.809 111.809
7.336 7.336
28.247 28.247
152.658 152.658
58.188 58.188
26.017 26.017
21.845 21.845
42.786 42.786
51.461 51.461
500.347 500.347
Massachusetts Massachusetts
197.096 197.096
338.728 338.728
168.496 168.496
173.120 173.120
0.000 0.000
5.412 5.412
37.800 37.800
106.280 106.280
68.388 68.388
1,095.319 1,095.319
Michigan Michigan
168.726 168.726
27.829 27.829
4.868 4.868
47.087 47.087
187.157 187.157
98.198 98.198
53.241 53.241
66.007 66.007
750.442 750.442
1,403.556 1,403.556
Minnesota Minnesota
85.569 85.569
156.198 156.198
61.434 61.434
152.779 152.779
5.700 5.700
0.000 0.000
54.632 54.632
24.678 24.678
22.180 22.180
563.170 563.170
Mississippi Mississippi
7.283 7.283
1.715 1.715
28.282 28.282
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
20.758 20.758
16.345 16.345
0.000 0.000
60.413 60.413
134.797 134.797
Missouri Missouri
35.600 35.600
48.658 48.658
77.253 77.253
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
131.817 131.817
7.822 7.822
76.644 76.644
37.671 37.671
415.466 415.466
Montana Montana
25.091 25.091
9.410 9.410
3.931 3.931
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
2.460 2.460
4.688 4.688
2.748 2.748
11.092 11.092
59.420 59.420
Nebraska Nebraska
26.057 26.057
22.244 22.244
11.926 11.926
33.834 33.834
0.000 0.000
4.174 4.174
5.032 5.032
0.146 0.146
0.741 0.741
104.154 104.154
Nevada Nevada
38.178 38.178
16.590 16.590
1.489 1.489
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
15.604 15.604
8.163 8.163
2.721 2.721
20.390 20.390
103.135 103.135
New Hampshire New Hampshire
30.651 30.651
4.582 4.582
7.689 7.689
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
5.309 5.309
11.234 11.234
7.129 7.129
17.733 17.733
84.327 84.327
New Jersey New Jersey
81.594 81.594
166.219 166.219
80.724 80.724
348.961 348.961
549.240 549.240
0.000 0.000
51.532 51.532
15.091 15.091
71.483 71.483
1,364.843 1,364.843
New Mexico New Mexico
55.419 55.419
31.278 31.278
18.902 18.902
71.929 71.929
41.168 41.168
0.870 0.870
4.953 4.953
2.919 2.919
19.230 19.230
246.666 246.666
New York New York
1,489.959 1,489.959
577.447 577.447
131.513 131.513
1,403.065 1,403.065
498.970 498.970
247.188 247.188
417.750 417.750
313.621 313.621
308.739 308.739
5,388.252 5,388.252
North Carolina North Carolina
36.847 36.847
216.874 216.874
5.437 5.437
0.000 0.000
120.828 120.828
124.292 124.292
44.812 44.812
5.421 5.421
42.710 42.710
597.221 597.221
North Dakota North Dakota
3.934 3.934
1.074 1.074
3.893 3.893
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
28.739 28.739
4.255 4.255
0.019 0.019
1.212 1.212
43.127 43.127
Ohio Ohio
236.819 236.819
405.938 405.938
90.064 90.064
0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000
11.916 11.916
110.937 110.937
54.605 54.605
222.014 222.014
1,132.292 1,132.292
Oklahoma Oklahoma
29.493 29.493
39.188 39.188
9.354 9.354
0.000 0.000
12.079 12.079
14.304 14.304
8.623 8.623
3.155 3.155
30.506 30.506
146.702 146.702
Oregon Oregon
83.385 83.385
11.175 11.175
16.521 16.521
3.381 3.381
8.630 8.630
14.588 14.588
41.043 41.043
32.056 32.056
65.658 65.658
276.435 276.435
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania
167.239 167.239
478.148 478.148
102.955 102.955
0.000 0.000
176.997 176.997
0.000 0.000
73.820 73.820
14.928 14.928
140.721 140.721
1,154.808 1,154.808
Rhode Island Rhode Island
25.472 25.472
40.366 40.366
9.874 9.874
22.705 22.705
0.000 0.000
23.308 23.308
8.839 8.839
24.855 24.855
12.235 12.235
167.654 167.654
CRS- CRS-1816

Table B-2. Uses of FY2018 TANF and MOE Funds by Category as a Percentage of Total Federal TANF and State MOE
Spending
Emer-
Work,
gency
Other
Education
Refund-
Pre-
Short-
Benefits
Child
and
able Tax
K/Head
Child
Admin-
Term
and
State
Assistance
Care
Training
Credits
Start
Welfare
istration
Benefits
Services
Totals
Alabama Alabama
11.1% 11.1%
3.2% 3.2%
3.4% 3.4%
0.0% 0.0%
12.1% 12.1%
22.1% 22.1%
10.6% 10.6%
18.7% 18.7%
18.9% 18.9%
100.0% 100.0%
Alaska Alaska
45.3 45.3
19.6 19.6
9.5 9.5
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
9.0 9.0
0.3 0.3
16.3 16.3
100.0 100.0
Arizona Arizona
12.5 12.5
0.8 0.8
0.1 0.1
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
68.0 68.0
5.8 5.8
2.8 2.8
10.0 10.0
100.0 100.0
Arkansas Arkansas
2.5 2.5
9.4 9.4
8.9 8.9
0.0 0.0
65.6 65.6
0.2 0.2
8.0 8.0
2.5 2.5
3.0 3.0
100.0 100.0
California California
35.3 35.3
11.3 11.3
27.0 27.0
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
8.1 8.1
3.9 3.9
14.4 14.4
100.0 100.0
Colorado Colorado
14.7 14.7
4.7 4.7
2.8 2.8
20.5 20.5
16.3 16.3
12.1 12.1
6.3 6.3
5.4 5.4
17.2 17.2
100.0 100.0
Connecticut Connecticut
10.1 10.1
8.0 8.0
2.4 2.4
11.3 11.3
15.3 15.3
12.5 12.5
7.2 7.2
4.0 4.0
29.2 29.2
100.0 100.0
Delaware Delaware
11.9 11.9
65.6 65.6
3.3 3.3
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
3.0 3.0
2.3 2.3
14.0 14.0
100.0 100.0
District of Columbia District of Columbia
39.5 39.5
20.4 20.4
10.3 10.3
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
3.4 3.4
23.3 23.3
3.1 3.1
100.0 100.0
Florida Florida
17.0 17.0
33.7 33.7
4.6 4.6
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
28.6 28.6
7.4 7.4
0.1 0.1
8.5 8.5
100.0 100.0
Georgia Georgia
19.5 19.5
4.5 4.5
2.2 2.2
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
50.6 50.6
4.0 4.0
1.0 1.0
18.3 18.3
100.0 100.0
Hawai Hawai
14.4 14.4
5.6 5.6
20.7 20.7
0.0 0.0
0.1 0.1
0.3 0.3
6.8 6.8
2.9 2.9
49.3 49.3
100.0 100.0
Idaho Idaho
16.6 16.6
27.5 27.5
5.6 5.6
0.0 0.0
3.0 3.0
3.0 3.0
15.7 15.7
25.5 25.5
3.0 3.0
100.0 100.0
Il inois Il inois
2.8 2.8
51.9 51.9
1.7 1.7
5.8 5.8
9.3 9.3
21.2 21.2
0.0 0.0
0.1 0.1
7.3 7.3
100.0 100.0
Indiana Indiana
3.6 3.6
28.6 28.6
20.2 20.2
6.6 6.6
0.0 0.0
2.3 2.3
5.8 5.8
0.1 0.1
32.9 32.9
100.0 100.0
Iowa Iowa
15.9 15.9
27.4 27.4
5.0 5.0
12.3 12.3
0.0 0.0
26.3 26.3
2.8 2.8
0.1 0.1
10.3 10.3
100.0 100.0
Kansas Kansas
7.9 7.9
4.0 4.0
0.6 0.6
30.2 30.2
9.2 9.2
14.9 14.9
6.9 6.9
0.0 0.0
26.3 26.3
100.0 100.0
Kentucky Kentucky
65.8 65.8
13.8 13.8
11.1 11.1
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
4.3 4.3
0.0 0.0
5.0 5.0
100.0 100.0
Louisiana Louisiana
8.7 8.7
4.9 4.9
14.6 14.6
6.0 6.0
20.2 20.2
16.7 16.7
8.2 8.2
5.2 5.2
15.5 15.5
100.0 100.0
Maine Maine
26.0 26.0
14.0 14.0
10.6 10.6
6.5 6.5
0.6 0.6
7.2 7.2
4.4 4.4
4.2 4.2
26.5 26.5
100.0 100.0
CRS- CRS-2018

Emer-
Work,
gency
Other
Education
Refund-
Pre-
Short-
Benefits
Child
and
able Tax
K/Head
Child
Admin-
Term
and
State
Assistance
Care
Training
Credits
Start
Welfare
istration
Benefits
Services
Totals
Maryland Maryland
22.3 22.3
1.5 1.5
5.6 5.6
30.5 30.5
11.6 11.6
5.2 5.2
4.4 4.4
8.6 8.6
10.3 10.3
100.0 100.0
Massachusetts Massachusetts
18.0 18.0
30.9 30.9
15.4 15.4
15.8 15.8
0.0 0.0
0.5 0.5
3.5 3.5
9.7 9.7
6.2 6.2
100.0 100.0
Michigan Michigan
12.0 12.0
2.0 2.0
0.3 0.3
3.4 3.4
13.3 13.3
7.0 7.0
3.8 3.8
4.7 4.7
53.5 53.5
100.0 100.0
Minnesota Minnesota
15.2 15.2
27.7 27.7
10.9 10.9
27.1 27.1
1.0 1.0
0.0 0.0
9.7 9.7
4.4 4.4
3.9 3.9
100.0 100.0
Mississippi Mississippi
5.4 5.4
1.3 1.3
21.0 21.0
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
15.4 15.4
12.1 12.1
0.0 0.0
44.8 44.8
100.0 100.0
Missouri Missouri
8.6 8.6
11.7 11.7
18.6 18.6
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
31.7 31.7
1.9 1.9
18.4 18.4
9.1 9.1
100.0 100.0
Montana Montana
42.2 42.2
15.8 15.8
6.6 6.6
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
4.1 4.1
7.9 7.9
4.6 4.6
18.7 18.7
100.0 100.0
Nebraska Nebraska
25.0 25.0
21.4 21.4
11.5 11.5
32.5 32.5
0.0 0.0
4.0 4.0
4.8 4.8
0.1 0.1
0.7 0.7
100.0 100.0
Nevada Nevada
37.0 37.0
16.1 16.1
1.4 1.4
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
15.1 15.1
7.9 7.9
2.6 2.6
19.8 19.8
100.0 100.0
New Hampshire New Hampshire
36.3 36.3
5.4 5.4
9.1 9.1
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
6.3 6.3
13.3 13.3
8.5 8.5
21.0 21.0
100.0 100.0
New Jersey New Jersey
6.0 6.0
12.2 12.2
5.9 5.9
25.6 25.6
40.2 40.2
0.0 0.0
3.8 3.8
1.1 1.1
5.2 5.2
100.0 100.0
New Mexico New Mexico
22.5 22.5
12.7 12.7
7.7 7.7
29.2 29.2
16.7 16.7
0.4 0.4
2.0 2.0
1.2 1.2
7.8 7.8
100.0 100.0
New York New York
27.7 27.7
10.7 10.7
2.4 2.4
26.0 26.0
9.3 9.3
4.6 4.6
7.8 7.8
5.8 5.8
5.7 5.7
100.0 100.0
North Carolina North Carolina
6.2 6.2
36.3 36.3
0.9 0.9
0.0 0.0
20.2 20.2
20.8 20.8
7.5 7.5
0.9 0.9
7.2 7.2
100.0 100.0
North Dakota North Dakota
9.1 9.1
2.5 2.5
9.0 9.0
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
66.6 66.6
9.9 9.9
0.0 0.0
2.8 2.8
100.0 100.0
Ohio Ohio
20.9 20.9
35.9 35.9
8.0 8.0
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
1.1 1.1
9.8 9.8
4.8 4.8
19.6 19.6
100.0 100.0
Oklahoma Oklahoma
20.1 20.1
26.7 26.7
6.4 6.4
0.0 0.0
8.2 8.2
9.8 9.8
5.9 5.9
2.2 2.2
20.8 20.8
100.0 100.0
Oregon Oregon
30.2 30.2
4.0 4.0
6.0 6.0
1.2 1.2
3.1 3.1
5.3 5.3
14.8 14.8
11.6 11.6
23.8 23.8
100.0 100.0
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania
14.5 14.5
41.4 41.4
8.9 8.9
0.0 0.0
15.3 15.3
0.0 0.0
6.4 6.4
1.3 1.3
12.2 12.2
100.0 100.0
Rhode Island Rhode Island
15.2 15.2
24.1 24.1
5.9 5.9
13.5 13.5
0.0 0.0
13.9 13.9
5.3 5.3
14.8 14.8
7.3 7.3
100.0 100.0
South Carolina South Carolina
32.1 32.1
2.5 2.5
20.3 20.3
0.0 0.0
16.0 16.0
3.1 3.1
11.5 11.5
0.0 0.0
14.6 14.6
100.0 100.0
South Dakota South Dakota
46.2 46.2
2.5 2.5
10.8 10.8
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
14.9 14.9
6.2 6.2
10.6 10.6
8.9 8.9
100.0 100.0
CRS- CRS-2119

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

Table B-3. Unspent TANF Funds at the End of FY2018
(September 30, 2018, in mil ions of dol ars) (September 30, 2018, in mil ions of dol ars)
Obligated But
Unobligated and
State
Not Spent
Unspent
Alabama Alabama
$0.0 $0.0
$86.4 $86.4
Alaska Alaska
0.0 0.0
36.3 36.3
Arizona Arizona
0.0 0.0
49.4 49.4
Arkansas Arkansas
20.4 20.4
53.4 53.4
California California
257.8 257.8
0.0 0.0
Colorado Colorado
0.0 0.0
104.5 104.5
Connecticut Connecticut
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
Delaware Delaware
0.6 0.6
14.1 14.1
District of Columbia District of Columbia
0.0 0.0
48.7 48.7
Florida Florida
15.9 15.9
0.0 0.0
Georgia Georgia
10.7 10.7
66.8 66.8
Hawai Hawai
20.7 20.7
280.6 280.6
Idaho Idaho
0.0 0.0
13.8 13.8
Il inois Il inois
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
Indiana Indiana
13.7 13.7
50.8 50.8
Iowa Iowa
0.7 0.7
0.0 0.0
Kansas Kansas
2.0 2.0
73.8 73.8
Kentucky Kentucky
0.0 0.0
63.8 63.8
Louisiana Louisiana
9.5 9.5
0.0 0.0
Maine Maine
14.2 14.2
130.8 130.8
Maryland Maryland
0.0 0.0
8.6 8.6
Massachusetts Massachusetts
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
Michigan Michigan
0.0 0.0
56.1 56.1
Minnesota Minnesota
0.0 0.0
58.0 58.0
Mississippi Mississippi
0.0 0.0
8.4 8.4
Missouri Missouri
0.0 0.0
5.3 5.3
Montana Montana
0.0 0.0
15.6 15.6
Nebraska Nebraska
0.0 0.0
70.4 70.4
Nevada Nevada
0.0 0.0
32.8 32.8
New Hampshire New Hampshire
0.0 0.0
55.4 55.4
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2321

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

Obligated But
Unobligated and
State
Not Spent
Unspent
New Jersey New Jersey
10.9 10.9
11.1 11.1
New Mexico New Mexico
0.0 0.0
88.7 88.7
New York New York
34.1 34.1
513.3 513.3
North Carolina North Carolina
51.1 51.1
0.0 0.0
North Dakota North Dakota
1.9 1.9
0.0 0.0
Ohio Ohio
542.3 542.3
0.5 0.5
Oklahoma Oklahoma
134.5 134.5
0.0 0.0
Oregon Oregon
0.0 0.0
13.8 13.8
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania
77.4 77.4
430.7 430.7
Rhode Island Rhode Island
0.0 0.0
16.8 16.8
South Carolina South Carolina
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
South Dakota South Dakota
0.0 0.0
19.6 19.6
Tennessee Tennessee
0.0 0.0
570.7 570.7
Texas Texas
204.9 204.9
123.5 123.5
Utah Utah
0.0 0.0
60.6 60.6
Vermont Vermont
0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0
Virginia Virginia
6.9 6.9
133.9 133.9
Washington Washington
0.0 0.0
48.4 48.4
West Virginia West Virginia
0.0 0.0
74.6 74.6
Wisconsin Wisconsin
0.0 0.0
175.6 175.6
Wyoming Wyoming
4.5 4.5
25.4 25.4

Totals Totals
1,434.9 1,434.9
3,691.1 3,691.1
Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS). Services (HHS).
Note: Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in tribal TANF programs. Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in tribal TANF programs.

Table B-4. Number of Families, Recipients, Children, and Adults Receiving TANF
Assistance by Jurisdiction, September 2019
Jurisdiction
Families
Recipients
Children
Adults
Alabama Alabama
7,687 7,687
17,453 17,453
14,340 14,340
3,113 3,113
Alaska Alaska
2,245 2,245
5,876 5,876
4,088 4,088
1,788 1,788
Arizona Arizona
7,010 7,010
14,003 14,003
11,511 11,511
2,492 2,492
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2422

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

Jurisdiction
Families
Recipients
Children
Adults
Arkansas Arkansas
2,357 2,357
5,296 5,296
4,006 4,006
1,290 1,290
California California
367,313 367,313
1,186,031 1,186,031
834,509 834,509
351,522 351,522
Colorado Colorado
14,226 14,226
35,165 35,165
25,631 25,631
9,534 9,534
Connecticut Connecticut
7,724 7,724
15,857 15,857
11,568 11,568
4,289 4,289
Delaware Delaware
3,249 3,249
9,060 9,060
5,413 5,413
3,647 3,647
District of Columbia District of Columbia
7,745 7,745
22,316 22,316
16,169 16,169
6,147 6,147
Florida Florida
38,093 38,093
60,050 60,050
51,103 51,103
8,947 8,947
Georgia Georgia
8,837 8,837
16,202 16,202
15,214 15,214
988 988
Guam Guam
439 439
974 974
826 826
148 148
Hawai Hawai
4,029 4,029
11,005 11,005
7,829 7,829
3,176 3,176
Idaho Idaho
2,043 2,043
2,946 2,946
2,859 2,859
87 87
Il inois Il inois
10,874 10,874
21,635 21,635
19,449 19,449
2,186 2,186
Indiana Indiana
5,164 5,164
10,425 10,425
9,356 9,356
1,069 1,069
Iowa Iowa
8,922 8,922
21,527 21,527
16,498 16,498
5,029 5,029
Kansas Kansas
4,039 4,039
4,039 4,039
2,080 2,080
1,959 1,959
Kentucky Kentucky
16,586 16,586
33,282 33,282
29,002 29,002
4,280 4,280
Louisiana Louisiana
4,726 4,726
11,496 11,496
9,619 9,619
1,877 1,877
Maine Maine
14,634 14,634
49,039 49,039
30,601 30,601
18,438 18,438
Maryland Maryland
16,469 16,469
39,936 39,936
29,814 29,814
10,122 10,122
Massachusetts Massachusetts
50,166 50,166
134,451 134,451
95,321 95,321
39,130 39,130
Michigan Michigan
10,794 10,794
27,295 27,295
22,311 22,311
4,984 4,984
Minnesota Minnesota
15,399 15,399
36,303 36,303
28,132 28,132
8,171 8,171
Mississippi Mississippi
3,083 3,083
5,863 5,863
4,864 4,864
999 999
Missouri Missouri
9,760 9,760
22,622 22,622
17,343 17,343
5,279 5,279
Montana Montana
3,236 3,236
7,785 7,785
6,049 6,049
1,736 1,736
Nebraska Nebraska
4,364 4,364
10,775 10,775
9,065 9,065
1,710 1,710
Nevada Nevada
8,042 8,042
20,194 20,194
15,297 15,297
4,897 4,897
New Hampshire New Hampshire
5,206 5,206
12,363 12,363
9,028 9,028
3,335 3,335
New Jersey New Jersey
8,857 8,857
20,115 20,115
15,669 15,669
4,446 4,446
New Mexico New Mexico
10,087 10,087
25,027 25,027
18,877 18,877
6,150 6,150
New York New York
113,971 113,971
293,343 293,343
205,260 205,260
88,083 88,083
North Carolina North Carolina
13,064 13,064
21,922 21,922
20,157 20,157
1,765 1,765
North Dakota North Dakota
939 939
2,325 2,325
1,986 1,986
339 339
Ohio Ohio
51,140 51,140
92,366 92,366
83,662 83,662
8,704 8,704
Oklahoma Oklahoma
5,949 5,949
13,048 13,048
11,389 11,389
1,659 1,659
Oregon Oregon
36,971 36,971
108,967 108,967
70,854 70,854
38,113 38,113
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania
39,746 39,746
97,743 97,743
73,234 73,234
24,509 24,509
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2523

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

Jurisdiction
Families
Recipients
Children
Adults
Puerto Rico Puerto Rico
4,475 4,475
12,279 12,279
7,625 7,625
4,654 4,654
Rhode Island Rhode Island
4,002 4,002
9,809 9,809
7,187 7,187
2,622 2,622
South Carolina South Carolina
7,649 7,649
16,922 16,922
14,339 14,339
2,583 2,583
South Dakota South Dakota
2,923 2,923
5,741 5,741
5,329 5,329
412 412
Tennessee Tennessee
19,221 19,221
41,313 41,313
33,537 33,537
7,776 7,776
Texas Texas
22,821 22,821
49,308 49,308
42,670 42,670
6,638 6,638
Utah Utah
3,170 3,170
7,448 7,448
5,572 5,572
1,876 1,876
Vermont Vermont
2,669 2,669
6,031 6,031
4,369 4,369
1,662 1,662
Virgin Islands Virgin Islands
96 96
318 318
222 222
96 96
Virginia Virginia
19,875 19,875
35,582 35,582
27,876 27,876
7,706 7,706
Washington Washington
36,023 36,023
86,306 86,306
59,713 59,713
26,593 26,593
West Virginia West Virginia
6,331 6,331
12,481 12,481
10,442 10,442
2,039 2,039
Wisconsin Wisconsin
15,122 15,122
32,503 32,503
27,173 27,173
5,330 5,330
Wyoming Wyoming
504 504
1,179 1,179
913 913
266 266

Totals Totals
1,090,066 1,090,066
2,863,340 2,863,340
2,106,950 2,106,950
756,390 756,390
Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS). Services (HHS).
Notes: TANF cash assistance caseload includes families receiving assistance in state-funded programs counted TANF cash assistance caseload includes families receiving assistance in state-funded programs counted
toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement. toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement.
Table B-5. Number of Needy Families with Children Receiving Assistance
by Jurisdiction, September of Selected Years

Percentage Change to 2019 from …
Jurisdiction
1994
2010
2018
2019
2018
1994
Alabama Alabama
48,752 48,752
23,052 23,052
8,182 8,182
7,687 7,687
-6.0 -6.0
-84.2 -84.2
Alaska Alaska
12,450 12,450
3,507 3,507
2,571 2,571
2,245 2,245
-12.7 -12.7
-82.0 -82.0
Arizona Arizona
72,728 72,728
18,774 18,774
7,372 7,372
7,010 7,010
-4.9 -4.9
-90.4 -90.4
Arkansas Arkansas
25,298 25,298
8,469 8,469
2,859 2,859
2,357 2,357
-17.6 -17.6
-90.7 -90.7
California California
916,795 916,795
590,121 590,121
409,043 409,043
367,313 367,313
-10.2 -10.2
-59.9 -59.9
Colorado Colorado
40,544 40,544
11,707 11,707
12,502 12,502
14,226 14,226
13.8 13.8
-64.9 -64.9
Connecticut Connecticut
60,336 60,336
16,848 16,848
8,964 8,964
7,724 7,724
-13.8 -13.8
-87.2 -87.2
Delaware Delaware
11,408 11,408
5,508 5,508
3,760 3,760
3,249 3,249
-13.6 -13.6
-71.5 -71.5
District of Columbia District of Columbia
27,320 27,320
8,547 8,547
5,840 5,840
7,745 7,745
32.6 32.6
-71.7 -71.7
Florida Florida
239,702 239,702
57,742 57,742
41,469 41,469
38,093 38,093
-8.1 -8.1
-84.1 -84.1
Georgia Georgia
141,596 141,596
20,133 20,133
10,484 10,484
8,837 8,837
-15.7 -15.7
-93.8 -93.8
Guam Guam
2,089 2,089
1,276 1,276
491 491
439 439
-10.6 -10.6
-79.0 -79.0
Hawai Hawai
21,312 21,312
9,953 9,953
4,229 4,229
4,029 4,029
-4.7 -4.7
-81.1 -81.1
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2624

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

Percentage Change to 2019 from …
Jurisdiction
1994
2010
2018
2019
2018
1994
Idaho Idaho
8,635 8,635
1,820 1,820
2,046 2,046
2,043 2,043
-0.1 -0.1
-76.3 -76.3
Il inois Il inois
241,290 241,290
24,337 24,337
11,048 11,048
10,874 10,874
-1.6 -1.6
-95.5 -95.5
Indiana Indiana
72,654 72,654
36,062 36,062
6,048 6,048
5,164 5,164
-14.6 -14.6
-92.9 -92.9
Iowa Iowa
39,137 39,137
21,548 21,548
9,650 9,650
8,922 8,922
-7.5 -7.5
-77.2 -77.2
Kansas Kansas
29,524 29,524
15,554 15,554
4,360 4,360
4,039 4,039
-7.4 -7.4
-86.3 -86.3
Kentucky Kentucky
78,720 78,720
30,875 30,875
18,774 18,774
16,586 16,586
-11.7 -11.7
-78.9 -78.9
Louisiana Louisiana
84,162 84,162
10,849 10,849
5,402 5,402
4,726 4,726
-12.5 -12.5
-94.4 -94.4
Maine Maine
22,322 22,322
15,377 15,377
17,367 17,367
14,634 14,634
-15.7 -15.7
-34.4 -34.4
Maryland Maryland
80,266 80,266
25,110 25,110
17,352 17,352
16,469 16,469
-5.1 -5.1
-79.5 -79.5
Massachusetts Massachusetts
108,985 108,985
49,836 49,836
50,270 50,270
50,166 50,166
-0.2 -0.2
-54.0 -54.0
Michigan Michigan
215,873 215,873
67,241 67,241
12,338 12,338
10,794 10,794
-12.5 -12.5
-95.0 -95.0
Minnesota Minnesota
59,987 59,987
24,574 24,574
16,973 16,973
15,399 15,399
-9.3 -9.3
-74.3 -74.3
Mississippi Mississippi
55,232 55,232
11,895 11,895
4,040 4,040
3,083 3,083
-23.7 -23.7
-94.4 -94.4
Missouri Missouri
91,875 91,875
39,262 39,262
10,761 10,761
9,760 9,760
-9.3 -9.3
-89.4 -89.4
Montana Montana
11,416 11,416
3,686 3,686
3,691 3,691
3,236 3,236
-12.3 -12.3
-71.7 -71.7
Nebraska Nebraska
15,435 15,435
8,702 8,702
4,832 4,832
4,364 4,364
-9.7 -9.7
-71.7 -71.7
Nevada Nevada
14,620 14,620
10,612 10,612
9,023 9,023
8,042 8,042
-10.9 -10.9
-45.0 -45.0
New Hampshire New Hampshire
11,398 11,398
6,175 6,175
5,257 5,257
5,206 5,206
-1.0 -1.0
-54.3 -54.3
New Jersey New Jersey
122,376 122,376
34,516 34,516
10,326 10,326
8,857 8,857
-14.2 -14.2
-92.8 -92.8
New Mexico New Mexico
34,535 34,535
21,223 21,223
10,632 10,632
10,087 10,087
-5.1 -5.1
-70.8 -70.8
New York New York
461,751 461,751
154,936 154,936
122,363 122,363
113,971 113,971
-6.9 -6.9
-75.3 -75.3
North Carolina North Carolina
129,258 129,258
23,705 23,705
14,762 14,762
13,064 13,064
-11.5 -11.5
-89.9 -89.9
North Dakota North Dakota
5,410 5,410
1,996 1,996
984 984
939 939
-4.6 -4.6
-82.6 -82.6
Ohio Ohio
244,099 244,099
105,140 105,140
42,549 42,549
51,140 51,140
20.2 20.2
-79.0 -79.0
Oklahoma Oklahoma
46,572 46,572
9,388 9,388
6,176 6,176
5,949 5,949
-3.7 -3.7
-87.2 -87.2
Oregon Oregon
40,504 40,504
31,751 31,751
40,932 40,932
36,971 36,971
-9.7 -9.7
-8.7 -8.7
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania
212,457 212,457
53,274 53,274
45,022 45,022
39,746 39,746
-11.7 -11.7
-81.3 -81.3
Puerto Rico Puerto Rico
57,337 57,337
13,371 13,371
4,992 4,992
4,475 4,475
-10.4 -10.4
-92.2 -92.2
Rhode Island Rhode Island
22,776 22,776
6,758 6,758
4,213 4,213
4,002 4,002
-5.0 -5.0
-82.4 -82.4
South Carolina South Carolina
50,430 50,430
19,347 19,347
8,314 8,314
7,649 7,649
-8.0 -8.0
-84.8 -84.8
South Dakota South Dakota
6,601 6,601
3,291 3,291
2,952 2,952
2,923 2,923
-1.0 -1.0
-55.7 -55.7
Tennessee Tennessee
109,678 109,678
62,714 62,714
20,951 20,951
19,221 19,221
-8.3 -8.3
-82.5 -82.5
Texas Texas
284,973 284,973
51,931 51,931
26,109 26,109
22,821 22,821
-12.6 -12.6
-92.0 -92.0
Utah Utah
17,505 17,505
6,646 6,646
3,546 3,546
3,170 3,170
-10.6 -10.6
-81.9 -81.9
Vermont Vermont
9,761 9,761
3,256 3,256
2,918 2,918
2,669 2,669
-8.5 -8.5
-72.7 -72.7
Virgin Islands Virgin Islands
1,146 1,146
537 537
160 160
96 96
-40.0 -40.0
-91.6 -91.6
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2725

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

Percentage Change to 2019 from …
Jurisdiction
1994
2010
2018
2019
2018
1994
Virginia Virginia
74,257 74,257
37,448 37,448
20,513 20,513
19,875 19,875
-3.1 -3.1
-73.2 -73.2
Washington Washington
101,542 101,542
70,200 70,200
37,270 37,270
36,023 36,023
-3.3 -3.3
-64.5 -64.5
West Virginia West Virginia
40,279 40,279
10,496 10,496
6,572 6,572
6,331 6,331
-3.7 -3.7
-84.3 -84.3
Wisconsin Wisconsin
75,086 75,086
24,746 24,746
15,740 15,740
15,122 15,122
-3.9 -3.9
-79.9 -79.9
Wyoming Wyoming
5,351 5,351
318 318
499 499
504 504
1.0 1.0
-90.6 -90.6

Totals Totals
5,015,545 5,015,545
1,926,140 1,926,140
1,175,493 1,175,493
1,090,066 1,090,066
-7.3 -7.3
-78.3 -78.3

Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human : Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS). Services (HHS).
Notes: Caseload data for 2010 through 2019 include those families in Separate State Programs with expenditures Notes: Caseload data for 2010 through 2019 include those families in Separate State Programs with expenditures
countable toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement. countable toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement.
Table B-6. TANF Assistance Families by Number of Parents by Jurisdiction:
September 2019

Percentage of Total Families
Single-
Two-
No-
Total
Single-
Two-
No-
Total
Jurisdiction
Parent
Parent
Parent
Families
Parent
Parent
Parent
Families
Alabama Alabama
3,021 3,021
25 25
4,641 4,641
7,687 7,687
39.3% 39.3%
0.3% 0.3%
60.4% 60.4%
100.0% 100.0%
Alaska Alaska
1,303 1,303
203 203
739 739
2,245 2,245
58.0 58.0
9.0 9.0
32.9 32.9
100.0 100.0
Arizona Arizona
2,165 2,165
126 126
4,719 4,719
7,010 7,010
30.9 30.9
1.8 1.8
67.3 67.3
100.0 100.0
Arkansas Arkansas
1,175 1,175
56 56
1,126 1,126
2,357 2,357
49.9 49.9
2.4 2.4
47.8 47.8
100.0 100.0
California California
224,473 224,473
24,435 24,435
118,405 118,405
367,313 367,313
61.1 61.1
6.7 6.7
32.2 32.2
100.0 100.0
Colorado Colorado
8,955 8,955
0 0
5,271 5,271
14,226 14,226
62.9 62.9
0.0 0.0
37.1 37.1
100.0 100.0
Connecticut Connecticut
2,317 2,317
0 0
5,407 5,407
7,724 7,724
30.0 30.0
0.0 0.0
70.0 70.0
100.0 100.0
Delaware Delaware
756 756
11 11
2,482 2,482
3,249 3,249
23.3 23.3
0.3 0.3
76.4 76.4
100.0 100.0
District of Columbia District of Columbia
6,147 6,147
0 0
1,598 1,598
7,745 7,745
79.4 79.4
0.0 0.0
20.6 20.6
100.0 100.0
Florida Florida
4,625 4,625
209 209
33,259 33,259
38,093 38,093
12.1 12.1
0.5 0.5
87.3 87.3
100.0 100.0
Georgia Georgia
1,019 1,019
0 0
7,818 7,818
8,837 8,837
11.5 11.5
0.0 0.0
88.5 88.5
100.0 100.0
Guam Guam
93 93
19 19
327 327
439 439
21.2 21.2
4.3 4.3
74.5 74.5
100.0 100.0
Hawai Hawai
2,413 2,413
588 588
1,028 1,028
4,029 4,029
59.9 59.9
14.6 14.6
25.5 25.5
100.0 100.0
Idaho Idaho
87 87
0 0
1,956 1,956
2,043 2,043
4.3 4.3
0.0 0.0
95.7 95.7
100.0 100.0
Il inois Il inois
2,170 2,170
0 0
8,704 8,704
10,874 10,874
20.0 20.0
0.0 0.0
80.0 80.0
100.0 100.0
Indiana Indiana
1,247 1,247
81 81
3,836 3,836
5,164 5,164
24.1 24.1
1.6 1.6
74.3 74.3
100.0 100.0
Iowa Iowa
4,255 4,255
350 350
4,317 4,317
8,922 8,922
47.7 47.7
3.9 3.9
48.4 48.4
100.0 100.0
Kansas Kansas
1,979 1,979
247 247
1,813 1,813
4,039 4,039
49.0 49.0
6.1 6.1
44.9 44.9
100.0 100.0
Kentucky Kentucky
3,639 3,639
330 330
12,617 12,617
16,586 16,586
21.9 21.9
2.0 2.0
76.1 76.1
100.0 100.0
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2826

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

Percentage of Total Families
Single-
Two-
No-
Total
Single-
Two-
No-
Total
Jurisdiction
Parent
Parent
Parent
Families
Parent
Parent
Parent
Families
Louisiana Louisiana
1,849 1,849
0 0
2,877 2,877
4,726 4,726
39.1 39.1
0.0 0.0
60.9 60.9
100.0 100.0
Maine Maine
7,745 7,745
5,383 5,383
1,506 1,506
14,634 14,634
52.9 52.9
36.8 36.8
10.3 10.3
100.0 100.0
Maryland Maryland
10,172 10,172
238 238
6,059 6,059
16,469 16,469
61.8 61.8
1.4 1.4
36.8 36.8
100.0 100.0
Massachusetts Massachusetts
34,984 34,984
2,744 2,744
12,438 12,438
50,166 50,166
69.7 69.7
5.5 5.5
24.8 24.8
100.0 100.0
Michigan Michigan
4,152 4,152
0 0
6,642 6,642
10,794 10,794
38.5 38.5
0.0 0.0
61.5 61.5
100.0 100.0
Minnesota Minnesota
8,252 8,252
0 0
7,147 7,147
15,399 15,399
53.6 53.6
0.0 0.0
46.4 46.4
100.0 100.0
Mississippi Mississippi
989 989
0 0
2,094 2,094
3,083 3,083
32.1 32.1
0.0 0.0
67.9 67.9
100.0 100.0
Missouri Missouri
5,758 5,758
0 0
4,002 4,002
9,760 9,760
59.0 59.0
0.0 0.0
41.0 41.0
100.0 100.0
Montana Montana
1,512 1,512
215 215
1,509 1,509
3,236 3,236
46.7 46.7
6.6 6.6
46.6 46.6
100.0 100.0
Nebraska Nebraska
1,718 1,718
0 0
2,646 2,646
4,364 4,364
39.4 39.4
0.0 0.0
60.6 60.6
100.0 100.0
Nevada Nevada
3,517 3,517
618 618
3,907 3,907
8,042 8,042
43.7 43.7
7.7 7.7
48.6 48.6
100.0 100.0
New Hampshire New Hampshire
3,132 3,132
37 37
2,037 2,037
5,206 5,206
60.2 60.2
0.7 0.7
39.1 39.1
100.0 100.0
New Jersey New Jersey
4,913 4,913
54 54
3,890 3,890
8,857 8,857
55.5 55.5
0.6 0.6
43.9 43.9
100.0 100.0
New Mexico New Mexico
4,846 4,846
652 652
4,589 4,589
10,087 10,087
48.0 48.0
6.5 6.5
45.5 45.5
100.0 100.0
New York New York
71,751 71,751
2,989 2,989
39,231 39,231
113,971 113,971
63.0 63.0
2.6 2.6
34.4 34.4
100.0 100.0
North Carolina North Carolina
1,262 1,262
6 6
11,796 11,796
13,064 13,064
9.7 9.7
0.0 0.0
90.3 90.3
100.0 100.0
North Dakota North Dakota
497 497
0 0
442 442
939 939
52.9 52.9
0.0 0.0
47.1 47.1
100.0 100.0
Ohio Ohio
7,271 7,271
362 362
43,507 43,507
51,140 51,140
14.2 14.2
0.7 0.7
85.1 85.1
100.0 100.0
Oklahoma Oklahoma
1,659 1,659
0 0
4,290 4,290
5,949 5,949
27.9 27.9
0.0 0.0
72.1 72.1
100.0 100.0
Oregon Oregon
26,126 26,126
5,481 5,481
5,364 5,364
36,971 36,971
70.7 70.7
14.8 14.8
14.5 14.5
100.0 100.0
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania
24,232 24,232
312 312
15,202 15,202
39,746 39,746
61.0 61.0
0.8 0.8
38.2 38.2
100.0 100.0
Puerto Rico Puerto Rico
4,023 4,023
237 237
215 215
4,475 4,475
89.9 89.9
5.3 5.3
4.8 4.8
100.0 100.0
Rhode Island Rhode Island
2,869 2,869
131 131
1,002 1,002
4,002 4,002
71.7 71.7
3.3 3.3
25.0 25.0
100.0 100.0
South Carolina South Carolina
2,583 2,583
0 0
5,066 5,066
7,649 7,649
33.8 33.8
0.0 0.0
66.2 66.2
100.0 100.0
South Dakota South Dakota
412 412
0 0
2,511 2,511
2,923 2,923
14.1 14.1
0.0 0.0
85.9 85.9
100.0 100.0
Tennessee Tennessee
7,010 7,010
172 172
12,039 12,039
19,221 19,221
36.5 36.5
0.9 0.9
62.6 62.6
100.0 100.0
Texas Texas
6,638 6,638
0 0
16,183 16,183
22,821 22,821
29.1 29.1
0.0 0.0
70.9 70.9
100.0 100.0
Utah Utah
1,346 1,346
0 0
1,824 1,824
3,170 3,170
42.5 42.5
0.0 0.0
57.5 57.5
100.0 100.0
Vermont Vermont
1,180 1,180
231 231
1,258 1,258
2,669 2,669
44.2 44.2
8.7 8.7
47.1 47.1
100.0 100.0
Virgin Islands Virgin Islands
77 77
0 0
19 19
96 96
80.2 80.2
0.0 0.0
19.8 19.8
100.0 100.0
Virginia Virginia
10,822 10,822
0 0
9,053 9,053
19,875 19,875
54.5 54.5
0.0 0.0
45.5 45.5
100.0 100.0
Washington Washington
17,021 17,021
6,983 6,983
12,019 12,019
36,023 36,023
47.3 47.3
19.4 19.4
33.4 33.4
100.0 100.0
West Virginia West Virginia
1,522 1,522
0 0
4,809 4,809
6,331 6,331
24.0 24.0
0.0 0.0
76.0 76.0
100.0 100.0 Wisconsin 4,853 224 10,045 15,122 32.1 1.5 66.4 100.0 Wyoming 228 19 257 504 45.2 3.8 51.0 100.0
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2927

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs

~~Wisconsin~~
~~4,853~~
~~224~~
~~10,045~~
~~15,122~~
~~32.1~~
~~1.5~~
~~66.4~~
~~100.0~~
~~Wyoming~~
~~228~~
19
~~257~~
~~504~~
~~45.2~~
~~3.8~~
~~51.0~~
~~100.0~~ Percentage of Total Families Single- Two- No- Total Single- Two- No- Total Jurisdiction Parent Parent Parent Families Parent Parent Parent Families
Totals Totals
558,760 558,760
53,768 53,768
477,538 1,090,066 477,538 1,090,066
51.3 51.3
4.9 4.9
43.8 43.8
100.0 100.0
Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS). Services (HHS).
Notes: TANF cash assistance caseload includes families receiving assistance in state-funded programs counted TANF cash assistance caseload includes families receiving assistance in state-funded programs counted
toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement. toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement.

~~Author Information~~

~~Gene Falk~~
~~Patrick A. Landers~~
~~Specialist in Social Policy~~
~~Analyst in Social Policy~~

~~Acknowledgments~~
~~Jameson Carter and Mariam Ghavalyan updated some of the information in this report. Amber Wilhelm~~
~~and Calvin DeSouza produced this report’s data visualizations.~~
Table B-7. TANF Work Participation Standard and Rate, By Jurisdiction, for All Families: FY2019 Caseload Effective Reduction (After Credit) Work Participation State Standard Credit Standard Rate Alabama 50.0 50.0 0.0 54.8 Alaska 50.0 31.0 19.0 48.5 Arizona 50.0 50.0 0.0 21.6 Arkansas 50.0 50.0 0.0 26.4 California 50.0 16.2 33.8 55.3 Colorado 50.0 38.3 11.7 34.7 Connecticut 50.0 50.0 0.0 26.7 Delaware 50.0 50.0 0.0 23.1 District of Col. 50.0 48.0 2.0 50.0 Florida 50.0 31.6 18.4 41.5 Georgia 50.0 50.0 0.0 26.6 Guam 50.0 47.5 2.5 24.1 Hawai 50.0 50.0 0.0 29.3 Idaho 50.0 0.0 50.0 59.6 Il inois 50.0 43.0 7.0 61.5 Indiana 50.0 50.0 0.0 30.5 Iowa 50.0 50.0 0.0 27.2 Kansas 50.0 50.0 0.0 32.4 Kentucky 50.0 45.5 4.5 55.6 Louisiana 50.0 50.0 0.0 5.8 Maine 50.0 0.0 50.0 87.7 Maryland 50.0 44.3 5.7 26.6 Massachusetts 50.0 20.5 29.5 66.4 Michigan 50.0 50.0 0.0 60.5 Congressional Research Service 28 The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs Caseload Effective Reduction (After Credit) Work Participation State Standard Credit Standard Rate Minnesota 50.0 40.4 9.6 35.7 Mississippi 50.0 50.0 0.0 49.1 Missouri 50.0 50.0 0.0 24.3 Montanaa 50.0 10.9 39.1 37.2 Nebraska 50.0 50.0 0.0 43.9 Nevada 50.0 22.0 28.0 38.1 New Hampshire 50.0 0.0 50.0 62.9 New Jersey 50.0 50.0 0.0 29.8 New Mexico 50.0 50.0 0.0 42.5 New York 50.0 44.4 5.6 21.7 North Carolina 50.0 44.6 5.4 26.4 North Dakota 50.0 50.0 0.0 54.1 Ohio 50.0 42.8 7.2 34.8 Oklahoma 50.0 46.9 3.1 31.5 Oregon 50.0 0.0 50.0 65.9 Pennsylvania 50.0 50.0 0.0 22.2 Puerto Rico 50.0 50.0 0.0 19.1 Rhode Island 50.0 50.0 0.0 8.9 South Carolina 50.0 50.0 0.0 29.9 South Dakota 50.0 0.0 50.0 57.7 Tennessee 50.0 50.0 0.0 33.2 Texas 50.0 50.0 0.0 21.8 Utah 50.0 50.0 0.0 11.8 Vermont 50.0 42.6 7.4 46.2 Virgin Islands 50.0 50.0 0.0 6.2 Virginia 50.0 50.0 0.0 40.5 Washington 50.0 46.8 3.2 50.5 West Virginia 50.0 45.6 4.4 34.7 Wisconsin 50.0 41.2 8.8 51.8 Wyoming 50.0 0.0 50.0 72.5 Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). a. State did not meet its work participation standard. Congressional Research Service 29 The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs Table B-8. TANF Work Participation Standard and Rate, By Jurisdiction, for Two- Parent Families: FY2019 Caseload Effective Work Reduction (After Credit) Participation State Standard Credit Standard Rate Alabama 90.0 89.5 0.5 52.9 Alaska 90.0 39.5 50.5 64.2 Arizona 90.0 74.0 16.0 55.9 Arkansas 90.0 84.2 5.8 27.0 Californiaa 90.0 25.6 64.4 31.1 Colorado NA NA NA NA Connecticut NA NA NA NA Delaware NA NA NA NA District of Col. NA NA NA NA Florida 90.0 80.8 9.2 44.3 Georgia NA NA NA NA Guam 90.0 47.5 42.5 54.6 Hawai 90.0 75.3 14.7 46.4 Idaho NA NA NA NA Il inois NA NA NA NA Indiana 90.0 77.2 12.8 29.8 Iowa 90.0 80.2 9.8 22.3 Kansas 90.0 75.6 14.4 39.6 Kentucky 90.0 45.5 44.5 57.9 Louisiana NA NA NA NA Maine 90.0 0.0 90.0 97.3 Maryland NA NA NA NA Massachusetts 90.0 20.5 69.5 84.8 Michigan NA NA NA NA Minnesota NA NA NA NA Mississippi NA NA NA NA Missouri NA NA NA NA Montanaa 90.0 41.0 49.0 40.2 Nebraska NA NA NA NA Nevadaa 90.0 22.0 68.0 50.3 New Hampshire NA NA NA NA New Jersey 90.0 77.3 12.7 92.8 New Mexico 90.0 62.5 27.5 52.7 Congressional Research Service 30 The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs Caseload Effective Work Reduction (After Credit) Participation State Standard Credit Standard Rate New York NA NA NA NA North Carolina 90.0 44.6 45.4 46.7 North Dakota NA NA NA NA Ohio 90.0 84.1 5.9 37.7 Oklahoma NA NA NA NA Oregon 90.0 0.0 90.0 98.6 Pennsylvania 90.0 89.4 0.6 37.8 Puerto Rico NA NA NA NA Rhode Islanda 90.0 58.8 31.2 11.8 South Carolina NA NA NA NA South Dakota NA NA NA NA Tennessee 90.0 69.4 20.6 32.8 Texas NA NA NA NA Utah NA NA NA NA Vermont 90.0 61.2 28.8 58.0 Virgin Islands NA NA NA NA Virginia NA NA NA NA Washington 90.0 46.8 43.2 69.6 West Virginia NA NA NA NA Wisconsin 90.0 68.3 21.7 66.5 Wyominga 90.0 0.0 90.0 77.6 Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Note: NA = jurisdiction does not serve two-parent families in its TANF assistance program. a. State did not meet its work participation standard. Author Information Gene Falk Patrick A. Landers Specialist in Social Policy Analyst in Social Policy Acknowledgments Amber Wilhelm and Calvin DeSouza produced this report’s data visualizations. Congressional Research Service 31 The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Disclaimer
This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan
shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and
under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should n ot be relied upon for purposes other under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should n ot be relied upon for purposes other
than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in
connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not
subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in
its entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or its entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or
material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to
copy or otherwise use copyrighted material. copy or otherwise use copyrighted material.

Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service
RL32760 RL32760 · VERSION ~~194~~195 · UPDATED
3032