The Temporary Assistance for
September 14November 30, 2021 , 2021
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 full report,
For a copy of the full report,
on TANF Financing and Federal Requirements, by Gene Falk). , by Gene Falk).
please call 7-5700 or visit
please call 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 also of Columbia, the territories, and American Indian tribes. The basic block grant totals $16.5 billion per year. States are also
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
FY2020, the TANF basic block grant was 38% below what its value (adjusting for inflation) was in FY1997. FY2020, the TANF basic block grant was 38% below what its value (adjusting for inflation) was in FY1997.
Though TANF is best known for funding basic assistance payments for needy families with children, the block grant and
Though TANF is best known for funding basic assistance payments for needy families with children, the block grant and
MOE funds are used for a wide variety of benefits and activities. In FY2019, expenditures on basic assistance totaled $6.5 MOE funds are used for a wide variety of benefits and activities. In FY2019, expenditures on basic assistance totaled $6.5
billion—21% of total federal TANF and MOE dollars. Basic assistance is often—but not exclusively—paid as cash and on an billion—21% of total federal TANF and MOE dollars. Basic assistance is often—but not exclusively—paid as cash and on an
ongoing basis (monthly). In addition to funding basic assistance, TANF also contributes funds for child care, employment ongoing basis (monthly). In addition to funding basic 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 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 have been, or are at risk of being, abused and neglected. Some states also 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 toward the MOE requirement. count expenditures in prekindergarten programs toward the MOE requirement.
The TANF Assistance Caseload. A total of 1.0 million families, composed of 2.6 million recipients, received TANF- or A total of 1.0 million families, composed of 2.6 million recipients, received TANF- or
MOE-funded assistance in November 2020. The bulk of the “recipients” were children—1.9 million in that month. The MOE-funded assistance in November 2020. The bulk of the “recipients” were children—1.9 million in that month. The
assistance caseload is heterogeneous. The type of family once thought of as the “typical” assistance family—one with an assistance caseload is heterogeneous. The type of family once thought of as the “typical” assistance family—one with an
unemployed adult recipient—accounted for 32% of all families on the rolls in FY2019. Additionally, 26% of cash assistance unemployed adult recipient—accounted for 32% of all families on the rolls in FY2019. Additionally, 26% of cash assistance
families had an employed adult, while 42% of all TANF families were “child-only” and had no adult recipient. Child-only families had an employed adult, while 42% of all TANF families were “child-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., 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 citizen children and ineligible noncitizen parents. grandparents, aunts, uncles) caring for children, and families consisting of citizen children and ineligible noncitizen parents.
Assistance Benefits. TANF assistance benefit amounts are set by states. In July 2019, the maximum monthly benefit for a TANF assistance benefit amounts are set by states. In July 2019, the maximum monthly benefit for a
family of three ranged from $1,066 in New Hampshire to $170 in Mississippi. Only New Hampshire (at 60% of the federal family of three ranged from $1,066 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 a performance measure that applies to the states. States TANF’s main federal work requirement is 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 and 90% 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 “credits.” 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 FY2020, states Therefore, the effective standards states face are often less than the 50% or 90% targets, and vary by state. In FY2020, states
achieved, on average, an all-family participation rate of 39.6% and a two-parent rate of 46.9%. In FY2020, all jurisdictions achieved, on average, an all-family participation rate of 39.6% and a two-parent rate of 46.9%. In FY2020, all jurisdictions
met the all-family participation standard, but six jurisdictions (California, Guam, Nevada, North Carolina, Rhode Island, and met the all-family participation standard, but six jurisdictions (California, Guam, Nevada, North Carolina, Rhode Island, and
Wyoming) did not meet the two-parent standard. Wyoming) did not meet the two-parent standard.
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Contents
Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 1
Funding and Expenditures ............................................................................................................... 1
What Is TANF’s Funding Status? ............................................................................................. 1
How Are State TANF Programs Funded? ................................................................................. 1
How Much Has the Value of the TANF Basic Block Grant Changed Over Time? ................... 1
How Have States Used TANF Funds? ...................................................................................... 2
How Much of the TANF Grant Has Gone Unspent? ................................................................ 3
The Caseload ................................................................................................................................... 4
How Many Families Receive TANF- or MOE-Funded Benefits and Services? ....................... 4
How Many Families and People Currently Receive TANF- or MOE-Funded
Assistance? ............................................................................................................................. 4
How Does the Current Assistance Caseload Level Compare with Historical Levels? ............. 5
What Are the Characteristics of Families Receiving TANF Assistance? .................................. 6
TANF Cash Benefits: How Much Does a Family Receive in TANF Cash Per Month? .................. 7
TANF Work Participation Standards ............................................................................................... 9
What Is the TANF Work Participation Standard States Must Meet? ........................................ 9
Have There Been Changes in the Work Participation Rules Enacted Since the 1996
Welfare Reform Law? ............................................................................................................ 9
What Work Participation Rates Have the States Achieved?.................................................... 10
Figures
Figure 1. Uses of TANF Funds by Spending Category, FY2019 .................................................... 3
Figure 2. Number of Families Receiving Assistance, June 1959 to November 2020 ..................... 6
Figure 3. Composition of the AFDC/TANF Assistance Caseload by Family Type:
Selected Years, FY1988 to FY2019 ............................................................................................. 7
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 2019 ................ 8
Figure 5. National Average TANF Work Participation Rate for All Families, FY2002-
FY2020 ........................................................................................................................................ 11
Tables
Table 1. TANF Basic Block Grant Funding in Nominal and Constant Dollars ............................... 2
Table 2. Families and Recipients of TANF Assistance, November 2020 ........................................ 4
Table A-1. Trends in the Cash Assistance Caseload: 1961-2019 ................................................... 12
Table A-2. Families Receiving AFDC/TANF Assistance by Family Category, Selected
Years, FY1988-FY2019 ............................................................................................................. 14
Table B-1. Use of FY2019 TANF and MOE Funds by Category .................................................. 15
Table B-2. Uses of FY2018 TANF and MOE Funds by Category as a Percentage of Total
Federal TANF and State MOE Spending ................................................................................... 18
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3433 The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Table B-3. Unspent TANF Funds at the End of FY2019 ............................................................... 21
Table B-4. Number of Families, Recipients, Children, and Adults Receiving TANF
Assistance by Jurisdiction, November 2020 .............................................................................. 22
Table B-5. Number of Needy Families with Children Receiving Assistance
by Jurisdiction, November of Selected Years ............................................................................. 24
Table B-6. TANF Work Participation Standard and Rate, By Jurisdiction for All Families:
FY2020 ....................................................................................................................................... 26
Table B-7. TANF Work Participation Standard and Rate, By Jurisdiction, for Two-Parent
Families: FY2020 ....................................................................................................................... 28
Appendixes
Appendix A. Supplementary Tables .............................................................................................. 12
Appendix B. State Tables .............................................................................................................. 15
Contacts
Author Information ........................................................................................................................ 3029
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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 dataccess to information and dat
a. Appendix A provides additional data on families receiving TANF provides additional data on families receiving TANF
assistance over timassistance over tim
e. 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 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L. 116-260 ) extends TANF funding through the end of FY2021 (September 30, 2021). The Extending Government Funding and Delivering Emergency Assistance Act (P.L. 117-43), enacted September 30, 2021, funds TANF through December 3, 2021.
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 billion for the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the states, totaling $16.5 billion 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.
Additionally, states are required to expend a minimum amount of their own funds for TANF and
Additionally, 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 billion per year for the 50 states, the programs. The minimum MOE amount, in total, is $10.3 billion 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 by the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of TANF was created by the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of
1996 (PRWORA, P.L. 104-193). A TANF basic block grant amount—both nationally and for each 1996 (PRWORA, P.L. 104-193). A TANF basic block grant amount—both nationally and for each
state—was established in the 1996 law. That amount for the 50 states, District of Columbia, state—was established in the 1996 law. That amount for the 50 states, District of Columbia,
territories, and tribes was $16.6 billion in total. From FY1997 through FY2016, that amount territories, and tribes was $16.6 billion in total. From FY1997 through FY2016, that amount
remained the same. The basic block grant was not adjusted for changes that occur over time, such remained the same. The basic block grant was not adjusted for changes that occur over time, such
as inflation, the size of the TANF assistance caseload, or changes in the poverty population. as inflation, the size of the TANF assistance caseload, or changes in the poverty population.
During this period, the real (inflation-adjusted) value of the block grant declined by one-third During this period, the real (inflation-adjusted) 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 (33.1%). Beginning with FY2017, the state family assistance grant was reduced by 0.33% from
its historical levels to finance TANF-related research and technical assistance. The reduced block its historical levels to finance TANF-related research and technical assistance. The reduced block
grant amount is $16.5 billion. grant amount is $16.5 billion.
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 FY2020. In real (inflation-adjusted) terms, the adjusted) dollars for each year, FY1997 through FY2020. In real (inflation-adjusted) terms, the
FY2020 block grant was 38% below its value in FY1997. FY2020 block grant was 38% below its value in FY1997.
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Table 1. TANF Basic Block Grant Funding in Nominal and Constant Dollars
(In Billions of $)
(In Billions of $)
State Family
State
Assistance
Family
Grant: 50
Assistance
States, DC,
Grant
Cumulative
Fiscal
Tribes, and
Constant
Percentage
Fiscal Year
Territories
1997 dollars
Change
1997
1997
$16.567
$16.567
$16.567
$16.567
1998
1998
16.567
16.567
16.306
16.306
-1.6%
-1.6%
1999
1999
16.567
16.567
15.991
15.991
-3.5
-3.5
2000
2000
16.567
16.567
15.498
15.498
-6.5
-6.5
2001
2001
16.567
16.567
15.020
15.020
-9.3
-9.3
2002
2002
16.567
16.567
14.792
14.792
-10.7
-10.7
2003
2003
16.567
16.567
14.456
14.456
-12.7
-12.7
2004
2004
16.567
16.567
14.124
14.124
-14.7
-14.7
2005
2005
16.567
16.567
13.680
13.680
-17.4
-17.4
2006
2006
16.567
16.567
13.190
13.190
-20.4
-20.4
2007
2007
16.567
16.567
12.893
12.893
-22.2
-22.2
2008
2008
16.567
16.567
12.345
12.345
-25.5
-25.5
2009
2009
16.567
16.567
12.382
12.382
-25.3
-25.3
2010
2010
16.567
16.567
12.182
12.182
-26.5
-26.5
2011
2011
16.567
16.567
11.859
11.859
-28.4
-28.4
2012
2012
16.567
16.567
11.585
11.585
-30.1
-30.1
2013
2013
16.567
16.567
11.394
11.394
-31.2
-31.2
2014
2014
16.567
16.567
11.217
11.217
-32.3
-32.3
2015
2015
16.567
16.567
11.179
11.179
-32.5
-32.5
2016
2016
16.567
16.567
11.082
11.082
-33.1
-33.1
2017
2017
16.512
16.512
10.820
10.820
-34.7
-34.7
2018
2018
16.512
16.512
10.564
10.564
-36.2
-36.2
2019
2019
16.512
16.512
10.372
10.372
-37.4
-37.4
2020
2020
16.512
16.512
10.224
10.224
-38.3
-38.3
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), 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 Constant dol ars were computed using the Consumer Price Index for
al all Urban Consumers (CPI-U). Urban Consumers (CPI-U).
How Have States Used TANF Funds?
In FY2019, a total of $30.9 billion of both federal TANF and state MOE expenditures were either In FY2019, a total of $30.9 billion of both federal TANF and state MOE expenditures were either
expended or transferred to other block grant programs. Basic assistance—ongoing benefits to expended or transferred to other block grant programs. Basic assistance—ongoing benefits to
families to meet basic needs—represented 21% ($6.5 billion) of total FY2019 TANF and MOE families to meet basic needs—represented 21% ($6.5 billion) of total FY2019 TANF and MOE
dollars. dollars.
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
TANF is a major contributor of child care funding. In FY2019, $5.0 billion (16% of all TANF and
TANF is a major contributor of child care funding. In FY2019, $5.0 billion (16% of all 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
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 $3.2 billion, or 10% of and training) were the third-largest TANF and MOE spending category at $3.2 billion, or 10% 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 FY2019 totaled $2.8 billion, or 9% of total TANF MOE expenditures on refundable tax credits in FY2019 totaled $2.8 billion, 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 FY2019 TANF and MOE funds also help fund state prekindergarten (pre-K) programs, with total FY2019
expenditures for that category at $2.6 billion. TANF is also a major contributor to the child expenditures for that category at $2.6 billion. 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 $2.6 billion on such activities. TANF and MOE funds are also used for short-term spending about $2.6 billion on such activities. TANF and MOE funds are also used for short-term
and emergency benefits and a wide range of other social serviceand emergency benefits and a wide range of other social service
s. Figure 1 shows the uses of shows the uses of
federal TANF grants to states and state MOE funds in FY2019. federal TANF grants to states and state MOE funds in FY2019.
Figure 1. Uses of TANF Funds by Spending Category, FY2019
(Dollars in
(Dollars in
Billionsbillions) )
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: 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, see
For state-specific information on the use of TANF funds, see
Table B-1 andand
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 FY2019 (September 30, 2019
At the end of FY2019 (September 30, 2019
, the most recent data currently available), a total of ), a total of
$5.8 billion of federal TANF funding remained neither transferred nor spent. However, some of $5.8 billion 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 FY2019, states had made such commitments to spend—that is, had obligated—a total of $1.4 of FY2019, states had made such commitments to spend—that is, had obligated—a total of $1.4
billion. At the end of FY2019, billion. At the end of FY2019,
states had $4.5 billion of “unobligated balances.” These funds are
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
states had $4.5 billion of “unobligated balances.” These funds are available to states to make available to states to make
new spending commitment spending commitment
s. Table B-3 shows unspent TANF funds shows unspent TANF funds
by state. by state.
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) allotments. These earnings supplements are paid separately from the regular TANF cash (SNAP) allotments. These earnings supplements are paid separately from the regular TANF cash
assistance program. Additionally, TANF MOE dollars are used to fund food assistance for assistance program. Additionally, 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 all TANF expenditures. Therefore, the federal reporting requirements that pertain to families of all 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 1.0 million families, composed of 2.6 provides assistance caseload information. A total of 1.0 million families, composed of 2.6
million recipients, received TANF- or MOE-funded assistance in November 2020.2 The bulk of million recipients, received TANF- or MOE-funded assistance in November 2020.2 The bulk of
the “recipients” were children—1.9 million in that month. For state-by-state assistance caseloads, the “recipients” were children—1.9 million in that month. For state-by-state assistance caseloads,
seesee
Table B-4.
Table 2. Families and Recipients of TANF Assistance, November 2020
Families Families
1,002,327
1,002,327
Recipients
Recipients
2,598,799
2,598,799
Children
Children
1,912,820
1,912,820
Adults
685,979
Adults
685,979
Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS) based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
1 The definition of TANF assistance is not in statute. However, because the statutory language has most TANF 1 The definition of TANF assistance is not in statute. However, because the statutory language has most TANF
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.
2 The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has posted data on families and recipients of TANF assistance
2 The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has posted data on families and recipients of TANF assistance
through December 2020. However, the data reported for Oregon are erroneous. Therefore, this report will show TANF through December 2020. However, the data reported for Oregon are erroneous. Therefore, this report will show TANF
assistance family and recipient data for November 2020, as the most recent data available for all states as of the update assistance family and recipient data for November 2020, as the most recent data available for all states as of the update
of this report. of this report.
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Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS) based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). 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.
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 November 2020. The shaded assistance from TANF or its predecessor program, from July 1959 to November 2020. The shaded
areas of the figure represent months when the national economy was in recession. Though the 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-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 fall again during periods pattern would have the caseload rise during economic slumps, and then fall 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 million families. The assistance caseload fell rapidly in assistance peaked in March 1994 at 5.1 million families. The assistance caseload fell rapidly in
the late 1990s, after PRWORA, before leveling off in 2001. In 2004, the caseload began another the late 1990s, after PRWORA, before leveling off in 2001. In 2004, the caseload began another
decline, albeit at a slower pace than in the late 1990s. During the 2007-2009 recession and its decline, albeit at a slower pace than in the late 1990s. During the 2007-2009 recession and its
aftermath, the caseload began to rise from 1.7 million families in August 2008, peaking in aftermath, the caseload began to rise from 1.7 million families in August 2008, peaking in
December 2010 at close to 2.0 million families. The number of families receiving assistance December 2010 at close to 2.0 million families. The number of families receiving assistance
declined by almost half (to a little over 1 million families) during the long economic expansion of declined by almost half (to a little over 1 million families) during the long economic expansion of
2010 through 2019. 2010 through 2019.
During 2020, a year when the economy was affected by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-
During 2020, a year when the economy was affected by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-
19) pandemic, there was a brief uptick in the number of families receiving assistance. The 19) pandemic, there was a brief uptick in the number of families receiving assistance. The
number of families receiving assistance increased in the April through June 2020 period. number of families receiving assistance increased in the April through June 2020 period.
However, after June 2020, the number of families receiving TANF assistance again began to However, after June 2020, the number of families receiving TANF assistance again began to
decline.3 In November 2020, the number of families receiving assistance was reported at 1.0 decline.3 In November 2020, the number of families receiving assistance was reported at 1.0
million families, down 6.4% from its level in November 2019. million families, down 6.4% from its level in November 2019.
3 In 2020 and 2021, Congress enacted expansions to other programs – in particular, unemployment insurance—that 3 In 2020 and 2021, Congress enacted expansions to other programs – in particular, unemployment insurance—that
might have lessened the need for need-tested cash from TANF. Seemight have lessened the need for need-tested cash from TANF. See
: CRS Report R46687, CRS Report R46687,
Current Status of
Unemployment Insurance (UI) Benefits: Permanent-Law Programs and COVID-19 Pandemic Response. For estimates . For estimates
of the impact of the poverty interventions in response to COVID-19’s economic downturn, seeof the impact of the poverty interventions in response to COVID-19’s economic downturn, see
: Laura Wheaton, Linda Laura Wheaton, Linda
Giannarelli, and Ilham Dehry, Giannarelli, and Ilham Dehry,
2021 Poverty Projections: Assessing the Impact of Benefits and Stimulus Measures, ,
Urban Institute, July 2021. Urban Institute, July 2021.
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Figure 2. Number of Families Receiving Assistance, June 1959 to November 2020
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 the last month shown, includes families receiving Children (AFDC), and TANF. For October 1999 through the last month shown, includes families receiving
assistance from Separate State Programs (SSPs) with expenditures countable toward the TANF maintenance of assistance from Separate State Programs (SSPs) with expenditures countable toward the TANF maintenance of
effort requirement.effort requirement.
See Table A-1 for average annual data on families, recipients, adult recipients, and child for average annual data on families, recipients, adult recipients, and child
recipients of ADC, AFDC, and TANF cash assistance for 1961 to 2019. recipients of ADC, AFDC, and TANF cash assistance for 1961 to 2019.
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
(usually the mother) with one or two children. That single parent had also typically been (usually the mother) with one or two children. That single parent had also typically been
unemployed. However, since 1996, the assistance caseload decline has occurred together with a unemployed. However, since 1996, the assistance caseload decline has occurred together with a
major shift in the composition of the rolls. major shift in the composition of the rolls.
Figure 3 shows the change in the size and composition of the assistance caseload under both shows the change in the size and composition of the assistance caseload under both
AFDC (1988 and 1994) and TANF. In FY1988, an estimated 84% of AFDC families were headed AFDC (1988 and 1994) and TANF. In FY1988, an estimated 84% of AFDC families were headed
by an unemployed adult recipient. In FY2019, families with an unemployed adult recipient by an unemployed adult recipient. In FY2019, families with an unemployed adult recipient
represented 32% of all cash assistance families. This decline occurred, in large part, as the represented 32% of all cash assistance families. This decline occurred, in large part, as the
number of families headed by unemployed adult recipients declined more rapidly than other number of families headed by unemployed adult recipients declined more rapidly than other
components of the assistance caseload. In FY1994, a monthly average of 3.8 million families per components of the assistance caseload. In FY1994, a monthly average of 3.8 million families per
month who received AFDC cash assistance had adult recipients who were not working. In month who received AFDC cash assistance had adult recipients who were not working. In
FY2019, a monthly average of 359,000 families per month had adult recipients or work-eligible FY2019, a monthly average of 359,000 families per month had adult recipients or work-eligible
individuals, with no adult recipient or work-eligible individual working. individuals, with no adult recipient or work-eligible 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
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assistance program. In FY2019, families with an employed adult comprised 26% of all TANF
assistance program. In FY2019, families with an employed adult comprised 26% of all 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 FY2019 was 42%. In FY2019, families with a nonrecipient, nonparent relative only in FY2019 was 42%. In FY2019, families with a nonrecipient, nonparent relative
(grandparents, aunts, uncles) represented 17% of all assistance families. Families with ineligible, (grandparents, aunts, uncles) represented 17% of all 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 made up 9% of all assistance families in FY2019. Income (SSI) and the children received TANF made up 9% of all assistance families in FY2019.
Figure 3. Composition of the AFDC/TANF Assistance Caseload by Family Type:
Selected Years, FY1988 to FY2019
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 all (There are also no federal rules that require states to use TANF to pay cash benefits, though all
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 usually paid to a family that receives no other income (e.g., no earned or unearned benefit is usually 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 financially sanctioned for not meeting a program a reduced benefit. Moreover, some families are financially 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.
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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 2019.4 For a family of three, the maximum TANF benefit two children (family of three) in July 2019.4 For a family of three, the maximum TANF benefit
paid in July 2019 varied from $170 per month in Mississippi to $1,066 per month in New paid in July 2019 varied from $170 per month in Mississippi to $1,066 per month in New
Hampshire. The map shows a regional pattern to the maximum monthly benefit paid, with lower Hampshire. The map shows a regional pattern to the maximum monthly benefit paid, with lower
benefit amounts in the South than in other regions. Only New Hampshire (at 60% of the federal benefit amounts 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 poverty guidelines) had a maximum TANF cash assistance amount for this sized family in excess
of 50% of poverty-level income. of 50% of poverty-level income.
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 2019
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.
4 States are not required to report to the federal government their cash assistance benefit amounts in either the TANF 4 States are not required to report to the federal government their cash assistance benefit amounts in either the TANF
state plan (under Section 402 of the Social Security Act) or in annual program reports (under Section 411 of the Social state plan (under Section 402 of the Social Security Act) or in annual program reports (under Section 411 of the Social
Security Act). The benefit amounts shown are from the “Welfare Rules Database,” maintained by the Urban Institute Security Act). The benefit amounts shown are from the “Welfare Rules Database,” maintained by the Urban Institute
and funded by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Some states vary their benefit amounts for other and funded by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Some states vary their benefit amounts for other
family types such as two-parent families or “child-only” cases. States also vary their benefits by other factors such as family types such as two-parent families or “child-only” cases. States also vary their benefits by other factors such as
housing costs and substate geography. housing costs and substate geography.
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TANF Work Participation Standards
TANF’s main federal work requirement is actually a performance measure that applies to the TANF’s main federal work requirement is actually 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 participation in The TANF statute requires states to have 50% of their caseload meet standards of participation 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
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. Additionally, under a regulatory provision, a state percentage point decline in a state’s caseload. Additionally, 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 well as the caseload reduction credit, date The 50% and 90% target standards that states face, as well 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 allowable TANF work activities
HHS was instructed to provide definition to the allowable 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.
5 Families without a work-eligible individual are excluded from the participation rate calculation. It excludes families 5 Families without a work-eligible individual are excluded from the participation 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., grandparent, aunt, uncle) who noncitizen) or the children in the family are being cared for by a nonparent relative (e.g., grandparent, aunt, uncle) who
does not receive assistance on his or her behalf. does not receive assistance on his or her behalf.
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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
allowing states to “freeze” caseload reduction credits at pre-recession levels through the FY2011 allowing 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 “all-effective (after-credit) standard to determine if it has met the TANF work standard. An “all-
families” work participation rate is computed and compared with the all-families effective families” work participation rate is computed and compared with the all-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).
Figure 5 shows the national average all-families work participation rate for FY2002 through shows the national average all-families work participation rate for FY2002 through
FY2020. For the period FY2002 through FY2011, states achieved an average all-families work FY2020. For the period FY2002 through FY2011, states achieved an average all-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 The national average TANF work participation rate for all families declined in 2018 for work.6 The national average TANF work participation rate for all families declined in 2018
and 2019 from its 2017 high of 53.0%. In FY2020, a year affected by the COVID-19 virus and its and 2019 from its 2017 high of 53.0%. In FY2020, a year affected by the COVID-19 virus and its
economic fallout, the national average all-families rate fell by 7.5 percentage points. However, in economic fallout, the national average all-families rate fell by 7.5 percentage points. However, in
FY2020 all states met their all-families TANF work participation standards despite this decline FY2020 all states met their all-families TANF work participation standards despite this decline
(in FY2019, only Montana did not meet its standard). (in FY2019, only Montana did not meet its standard).
6 See CRS In Focus IF10856, 6 See CRS In Focus IF10856,
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families: Work Requirements. .
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Figure 5. National Average TANF Work Participation Rate for All Families, FY2002-
FY2020
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).
In FY2020, 5 states (California, Nevada, North Carolina, Rhode Island, and Wyoming) as well as
In FY2020, 5 states (California, Nevada, North Carolina, Rhode Island, and Wyoming) as well as
Guam failed the separate, higher two-parent standarGuam failed the separate, higher two-parent standar
d. Table B-6 provides information for each provides information for each
jurisdiction on the TANF work standard, caseload reduction credit, and work participation rate for jurisdiction on the TANF work standard, caseload reduction credit, and work participation rate for
all families for FY2020all families for FY2020
. Table B-7 provides that information for two-parent families. However, provides that information for two-parent families. However,
the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has the ability to reduce or waive the 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, under the penalty on states for failing to meet the TANF work participation standard. HHS, under the
Administration of President Donald Trump, said that it would exercise its authority to provide Administration of President Donald Trump, said that it would exercise its authority to provide
states with relief from the penalty for not meeting participation standards “to the maximum extent states with relief from the penalty for not meeting participation standards “to the maximum extent
possible.”7 HHS has not revised this statement under the current, Biden Administration. possible.”7 HHS has not revised this statement under the current, Biden Administration.
7 U.S. Department of Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Family Assistance, 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) pandemic, TANF-ACF-Pi-2020-, TANF-ACF-Pi-2020-
01, https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ofa/resource/tanf-acf-pi-2020-01. 01, https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ofa/resource/tanf-acf-pi-2020-01.
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Appendix A. Supplementary Tables
Table A-1. Trends in the Cash Assistance Caseload: 1961-2019
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
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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
2019
2019
1.093
1.093
2.866
2.866
0.747
0.747
2.199
2.199
2.9
2.9
20.2
20.2
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 all children and percent and child recipients were not col ected. For those years, TANF children as a percent of all children and percent
of all poor children were estimated by HHS and published in of all 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 , Table TANF 2, p. A-7. See
https://aspe.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/private/pdf/116161/FINAL%20Fourteenth%20Report%20-https://aspe.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/private/pdf/116161/FINAL%20Fourteenth%20Report%20-
%20FINAL%209%2022%2015.pdf. For 2019, the ratio of TANF recipient children to all children in poverty might %20FINAL%209%2022%2015.pdf. For 2019, the ratio of TANF recipient children to all children in poverty might
be overstated. This is because child poverty might have been underestimated, as responses to the survey used to be overstated. This is because child poverty might have been underestimated, as responses to the survey used to
estimate poverty were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
13
13
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
estimate poverty were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. See Jonathan Rothbaum and Adam Bee, See Jonathan Rothbaum and Adam Bee,
Coronavirus
Infects Surveys, Too: Nonresponse Bias During the Pandemic in the CPS ASEC, U.S. Census Bureau, SEHSD Working , U.S. Census Bureau, SEHSD Working
Paper no. 2020-10, September 15, 2020. Paper no. 2020-10, September 15, 2020.
Table A-2. Families Receiving AFDC/TANF Assistance by Family Category, Selected
Years, FY1988-FY2019
1988
1994
2010
2019
Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Not Working
Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Not Working
3,136,566
3,136,566
3,798,997
3,798,997
879,922
879,922
358,761
358,761
Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Working
Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Working
243,573
243,573
378,620
378,620
287,146
287,146
286,373
286,373
Child-Only/SSI Parent
Child-Only/SSI Parent
59,988
59,988
171,391
171,391
181,852
181,852
104,397
104,397
Child-Only/Noncitizen Parent
Child-Only/Noncitizen Parent
47,566
47,566
184,397
184,397
217,487
217,487
108,249
108,249
Child-Only/Other Ineligible Parent
Child-Only/Other Ineligible Parent
51,764
51,764
146,227
146,227
4,968
4,968
3,391
3,391
Child-Only/Caretaker Relative
Child-Only/Caretaker Relative
188,598
188,598
328,290
328,290
254,088
254,088
190,494
190,494
Child-Only/Unknown
Child-Only/Unknown
19,897
19,897
38,341
38,341
84,378
84,378
68,743
68,743
Totals
Totals
3,747,952
3,747,952
5,046,263
5,046,263
1,909,841
1,909,841
1,120,407
1,120,407
Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Not Working
Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Not Working
83.7%
83.7%
75.3%
75.3%
46.1%
46.1%
32.0%
32.0%
Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Working
Adult Recipient or Work-Eligible Parent/Working
6.5
6.5
7.5
7.5
15.0
15.0
25.6
25.6
Child-Only/SSI Parent
Child-Only/SSI Parent
1.6
1.6
3.4
3.4
9.5
9.5
9.3
9.3
Child-Only/Noncitizen Parent
Child-Only/Noncitizen Parent
1.3
1.3
3.7
3.7
11.4
11.4
9.7
9.7
Child-Only/Other Ineligible Parent
Child-Only/Other Ineligible Parent
1.4
1.4
2.9
2.9
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Child-Only/Caretaker Relative
Child-Only/Caretaker Relative
5.0
5.0
6.5
6.5
13.3
13.3
17.0
17.0
Child-Only/Unknown
Child-Only/Unknown
0.5
0.5
0.8
0.8
4.4
4.4
6.1
6.1
Totals
Totals
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 FY2010 and FY2019 TANF National Data Files. (QC) data files and the FY2010 and FY2019 TANF National Data Files.
Notes: FY2010 and FY2019 data include families receiving assistance from separate state programs (SSPs) with FY2010 and FY2019 data include families receiving assistance from separate state programs (SSPs) with
expenditures countable toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement. expenditures countable toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement.
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
14
14
Appendix B. State Tables
Table B-1. Use of FY2019 TANF and MOE Funds by Category
($ in Billions)
($ in Billions)
Work,
Emergency
Other
Educa-
Refundable
Pre-
and Short-
Benefits
Basic
Child
tion, and
Tax
K/Head
Child
Adminis-
Term
and
Total
State
Assistance
Care
Training
Credits
Start
Welfare
tration
Benefits
Services Spending
Alabama
Alabama
$17.263
$17.263
$5.524
$5.524
$7.500
$7.500
$0.000
$0.000
$22.005
$22.005
$38.271
$38.271
$12.855
$12.855
$38.280
$38.280
$35.228
$35.228
$176.926
$176.926
Alaska
Alaska
37.176
37.176
14.782
14.782
10.152
10.152
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
6.239
6.239
0.367
0.367
16.192
16.192
84.908
84.908
Arizona
Arizona
43.599
43.599
0.000
0.000
0.682
0.682
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
211.345
211.345
15.911
15.911
26.535
26.535
48.201
48.201
346.273
346.273
Arkansas
Arkansas
4.912
4.912
2.660
2.660
14.025
14.025
0.000
0.000
30.143
30.143
0.276
0.276
16.510
16.510
4.780
4.780
6.819
6.819
80.125
80.125
California
California
2,204.396
2,204.396
797.841
797.841
1,761.212
1,761.212
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.309
0.309
539.356
539.356
275.796
275.796
965.421
965.421
6,544.331
6,544.331
Colorado
Colorado
75.424
75.424
12.422
12.422
11.619
11.619
76.440
76.440
59.323
59.323
50.090
50.090
18.451
18.451
18.121
18.121
60.979
60.979
382.870
382.870
Connecticut
Connecticut
41.886
41.886
41.485
41.485
11.267
11.267
59.300
59.300
82.701
82.701
70.619
70.619
38.627
38.627
20.945
20.945
134.497
134.497
501.326
501.326
Delaware
Delaware
11.388
11.388
79.081
79.081
1.809
1.809
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
4.823
4.823
1.795
1.795
16.771
16.771
115.667
115.667
District of Columbia
District of Columbia
164.956
164.956
59.117
59.117
34.563
34.563
23.681
23.681
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
9.725
9.725
69.144
69.144
7.068
7.068
368.253
368.253
Florida
Florida
145.677
145.677
290.578
290.578
46.106
46.106
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
250.139
250.139
88.941
88.941
0.950
0.950
81.598
81.598
903.989
903.989
Georgia
Georgia
98.333
98.333
0.000
0.000
8.573
8.573
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
308.162
308.162
18.683
18.683
5.429
5.429
53.552
53.552
492.731
492.731
Hawaii
Hawaii
30.805
30.805
11.972
11.972
41.870
41.870
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
1.736
1.736
14.491
14.491
8.146
8.146
96.396
96.396
205.415
205.415
Idaho
Idaho
8.299
8.299
13.293
13.293
3.250
3.250
0.000
0.000
1.505
1.505
1.998
1.998
6.840
6.840
12.540
12.540
0.724
0.724
48.450
48.450
Il inois
Il inois
43.335
43.335
495.256
495.256
16.342
16.342
90.136
90.136
108.715
108.715
239.682
239.682
0.028
0.028
0.651
0.651
93.317
93.317
1,087.462
1,087.462
Indiana
Indiana
12.749
12.749
123.164
123.164
6.365
6.365
25.177
25.177
0.000
0.000
9.169
9.169
30.519
30.519
0.191
0.191
144.564
144.564
351.898
351.898
Iowa
Iowa
29.339
29.339
55.616
55.616
9.463
9.463
24.902
24.902
0.000
0.000
53.820
53.820
6.171
6.171
0.392
0.392
20.871
20.871
200.575
200.575
Kansas
Kansas
11.901
11.901
6.673
6.673
0.737
0.737
40.117
40.117
17.990
17.990
34.534
34.534
10.418
10.418
0.000
0.000
47.000
47.000
169.371
169.371
CRS-15
CRS-15
Work,
Emergency
Other
Educa-
Refundable
Pre-
and Short-
Benefits
Basic
Child
tion, and
Tax
K/Head
Child
Adminis-
Term
and
Total
State
Assistance
Care
Training
Credits
Start
Welfare
tration
Benefits
Services Spending
Kentucky
Kentucky
186.166
186.166
30.490
30.490
27.922
27.922
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
11.424
11.424
0.000
0.000
12.509
12.509
268.512
268.512
Louisiana
Louisiana
17.404
17.404
10.742
10.742
34.530
34.530
11.836
11.836
40.644
40.644
19.780
19.780
16.939
16.939
7.851
7.851
26.938
26.938
186.664
186.664
Maine
Maine
32.738
32.738
28.664
28.664
9.533
9.533
7.900
7.900
0.595
0.595
10.688
10.688
5.033
5.033
5.760
5.760
30.163
30.163
131.075
131.075
Maryland
Maryland
117.921
117.921
6.468
6.468
29.644
29.644
156.514
156.514
70.018
70.018
16.909
16.909
30.668
30.668
38.835
38.835
43.987
43.987
510.963
510.963
Massachusetts
Massachusetts
220.293
220.293
334.776
334.776
177.164
177.164
171.271
171.271
0.000
0.000
4.819
4.819
37.826
37.826
104.098
104.098
78.236
78.236
1,128.483
1,128.483
Michigan
Michigan
74.149
74.149
27.829
27.829
4.039
4.039
40.146
40.146
188.527
188.527
75.330
75.330
58.542
58.542
17.654
17.654
748.702
748.702
1,234.920
1,234.920
Minnesota
Minnesota
78.515
78.515
166.913
166.913
58.409
58.409
142.862
142.862
5.700
5.700
0.000
0.000
44.752
44.752
23.846
23.846
25.246
25.246
546.243
546.243
Mississippi
Mississippi
5.543
5.543
1.715
1.715
25.349
25.349
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
27.088
27.088
11.422
11.422
0.000
0.000
29.945
29.945
101.062
101.062
Missouri
Missouri
31.318
31.318
31.460
31.460
64.115
64.115
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
106.116
106.116
9.959
9.959
67.182
67.182
51.512
51.512
361.662
361.662
Montana
Montana
19.597
19.597
9.277
9.277
3.036
3.036
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
3.964
3.964
5.456
5.456
2.147
2.147
9.832
9.832
53.310
53.310
Nebraska
Nebraska
24.037
24.037
23.059
23.059
9.248
9.248
32.813
32.813
0.000
0.000
4.901
4.901
3.934
3.934
0.127
0.127
0.809
0.809
98.928
98.928
Nevada
Nevada
33.727
33.727
21.966
21.966
4.783
4.783
0.000
0.000
3.006
3.006
26.899
26.899
10.333
10.333
6.975
6.975
16.189
16.189
123.879
123.879
New Hampshire
New Hampshire
34.054
34.054
12.282
12.282
7.535
7.535
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
5.918
5.918
11.244
11.244
8.286
8.286
17.508
17.508
96.826
96.826
New Jersey
New Jersey
69.186
69.186
163.904
163.904
69.698
69.698
373.073
373.073
559.777
559.777
0.000
0.000
48.640
48.640
14.785
14.785
64.225
64.225
1,363.288
1,363.288
New Mexico
New Mexico
47.430
47.430
32.976
32.976
17.272
17.272
45.478
45.478
47.614
47.614
0.317
0.317
4.760
4.760
9.473
9.473
26.815
26.815
232.134
232.134
New York
New York
1,473.353
1,473.353
467.812
467.812
162.000
162.000
1,324.586
1,324.586
492.403
492.403
339.964
339.964
424.079
424.079
266.100
266.100
334.652
334.652
5,284.951
5,284.951
North Carolina
North Carolina
32.930
32.930
198.883
198.883
5.566
5.566
0.000
0.000
90.203
90.203
131.687
131.687
47.863
47.863
5.117
5.117
52.186
52.186
564.436
564.436
North Dakota
North Dakota
3.896
3.896
1.117
1.117
3.714
3.714
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
18.430
18.430
3.680
3.680
0.015
0.015
1.151
1.151
32.002
32.002
Ohio
Ohio
239.856
239.856
410.532
410.532
78.974
78.974
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
20.101
20.101
112.034
112.034
57.001
57.001
234.621
234.621
1,153.119
1,153.119
Oklahoma
Oklahoma
17.988
17.988
32.714
32.714
11.092
11.092
0.000
0.000
9.059
9.059
19.263
19.263
8.418
8.418
0.629
0.629
29.307
29.307
128.471
128.471
Oregon
Oregon
84.649
84.649
11.951
11.951
19.574
19.574
3.381
3.381
11.924
11.924
13.786
13.786
24.708
24.708
29.005
29.005
38.863
38.863
237.841
237.841
CRS-16
CRS-16
Work,
Emergency
Other
Educa-
Refundable
Pre-
and Short-
Benefits
Basic
Child
tion, and
Tax
K/Head
Child
Adminis-
Term
and
Total
State
Assistance
Care
Training
Credits
Start
Welfare
tration
Benefits
Services Spending
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
151.419
151.419
506.841
506.841
99.100
99.100
0.000
0.000
235.879
235.879
0.000
0.000
80.402
80.402
14.261
14.261
143.073
143.073
1,230.975
1,230.975
Rhode Island
Rhode Island
23.911
23.911
45.352
45.352
12.079
12.079
22.715
22.715
0.000
0.000
33.194
33.194
5.022
5.022
27.702
27.702
12.662
12.662
182.638
182.638
South Carolina
South Carolina
52.507
52.507
4.085
4.085
9.840
9.840
0.000
0.000
27.193
27.193
6.693
6.693
21.205
21.205
0.000
0.000
43.959
43.959
165.482
165.482
South Dakota
South Dakota
13.246
13.246
0.803
0.803
3.261
3.261
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
3.125
3.125
1.823
1.823
2.264
2.264
2.847
2.847
27.369
27.369
Tennessee
Tennessee
57.657
57.657
0.000
0.000
19.316
19.316
0.000
0.000
82.092
82.092
0.000
0.000
26.804
26.804
0.000
0.000
2.427
2.427
188.297
188.297
Texas
Texas
39.782
39.782
0.000
0.000
83.597
83.597
0.000
0.000
349.682
349.682
324.487
324.487
118.891
118.891
5.686
5.686
70.626
70.626
992.751
992.751
Utah
Utah
22.529
22.529
22.922
22.922
19.109
19.109
0.000
0.000
10.122
10.122
1.567
1.567
7.981
7.981
1.835
1.835
18.884
18.884
104.949
104.949
Vermont
Vermont
13.716
13.716
32.255
32.255
1.923
1.923
19.420
19.420
0.000
0.000
6.998
6.998
5.533
5.533
1.447
1.447
14.856
14.856
96.147
96.147
Virginia
Virginia
62.525
62.525
38.527
38.527
37.792
37.792
0.524
0.524
4.009
4.009
55.156
55.156
49.769
49.769
4.556
4.556
34.619
34.619
287.476
287.476
Washington
Washington
141.868
141.868
144.488
144.488
99.704
99.704
0.000
0.000
50.235
50.235
4.152
4.152
87.620
87.620
63.991
63.991
416.008
416.008
1,008.066
1,008.066
West Virginia
West Virginia
25.140
25.140
10.021
10.021
0.344
0.344
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
31.140
31.140
12.543
12.543
14.229
14.229
23.623
23.623
117.041
117.041
Wisconsin
Wisconsin
71.793
71.793
201.426
201.426
31.826
31.826
69.700
69.700
0.000
0.000
6.413
6.413
31.914
31.914
38.011
38.011
126.522
126.522
577.606
577.606
Wyoming
Wyoming
8.321
8.321
2.883
2.883
4.742
4.742
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
4.329
4.329
3.294
3.294
1.982
1.982
25.551
25.551
Totals
Totals
6,510.603
6,510.603
5,044.598
5,044.598
3,231.368
3,231.368
2,761.975 2,601.063 2,589.039
2,761.975 2,601.063 2,589.039
2,224.139
2,224.139
1,326.224 4,614.682 30,903.691
1,326.224 4,614.682 30,903.691
Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Notes: Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in tribal TANF programs. Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in tribal TANF programs.
CRS-17
CRS-17
Table B-2. Uses of FY2018 TANF and MOE Funds by Category as a Percentage of Total Federal TANF and State MOE
Spending
Work,
Emergency
Other
Education,
Refund-
Pre-
and Short-
Benefits
Basic
Child
and
able Tax
K/Head
Child
Adminis-
Term
and
Total
State
Assistance
Care
Training
Credits
Start
Welfare
tration
Benefits
Services
Spending
Alabama
Alabama
9.8%
9.8%
3.1%
3.1%
4.2%
4.2%
0.0%
0.0%
12.4%
12.4%
21.6%
21.6%
7.3%
7.3%
21.6%
21.6%
19.9%
19.9%
100.0%
100.0%
Alaska
Alaska
43.8
43.8
17.4
17.4
12.0
12.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
7.3
7.3
0.4
0.4
19.1
19.1
100.0
100.0
Arizona
Arizona
12.6
12.6
0.0
0.0
0.2
0.2
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
61.0
61.0
4.6
4.6
7.7
7.7
13.9
13.9
100.0
100.0
Arkansas
Arkansas
6.1
6.1
3.3
3.3
17.5
17.5
0.0
0.0
37.6
37.6
0.3
0.3
20.6
20.6
6.0
6.0
8.5
8.5
100.0
100.0
California
California
33.7
33.7
12.2
12.2
26.9
26.9
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
8.2
8.2
4.2
4.2
14.8
14.8
100.0
100.0
Colorado
Colorado
19.7
19.7
3.2
3.2
3.0
3.0
20.0
20.0
15.5
15.5
13.1
13.1
4.8
4.8
4.7
4.7
15.9
15.9
100.0
100.0
Connecticut
Connecticut
8.4
8.4
8.3
8.3
2.2
2.2
11.8
11.8
16.5
16.5
14.1
14.1
7.7
7.7
4.2
4.2
26.8
26.8
100.0
100.0
Delaware
Delaware
9.8
9.8
68.4
68.4
1.6
1.6
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
4.2
4.2
1.6
1.6
14.5
14.5
100.0
100.0
District of Columbia
District of Columbia
44.8
44.8
16.1
16.1
9.4
9.4
6.4
6.4
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
2.6
2.6
18.8
18.8
1.9
1.9
100.0
100.0
Florida
Florida
16.1
16.1
32.1
32.1
5.1
5.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
27.7
27.7
9.8
9.8
0.1
0.1
9.0
9.0
100.0
100.0
Georgia
Georgia
20.0
20.0
0.0
0.0
1.7
1.7
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
62.5
62.5
3.8
3.8
1.1
1.1
10.9
10.9
100.0
100.0
Hawaii
Hawaii
15.0
15.0
5.8
5.8
20.4
20.4
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.8
0.8
7.1
7.1
4.0
4.0
46.9
46.9
100.0
100.0
Idaho
Idaho
17.1
17.1
27.4
27.4
6.7
6.7
0.0
0.0
3.1
3.1
4.1
4.1
14.1
14.1
25.9
25.9
1.5
1.5
100.0
100.0
Il inois
Il inois
4.0
4.0
45.5
45.5
1.5
1.5
8.3
8.3
10.0
10.0
22.0
22.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.1
8.6
8.6
100.0
100.0
Indiana
Indiana
3.6
3.6
35.0
35.0
1.8
1.8
7.2
7.2
0.0
0.0
2.6
2.6
8.7
8.7
0.1
0.1
41.1
41.1
100.0
100.0
Iowa
Iowa
14.6
14.6
27.7
27.7
4.7
4.7
12.4
12.4
0.0
0.0
26.8
26.8
3.1
3.1
0.2
0.2
10.4
10.4
100.0
100.0
Kansas
Kansas
7.0
7.0
3.9
3.9
0.4
0.4
23.7
23.7
10.6
10.6
20.4
20.4
6.2
6.2
0.0
0.0
27.7
27.7
100.0
100.0
Kentucky
Kentucky
69.3
69.3
11.4
11.4
10.4
10.4
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
4.3
4.3
0.0
0.0
4.7
4.7
100.0
100.0
Louisiana
Louisiana
9.3
9.3
5.8
5.8
18.5
18.5
6.3
6.3
21.8
21.8
10.6
10.6
9.1
9.1
4.2
4.2
14.4
14.4
100.0
100.0
CRS-18
CRS-18
Work,
Emergency
Other
Education,
Refund-
Pre-
and Short-
Benefits
Basic
Child
and
able Tax
K/Head
Child
Adminis-
Term
and
Total
State
Assistance
Care
Training
Credits
Start
Welfare
tration
Benefits
Services
Spending
Maine
Maine
25.0
25.0
21.9
21.9
7.3
7.3
6.0
6.0
0.5
0.5
8.2
8.2
3.8
3.8
4.4
4.4
23.0
23.0
100.0
100.0
Maryland
Maryland
23.1
23.1
1.3
1.3
5.8
5.8
30.6
30.6
13.7
13.7
3.3
3.3
6.0
6.0
7.6
7.6
8.6
8.6
100.0
100.0
Massachusetts
Massachusetts
19.5
19.5
29.7
29.7
15.7
15.7
15.2
15.2
0.0
0.0
0.4
0.4
3.4
3.4
9.2
9.2
6.9
6.9
100.0
100.0
Michigan
Michigan
6.0
6.0
2.3
2.3
0.3
0.3
3.3
3.3
15.3
15.3
6.1
6.1
4.7
4.7
1.4
1.4
60.6
60.6
100.0
100.0
Minnesota
Minnesota
14.4
14.4
30.6
30.6
10.7
10.7
26.2
26.2
1.0
1.0
0.0
0.0
8.2
8.2
4.4
4.4
4.6
4.6
100.0
100.0
Mississippi
Mississippi
5.5
5.5
1.7
1.7
25.1
25.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
26.8
26.8
11.3
11.3
0.0
0.0
29.6
29.6
100.0
100.0
Missouri
Missouri
8.7
8.7
8.7
8.7
17.7
17.7
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
29.3
29.3
2.8
2.8
18.6
18.6
14.2
14.2
100.0
100.0
Montana
Montana
36.8
36.8
17.4
17.4
5.7
5.7
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
7.4
7.4
10.2
10.2
4.0
4.0
18.4
18.4
100.0
100.0
Nebraska
Nebraska
24.3
24.3
23.3
23.3
9.3
9.3
33.2
33.2
0.0
0.0
5.0
5.0
4.0
4.0
0.1
0.1
0.8
0.8
100.0
100.0
Nevada
Nevada
27.2
27.2
17.7
17.7
3.9
3.9
0.0
0.0
2.4
2.4
21.7
21.7
8.3
8.3
5.6
5.6
13.1
13.1
100.0
100.0
New Hampshire
New Hampshire
35.2
35.2
12.7
12.7
7.8
7.8
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
6.1
6.1
11.6
11.6
8.6
8.6
18.1
18.1
100.0
100.0
New Jersey
New Jersey
5.1
5.1
12.0
12.0
5.1
5.1
27.4
27.4
41.1
41.1
0.0
0.0
3.6
3.6
1.1
1.1
4.7
4.7
100.0
100.0
New Mexico
New Mexico
20.4
20.4
14.2
14.2
7.4
7.4
19.6
19.6
20.5
20.5
0.1
0.1
2.1
2.1
4.1
4.1
11.6
11.6
100.0
100.0
New York
New York
27.9
27.9
8.9
8.9
3.1
3.1
25.1
25.1
9.3
9.3
6.4
6.4
8.0
8.0
5.0
5.0
6.3
6.3
100.0
100.0
North Carolina
North Carolina
5.8
5.8
35.2
35.2
1.0
1.0
0.0
0.0
16.0
16.0
23.3
23.3
8.5
8.5
0.9
0.9
9.2
9.2
100.0
100.0
North Dakota
North Dakota
12.2
12.2
3.5
3.5
11.6
11.6
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
57.6
57.6
11.5
11.5
0.0
0.0
3.6
3.6
100.0
100.0
Ohio
Ohio
20.8
20.8
35.6
35.6
6.8
6.8
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
1.7
1.7
9.7
9.7
4.9
4.9
20.3
20.3
100.0
100.0
Oklahoma
Oklahoma
14.0
14.0
25.5
25.5
8.6
8.6
0.0
0.0
7.1
7.1
15.0
15.0
6.6
6.6
0.5
0.5
22.8
22.8
100.0
100.0
Oregon
Oregon
35.6
35.6
5.0
5.0
8.2
8.2
1.4
1.4
5.0
5.0
5.8
5.8
10.4
10.4
12.2
12.2
16.3
16.3
100.0
100.0
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
12.3
12.3
41.2
41.2
8.1
8.1
0.0
0.0
19.2
19.2
0.0
0.0
6.5
6.5
1.2
1.2
11.6
11.6
100.0
100.0
Rhode Island
Rhode Island
13.1
13.1
24.8
24.8
6.6
6.6
12.4
12.4
0.0
0.0
18.2
18.2
2.7
2.7
15.2
15.2
6.9
6.9
100.0
100.0
CRS-19
CRS-19
Work,
Emergency
Other
Education,
Refund-
Pre-
and Short-
Benefits
Basic
Child
and
able Tax
K/Head
Child
Adminis-
Term
and
Total
State
Assistance
Care
Training
Credits
Start
Welfare
tration
Benefits
Services
Spending
South Carolina
South Carolina
31.7
31.7
2.5
2.5
5.9
5.9
0.0
0.0
16.4
16.4
4.0
4.0
12.8
12.8
0.0
0.0
26.6
26.6
100.0
100.0
South Dakota
South Dakota
48.4
48.4
2.9
2.9
11.9
11.9
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
11.4
11.4
6.7
6.7
8.3
8.3
10.4
10.4
100.0
100.0
Tennessee
Tennessee
30.6
30.6
0.0
0.0
10.3
10.3
0.0
0.0
43.6
43.6
0.0
0.0
14.2
14.2
0.0
0.0
1.3
1.3
100.0
100.0
Texas
Texas
4.0
4.0
0.0
0.0
8.4
8.4
0.0
0.0
35.2
35.2
32.7
32.7
12.0
12.0
0.6
0.6
7.1
7.1
100.0
100.0
Utah
Utah
21.5
21.5
21.8
21.8
18.2
18.2
0.0
0.0
9.6
9.6
1.5
1.5
7.6
7.6
1.7
1.7
18.0
18.0
100.0
100.0
Vermont
Vermont
14.3
14.3
33.5
33.5
2.0
2.0
20.2
20.2
0.0
0.0
7.3
7.3
5.8
5.8
1.5
1.5
15.5
15.5
100.0
100.0
Virginia
Virginia
21.7
21.7
13.4
13.4
13.1
13.1
0.2
0.2
1.4
1.4
19.2
19.2
17.3
17.3
1.6
1.6
12.0
12.0
100.0
100.0
Washington
Washington
14.1
14.1
14.3
14.3
9.9
9.9
0.0
0.0
5.0
5.0
0.4
0.4
8.7
8.7
6.3
6.3
41.3
41.3
100.0
100.0
West Virginia
West Virginia
21.5
21.5
8.6
8.6
0.3
0.3
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
26.6
26.6
10.7
10.7
12.2
12.2
20.2
20.2
100.0
100.0
Wisconsin
Wisconsin
12.4
12.4
34.9
34.9
5.5
5.5
12.1
12.1
0.0
0.0
1.1
1.1
5.5
5.5
6.6
6.6
21.9
21.9
100.0
100.0
Wyoming
Wyoming
32.6
32.6
11.3
11.3
18.6
18.6
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
16.9
16.9
12.9
12.9
7.8
7.8
100.0
100.0
Totals
Totals
21.1
21.1
16.3
16.3
10.5
10.5
8.9
8.9
8.4
8.4
8.4
8.4
7.2
7.2
4.3
4.3
14.9
14.9
100.0
100.0
Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Notes: Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in tribal TANF programs. Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in tribal TANF programs.
CRS-20
CRS-20
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Table B-3. Unspent TANF Funds at the End of FY2019
(September 30, 2019; $ in Millions)
(September 30, 2019; $ in Millions)
Unliquidated
State
Obligations
Unobligated Balance
Alabama
Alabama
$50.8
$50.8
$59.6
$59.6
Alaska
Alaska
1.9
1.9
30.5
30.5
Arizona
Arizona
0.0
0.0
41.8
41.8
Arkansas
Arkansas
40.9
40.9
49.2
49.2
California
California
259.3
259.3
0.0
0.0
Colorado
Colorado
0.0
0.0
103.1
103.1
Connecticut
Connecticut
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Delaware
Delaware
3.1
3.1
29.7
29.7
District of Columbia
District of Columbia
0.0
0.0
31.1
31.1
Florida
Florida
64.5
64.5
0.0
0.0
Georgia
Georgia
39.7
39.7
48.1
48.1
Hawaii
Hawaii
23.7
23.7
328.1
328.1
Idaho
Idaho
0.0
0.0
8.7
8.7
Il inois
Il inois
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Indiana
Indiana
5.0
5.0
32.4
32.4
Iowa
Iowa
0.0
0.0
0.9
0.9
Kansas
Kansas
3.3
3.3
69.4
69.4
Kentucky
Kentucky
0.0
0.0
48.7
48.7
Louisiana
Louisiana
45.5
45.5
4.0
4.0
Maine
Maine
25.5
25.5
102.9
102.9
Maryland
Maryland
0.0
0.0
29.5
29.5
Massachusetts
Massachusetts
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Michigan
Michigan
0.0
0.0
99.2
99.2
Minnesota
Minnesota
0.0
0.0
64.4
64.4
Mississippi
Mississippi
0.0
0.0
15.7
15.7
Missouri
Missouri
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Montana
Montana
0.0
0.0
14.4
14.4
Nebraska
Nebraska
0.0
0.0
79.4
79.4
Nevada
Nevada
0.0
0.0
28.9
28.9
New Hampshire
New Hampshire
0.0
0.0
35.9
35.9
New Jersey
New Jersey
54.8
54.8
6.3
6.3
New Mexico
New Mexico
0.0
0.0
94.1
94.1
New York
New York
17.4
17.4
649.1
649.1
North Carolina
North Carolina
64.6
64.6
0.0
0.0
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
21
21
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Unliquidated
State
Obligations
Unobligated Balance
North Dakota
North Dakota
0.0
0.0
5.3
5.3
Ohio
Ohio
582.4
582.4
0.0
0.0
Oklahoma
Oklahoma
0.8
0.8
212.6
212.6
Oregon
Oregon
0.0
0.0
33.5
33.5
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
93.2
93.2
403.3
403.3
Rhode Island
Rhode Island
0.0
0.0
12.6
12.6
South Carolina
South Carolina
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
South Dakota
South Dakota
0.0
0.0
22.0
22.0
Tennessee
Tennessee
0.0
0.0
731.9
731.9
Texas
Texas
0.0
0.0
330.3
330.3
Utah
Utah
0.0
0.0
55.9
55.9
Vermont
Vermont
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Virginia
Virginia
6.7
6.7
133.6
133.6
Washington
Washington
0.0
0.0
111.9
111.9
West Virginia
West Virginia
0.0
0.0
101.8
101.8
Wisconsin
Wisconsin
0.0
0.0
186.5
186.5
Wyoming
Wyoming
0.0
0.0
28.6
28.6
Totals
Totals
1,383.0
1,383.0
4,475.2
4,475.2
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: 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, November 2020
State
Families
Recipients Children
Adults
Alabama
Alabama
7,228
7,228
16,719
16,719
13,642
13,642
3,077
3,077
Alaska
Alaska
2,013
2,013
5,376
5,376
3,692
3,692
1,684
1,684
Arizona
Arizona
7,581
7,581
15,342
15,342
12,680
12,680
2,662
2,662
Arkansas
Arkansas
1,953
1,953
4,492
4,492
3,431
3,431
1,061
1,061
California
California
308,432
308,432
984,915
984,915
704,151
704,151
280,764
280,764
Colorado
Colorado
12,359
12,359
30,023
30,023
22,338
22,338
7,685
7,685
Connecticut
Connecticut
6,320
6,320
13,403
13,403
9,791
9,791
3,612
3,612
Delaware
Delaware
2,650
2,650
7,356
7,356
4,296
4,296
3,060
3,060
District of Columbia
District of Columbia
7,465
7,465
21,847
21,847
16,103
16,103
5,744
5,744
Florida
Florida
41,491
41,491
75,073
75,073
59,340
59,340
15,733
15,733
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
State
Families
Recipients Children
Adults
Georgia
Georgia
8,060
8,060
15,222
15,222
13,889
13,889
1,333
1,333
Guam
Guam
437
437
1,078
1,078
834
834
244
244
Hawaii
Hawaii
6,881
6,881
21,265
21,265
13,595
13,595
7,670
7,670
Idaho
Idaho
1,773
1,773
2,496
2,496
2,456
2,456
40
40
Il inois
Il inois
10,735
10,735
21,098
21,098
18,996
18,996
2,102
2,102
Indiana
Indiana
8,327
8,327
19,721
19,721
15,351
15,351
4,370
4,370
Iowa
Iowa
7,504
7,504
17,947
17,947
13,759
13,759
4,188
4,188
Kansas
Kansas
3,520
3,520
3,520
3,520
1,882
1,882
1,638
1,638
Kentucky
Kentucky
14,168
14,168
28,696
28,696
24,903
24,903
3,793
3,793
Louisiana
Louisiana
3,855
3,855
8,982
8,982
7,555
7,555
1,427
1,427
Maine
Maine
11,778
11,778
39,372
39,372
24,821
24,821
14,551
14,551
Maryland
Maryland
23,055
23,055
56,580
56,580
39,938
39,938
16,642
16,642
Massachusetts
Massachusetts
41,560
41,560
108,953
108,953
77,773
77,773
31,180
31,180
Michigan
Michigan
10,762
10,762
26,774
26,774
21,444
21,444
5,330
5,330
Minnesota
Minnesota
19,680
19,680
47,585
47,585
35,101
35,101
12,484
12,484
Mississippi
Mississippi
1,877
1,877
3,158
3,158
2,888
2,888
270
270
Missouri
Missouri
8,776
8,776
20,513
20,513
15,579
15,579
4,934
4,934
Montana
Montana
2,438
2,438
5,696
5,696
4,557
4,557
1,139
1,139
Nebraska
Nebraska
4,737
4,737
11,759
11,759
9,644
9,644
2,115
2,115
Nevada
Nevada
6,658
6,658
17,198
17,198
12,826
12,826
4,372
4,372
New Hampshire
New Hampshire
4,422
4,422
10,342
10,342
7,713
7,713
2,629
2,629
New Jersey
New Jersey
9,459
9,459
22,892
22,892
16,902
16,902
5,990
5,990
New Mexico
New Mexico
11,582
11,582
29,935
29,935
21,739
21,739
8,196
8,196
New York
New York
113,201
113,201
289,625
289,625
198,575
198,575
91,050
91,050
North Carolina
North Carolina
13,775
13,775
25,289
25,289
22,273
22,273
3,016
3,016
North Dakota
North Dakota
1,078
1,078
2,820
2,820
2,244
2,244
576
576
Ohio
Ohio
51,566
51,566
94,341
94,341
84,268
84,268
10,073
10,073
Oklahoma
Oklahoma
5,592
5,592
12,901
12,901
10,932
10,932
1,969
1,969
Oregon
Oregon
25,192
25,192
72,859
72,859
48,144
48,144
24,715
24,715
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
29,869
29,869
71,549
71,549
55,079
55,079
16,470
16,470
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico
4,357
4,357
11,800
11,800
7,195
7,195
4,605
4,605
Rhode Island
Rhode Island
2,577
2,577
6,094
6,094
4,622
4,622
1,472
1,472
South Carolina
South Carolina
8,133
8,133
18,749
18,749
15,127
15,127
3,622
3,622
South Dakota
South Dakota
2,716
2,716
5,495
5,495
5,051
5,051
444
444
Tennessee
Tennessee
15,578
15,578
32,436
32,436
26,923
26,923
5,513
5,513
Texas
Texas
21,404
21,404
44,545
44,545
37,455
37,455
7,090
7,090
Utah
Utah
2,657
2,657
6,195
6,195
4,621
4,621
1,574
1,574
Congressional Research Service
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
State
Families
Recipients Children
Adults
Vermont
Vermont
2,052
2,052
4,305
4,305
3,233
3,233
1,072
1,072
Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands
69
69
225
225
156
156
69
69
Virginia
Virginia
18,311
18,311
34,337
34,337
26,552
26,552
7,785
7,785
Washington
Washington
41,979
41,979
99,966
99,966
66,093
66,093
33,873
33,873
West Virginia
West Virginia
5,703
5,703
11,121
11,121
9,379
9,379
1,742
1,742
Wisconsin
Wisconsin
16,495
16,495
37,683
37,683
30,420
30,420
7,263
7,263
Wyoming
Wyoming
487
487
1,136
1,136
869
869
267
267
Totals
Totals
1,002,327
1,002,327
2,598,799
2,598,799
1,912,820 1,912,820
685,979
685,979
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, November of Selected Years
Percentage Change
to 2020 from …
1994-
2019-
1994
2010
2019
2020
2020
2020
Alabama Alabama
48,142
48,142
23,954
23,954
7,456
7,456
7,228
7,228
-85.0%
-85.0%
-3.1%
-3.1%
Alaska
Alaska
12,145
12,145
3,423
3,423
2,110
2,110
2,013
2,013
-83.4
-83.4
-4.6
-4.6
Arizona
Arizona
72,171
72,171
19,406
19,406
7,108
7,108
7,581
7,581
-89.5
-89.5
6.7
6.7
Arkansas
Arkansas
25,039
25,039
8,525
8,525
2,364
2,364
1,953
1,953
-92.2
-92.2
-17.4
-17.4
California
California
914,344
914,344
593,714
593,714
363,509
363,509
308,432
308,432
-66.3
-66.3
-15.2
-15.2
Colorado
Colorado
39,171
39,171
11,998
11,998
13,671
13,671
12,359
12,359
-68.4
-68.4
-9.6
-9.6
Connecticut
Connecticut
60,846
60,846
16,922
16,922
7,659
7,659
6,320
6,320
-89.6
-89.6
-17.5
-17.5
Delaware
Delaware
11,102
11,102
5,794
5,794
3,226
3,226
2,650
2,650
-76.1
-76.1
-17.9
-17.9
District of Columbia
District of Columbia
27,390
27,390
9,963
9,963
7,243
7,243
7,465
7,465
-72.7
-72.7
3.1
3.1
Florida
Florida
239,902
239,902
57,861
57,861
38,479
38,479
41,491
41,491
-82.7
-82.7
7.8
7.8
Georgia
Georgia
141,307
141,307
20,630
20,630
8,719
8,719
8,060
8,060
-94.3
-94.3
-7.6
-7.6
Guam
Guam
2,060
2,060
1,289
1,289
422
422
437
437
-78.8
-78.8
3.6
3.6
Hawaii
Hawaii
21,415
21,415
10,019
10,019
4,022
4,022
6,881
6,881
-67.9
-67.9
71.1
71.1
Idaho
Idaho
8,608
8,608
1,809
1,809
2,014
2,014
1,773
1,773
-79.4
-79.4
-12.0
-12.0
Il inois
Il inois
239,840
239,840
26,014
26,014
10,957
10,957
10,735
10,735
-95.5
-95.5
-2.0
-2.0
Indiana
Indiana
70,161
70,161
33,553
33,553
5,410
5,410
8,327
8,327
-88.1
-88.1
53.9
53.9
Iowa
37,941
21,478
8,787
7,504
-80.2
-14.6
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Percentage Change
to 2020 from …
1994-
2019-
1994
2010
2019
2020
2020
2020
Iowa
37,941
21,478
8,787
7,504
-80.2
-14.6
Kansas Kansas
28,774
28,774
15,563
15,563
3,984
3,984
3,520
3,520
-87.8
-87.8
-11.6
-11.6
Kentucky
Kentucky
77,403
77,403
31,175
31,175
16,234
16,234
14,168
14,168
-81.7
-81.7
-12.7
-12.7
Louisiana
Louisiana
84,031
84,031
11,062
11,062
4,478
4,478
3,855
3,855
-95.4
-95.4
-13.9
-13.9
Maine
Maine
21,782
21,782
15,397
15,397
14,586
14,586
11,778
11,778
-45.9
-45.9
-19.3
-19.3
Maryland
Maryland
80,480
80,480
25,347
25,347
16,761
16,761
23,055
23,055
-71.4
-71.4
37.6
37.6
Massachusetts
Massachusetts
106,736
106,736
50,878
50,878
50,505
50,505
41,560
41,560
-61.1
-61.1
-17.7
-17.7
Michigan
Michigan
211,259
211,259
68,790
68,790
11,119
11,119
10,762
10,762
-94.9
-94.9
-3.2
-3.2
Minnesota
Minnesota
61,352
61,352
24,759
24,759
15,087
15,087
19,680
19,680
-67.9
-67.9
30.4
30.4
Mississippi
Mississippi
53,652
53,652
12,052
12,052
3,011
3,011
1,877
1,877
-96.5
-96.5
-37.7
-37.7
Missouri
Missouri
91,205
91,205
39,737
39,737
9,687
9,687
8,776
8,776
-90.4
-90.4
-9.4
-9.4
Montana
Montana
11,464
11,464
3,650
3,650
3,266
3,266
2,438
2,438
-78.7
-78.7
-25.4
-25.4
Nebraska
Nebraska
15,543
15,543
8,381
8,381
4,346
4,346
4,737
4,737
-69.5
-69.5
9.0
9.0
Nevada
Nevada
15,330
15,330
10,778
10,778
7,821
7,821
6,658
6,658
-56.6
-56.6
-14.9
-14.9
New Hampshire
New Hampshire
11,154
11,154
6,097
6,097
5,286
5,286
4,422
4,422
-60.4
-60.4
-16.3
-16.3
New Jersey
New Jersey
113,444
113,444
34,996
34,996
9,003
9,003
9,459
9,459
-91.7
-91.7
5.1
5.1
New Mexico
New Mexico
34,906
34,906
21,447
21,447
9,901
9,901
11,582
11,582
-66.8
-66.8
17.0
17.0
New York
New York
462,309
462,309
157,247
157,247
112,549
112,549
113,201
113,201
-75.5
-75.5
0.6
0.6
North Carolina
North Carolina
127,829
127,829
23,879
23,879
14,236
14,236
13,775
13,775
-89.2
-89.2
-3.2
-3.2
North Dakota
North Dakota
5,290
5,290
1,967
1,967
972
972
1,078
1,078
-79.6
-79.6
10.9
10.9
Ohio
Ohio
239,144
239,144
104,370
104,370
43,736
43,736
51,566
51,566
-78.4
-78.4
17.9
17.9
Oklahoma
Oklahoma
45,863
45,863
9,380
9,380
5,650
5,650
5,592
5,592
-87.8
-87.8
-1.0
-1.0
Oregon
Oregon
39,763
39,763
32,548
32,548
36,514
36,514
25,192
25,192
-36.6
-36.6
-31.0
-31.0
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
209,875
209,875
59,090
59,090
39,133
39,133
29,869
29,869
-85.8
-85.8
-23.7
-23.7
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico
56,378
56,378
13,953
13,953
4,410
4,410
4,357
4,357
-92.3
-92.3
-1.2
-1.2
Rhode Island
Rhode Island
22,581
22,581
6,648
6,648
3,846
3,846
2,577
2,577
-88.6
-88.6
-33.0
-33.0
South Carolina
South Carolina
50,351
50,351
19,371
19,371
8,220
8,220
8,133
8,133
-83.8
-83.8
-1.1
-1.1
South Dakota
South Dakota
6,434
6,434
3,247
3,247
2,928
2,928
2,716
2,716
-57.8
-57.8
-7.2
-7.2
Tennessee
Tennessee
107,498
107,498
63,925
63,925
18,804
18,804
15,578
15,578
-85.5
-85.5
-17.2
-17.2
Texas
Texas
281,897
281,897
52,970
52,970
21,904
21,904
21,404
21,404
-92.4
-92.4
-2.3
-2.3
Utah
Utah
17,387
17,387
7,097
7,097
3,133
3,133
2,657
2,657
-84.7
-84.7
-15.2
-15.2
Vermont
Vermont
9,691
9,691
3,264
3,264
2,665
2,665
2,052
2,052
-78.8
-78.8
-23.0
-23.0
Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands
1,222
1,222
526
526
101
101
69
69
-94.4
-94.4
-31.7
-31.7
Virginia
Virginia
73,692
73,692
37,478
37,478
16,586
16,586
18,311
18,311
-75.2
-75.2
10.4
10.4
Washington
Washington
102,718
102,718
67,762
67,762
35,846
35,846
41,979
41,979
-59.1
-59.1
17.1
17.1
West Virginia
39,299
10,747
6,361
5,703
-85.5
-10.3
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service
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25
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Percentage Change
to 2020 from …
1994-
2019-
1994
2010
2019
2020
2020
2020
West Virginia
39,299
10,747
6,361
5,703
-85.5
-10.3
Wisconsin Wisconsin
73,730
73,730
25,056
25,056
14,839
14,839
16,495
16,495
-77.6
-77.6
11.2
11.2
Wyoming
Wyoming
5,457
5,457
302
302
482
482
487
487
-91.1
-91.1
1.0
1.0
Totals
Totals
4,968,507
4,968,507
1,947,288
1,947,288
1,071,146
1,071,146
1,002,327
1,002,327
-79.8
-79.8
-6.4
-6.4
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). 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-6. TANF Work Participation Standard and Rate, By Jurisdiction for All
Families: FY2020
Effective
Caseload
(after-
Work
Statutory
Reduction
credit)
Participation
Met the
State
Standard
Credit
standard
Rate
Standard?
Alabama
Alabama
50.0%
50.0%
50.0%
50.0%
0.0%
0.0%
44.3%
44.3%
Yes
Yes
Alaska
Alaska
50.0
50.0
42.4
42.4
7.6
7.6
38.2
38.2
Yes
Yes
Arizona
Arizona
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
15.2
15.2
Yes
Yes
Arkansas
Arkansas
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
17.4
17.4
Yes
Yes
California
California
50.0
50.0
25.3
25.3
24.7
24.7
50.5
50.5
Yes
Yes
Colorado
Colorado
50.0
50.0
35.0
35.0
15.0
15.0
39.9
39.9
Yes
Yes
Connecticut
Connecticut
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
11.3
11.3
Yes
Yes
Delaware
Delaware
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
28.6
28.6
Yes
Yes
District of Col.
District of Col.
50.0
50.0
47.7
47.7
2.3
2.3
49.9
49.9
Yes
Yes
Florida
Florida
50.0
50.0
39.0
39.0
11.0
11.0
19.1
19.1
Yes
Yes
Georgia
Georgia
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
16.1
16.1
Yes
Yes
Guam
Guam
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
9.6
9.6
Yes
Yes
Hawaii
Hawaii
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
18.2
18.2
Yes
Yes
Idaho
Idaho
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
50.0
50.0
54.7
54.7
Yes
Yes
Il inois
Il inois
50.0
50.0
46.1
46.1
3.9
3.9
66.5
66.5
Yes
Yes
Indiana
Indiana
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
21.3
21.3
Yes
Yes
Iowa
Iowa
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
20.0
20.0
Yes
Yes
Kansas
Kansas
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
31.8
31.8
Yes
Yes
Kentucky
Kentucky
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
41.0
41.0
Yes
Yes
Louisiana
50.0
50.0
0.0
3.5
Yes
Maine
50.0
0.0
50.0
83.5
Yes
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Effective
Caseload
(after-
Work
Statutory
Reduction
credit)
Participation
Met the
State
Standard
Credit
standard
Rate
Standard?
Louisiana
50.0
50.0
0.0
3.5
Yes
Maine
50.0
0.0
50.0
83.5
Yes
Maryland
Maryland
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
14.3
14.3
Yes
Yes
Massachusetts
Massachusetts
50.0
50.0
25.1
25.1
24.9
24.9
56.9
56.9
Yes
Yes
Michigan
Michigan
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
32.2
32.2
Yes
Yes
Minnesota
Minnesota
50.0
50.0
44.6
44.6
5.4
5.4
22.3
22.3
Yes
Yes
Mississippi
Mississippi
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
40.3
40.3
Yes
Yes
Missouri
Missouri
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
17.1
17.1
Yes
Yes
Montana
Montana
50.0
50.0
18.4
18.4
31.6
31.6
35.5
35.5
Yes
Yes
Nebraska
Nebraska
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
10.2
10.2
Yes
Yes
Nevada
Nevada
50.0
50.0
39.2
39.2
10.8
10.8
27.0
27.0
Yes
Yes
New Hampshire
New Hampshire
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
50.0
50.0
55.1
55.1
Yes
Yes
New Jersey
New Jersey
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
17.4
17.4
Yes
Yes
New Mexico
New Mexico
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
25.8
25.8
Yes
Yes
New York
New York
50.0
50.0
48.9
48.9
1.1
1.1
17.8
17.8
Yes
Yes
North Carolina
North Carolina
50.0
50.0
47.7
47.7
2.3
2.3
10.0
10.0
Yes
Yes
North Dakota
North Dakota
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
35.2
35.2
Yes
Yes
Ohio
Ohio
50.0
50.0
42.5
42.5
7.5
7.5
29.4
29.4
Yes
Yes
Oklahoma
Oklahoma
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
20.1
20.1
Yes
Yes
Oregon
Oregon
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
50.0
50.0
59.6
59.6
Yes
Yes
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
14.5
14.5
Yes
Yes
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
6.6
6.6
Yes
Yes
Rhode Island
Rhode Island
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
6.8
6.8
Yes
Yes
South Carolina
South Carolina
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
20.4
20.4
Yes
Yes
South Dakota
South Dakota
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
50.0
50.0
52.7
52.7
Yes
Yes
Tennessee
Tennessee
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
33.6
33.6
Yes
Yes
Texas
Texas
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
11.3
11.3
Yes
Yes
Utah
Utah
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
13.0
13.0
Yes
Yes
Vermont
Vermont
50.0
50.0
46.7
46.7
3.3
3.3
39.7
39.7
Yes
Yes
Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
4.1
4.1
Yes
Yes
Virginia
Virginia
50.0
50.0
45.5
45.5
4.5
4.5
29.3
29.3
Yes
Yes
Washington
Washington
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
41.8
41.8
Yes
Yes
West Virginia
West Virginia
50.0
50.0
48.6
48.6
1.4
1.4
24.8
24.8
Yes
Yes
Wisconsin
Wisconsin
50.0
50.0
42.2
42.2
7.8
7.8
37.3
37.3
Yes
Yes
Wyoming
Wyoming
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
50.0
50.0
76.0
76.0
Yes
Yes
Congressional Research Service
27
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
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).
Congressional Research Service
27
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Table B-7. TANF Work Participation Standard and Rate, By Jurisdiction, for Two-
Parent Families: FY2020
Effective
Caseload
(after-
Work
Statutory
Reduction
credit
Participation
Met the
State
Standard
Credit
standard)
Rate
Standard?
Alabama
Alabama
90.0%
90.0%
90.0%
90.0%
0.0%
0.0%
48.1%
48.1%
Yes
Yes
Alaska
Alaska
90.0
90.0
54.8
54.8
35.2
35.2
52.1
52.1
Yes
Yes
Arizona
Arizona
90.0
90.0
76.0
76.0
14.0
14.0
27.1
27.1
Yes
Yes
Arkansas
Arkansas
90.0
90.0
75.8
75.8
14.2
14.2
16.8
16.8
Yes
Yes
California
California
90.0
90.0
30.5
30.5
59.5
59.5
27.5
27.5
No
No
Colorado
Colorado
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Connecticut
Connecticut
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Delaware
Delaware
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
District of Col.
District of Col.
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Florida
Florida
90.0
90.0
86.7
86.7
3.3
3.3
17.1
17.1
Yes
Yes
Georgia
Georgia
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Guam
Guam
90.0
90.0
52.9
52.9
37.1
37.1
9.5
9.5
No
No
Hawaii
Hawaii
90.0
90.0
77.9
77.9
12.1
12.1
26.4
26.4
Yes
Yes
Idaho
Idaho
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Il inois
Il inois
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Indiana
Indiana
90.0
90.0
83.2
83.2
6.8
6.8
29.3
29.3
Yes
Yes
Iowa
Iowa
90.0
90.0
84.5
84.5
5.5
5.5
13.1
13.1
Yes
Yes
Kansas
Kansas
90.0
90.0
77.1
77.1
12.9
12.9
33.8
33.8
Yes
Yes
Kentucky
Kentucky
90.0
90.0
56.0
56.0
34.0
34.0
43.0
43.0
Yes
Yes
Louisiana
Louisiana
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Maine
Maine
90.0
90.0
0.0
0.0
90.0
90.0
94.0
94.0
Yes
Yes
Maryland
Maryland
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Massachusetts
Massachusetts
90.0
90.0
25.1
25.1
64.9
64.9
86.0
86.0
Yes
Yes
Michigan
Michigan
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Minnesota
Minnesota
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Mississippi
Mississippi
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Missouri
Missouri
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Montana
Montana
90.0
90.0
54.8
54.8
35.2
35.2
41.8
41.8
Yes
Yes
Congressional Research Service
28
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Effective
Caseload
(after-
Work
Statutory
Reduction
credit
Participation
Met the
State
Standard
Credit
standard)
Rate
Standard?
Nebraska
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Nevada
90.0
39.2
50.8
38.3
No
New Hampshire
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
New Jersey
90.0
82.9
7.1
94.2
Yes
New Mexico
90.0
64.4
25.6
32.0
YesNebraska
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Nevada
90.0
39.2
50.8
38.3
No
New Hampshire
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
New Jersey
90.0
82.9
7.1
94.2
Yes
New Mexico
90.0
64.4
25.6
32.0
Yes
Congressional Research Service
28
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Effective
Caseload
(after-
Work
Statutory
Reduction
credit
Participation
Met the
State
Standard
Credit
standard)
Rate
Standard?
New York
New York
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
North Carolina
North Carolina
90.0
90.0
47.7
47.7
42.3
42.3
11.1
11.1
No
No
North Dakota
North Dakota
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Ohio
Ohio
90.0
90.0
88.6
88.6
1.4
1.4
27.8
27.8
Yes
Yes
Oklahoma
Oklahoma
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Oregon
Oregon
90.0
90.0
0.0
0.0
90.0
90.0
97.8
97.8
Yes
Yes
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
90.0
90.0
89.6
89.6
0.4
0.4
20.5
20.5
Yes
Yes
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Rhode Island
Rhode Island
90.0
90.0
62.4
62.4
27.6
27.6
7.3
7.3
No
No
South Carolina
South Carolina
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
South Dakota
South Dakota
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Tennessee
Tennessee
90.0
90.0
77.4
77.4
12.6
12.6
30.9
30.9
Yes
Yes
Texas
Texas
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Utah
Utah
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Vermont
Vermont
90.0
90.0
63.7
63.7
26.3
26.3
63.0
63.0
Yes
Yes
Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Virginia
Virginia
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Washington
Washington
90.0
90.0
51.9
51.9
38.1
38.1
62.4
62.4
Yes
Yes
West Virginia
West Virginia
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Wisconsin
Wisconsin
90.0
90.0
63.4
63.4
26.6
26.6
45.9
45.9
Yes
Yes
Wyoming
Wyoming
90.0
90.0
0.0
0.0
90.0
90.0
78.6
78.6
No
No
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).
Congressional Research Service
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Author Information
Gene Falk Gene Falk
Patrick A. Landers
Patrick A. Landers
Specialist in Social Policy
Specialist in Social Policy
Analyst in Social Policy
Analyst in Social Policy
Acknowledgments
Amber Wilhelm and Calvin DeSouza produced this report’s data visualizations.
Amber Wilhelm and Calvin DeSouza produced this report’s data visualizations.
Congressional Research Service
29
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 not be relied upon for purposes other under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should not 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
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