The Temporary Assistance for
October 4November 29, 2023 , 2023
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 of Columbia, territories (Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin TANF provides fixed funding for the 50 states, the District of Columbia, territories (Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin
Islands), and American Indian tribes. The basic block grant totals $16.5 billion per year. States are also required to contribute, Islands), and American Indian tribes. The basic block grant totals $16.5 billion per year. States are also required to contribute,
from their own funds, under a maintenance-of-effort (MOE) requirement. Both the basic block grant and the required MOE from their own funds, under a maintenance-of-effort (MOE) requirement. Both the basic block grant and the required MOE
spending are based on expenditures in pre-TANF programs in the early- to mid-1990s. spending are based on expenditures in pre-TANF programs in the early- to mid-1990s.
The basic block grant and required spending under the MOE are not adjusted for changes in circumstances (e.g., inflation,
The basic block grant and required spending under the MOE are not adjusted for changes in circumstances (e.g., inflation,
population) over time. Adjusted for inflation, in FY2022, the TANF basic block grant was 45% below what its value was in population) over time. Adjusted for inflation, in FY2022, the TANF basic block grant was 45% below what its value was in
FY1997. The MOE requirements have also not been adjusted for inflation. FY1997. The MOE requirements have also not been adjusted for inflation.
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 FY2021, states used a total of $30.3 billion in federal MOE funds are used for a wide variety of benefits and activities. In FY2021, states used a total of $30.3 billion in federal
TANF and state MOE dollars. Of that FY2021 total, expenditures on basic assistance were $6.9 billion—22.6% of total TANF and state MOE dollars. Of that FY2021 total, expenditures on basic assistance were $6.9 billion—22.6% of total
federal TANF and MOE dollars. Basic assistance is often—but not exclusively—paid as cash on a monthly basis. The federal TANF and MOE dollars. Basic assistance is often—but not exclusively—paid as cash on a monthly basis. The
remainder of TANF and MOE funds were spent on a wide range of benefits, services, and activities: child care, employment remainder of TANF and MOE funds were spent on a wide range of benefits, services, and activities: 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. Head Start programs, and services for children who have been, or are at risk of being, abused and neglected.
The TANF Assistance Caseload
A total of 1.0 million families, composed of 2.8 million recipients, received TANF- or MOE-funded assistance in September A total of 1.0 million families, composed of 2.8 million recipients, received TANF- or MOE-funded assistance in September
2022. The bulk of the recipients were children—2.0 million in that month. 2022. The bulk of the recipients were children—2.0 million in that month.
Assistance Benefits
TANF assistance benefit amounts are set by states. In July 2020, the maximum monthly benefit for a family of two (single TANF assistance benefit amounts are set by states. In July 2020, the maximum monthly benefit for a family of two (single
parent and one child) ranged from $862 in New Hampshire to $146 in Mississippi. Only New Hampshire (at 60% of the parent and one child) ranged from $862 in New Hampshire to $146 in Mississippi. Only New Hampshire (at 60% of the
federal poverty level) had a maximum TANF assistance amount for this sized family in excess of 50% of poverty-level federal poverty level) had a maximum TANF assistance amount for this sized family in excess of 50% of poverty-level
income. income.
Work Requirements
TANF’s main federal work requirement is a performance measure that applies to the states. States determine the work rules 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% of two-parent families 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.” Therefore, the effective 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 FY2021, states achieved, on average, an standards states face are often less than the 50% or 90% targets, and vary by state. In FY2021, states achieved, on average, an
all-family participation rate of 33.6% and a two-parent rate of 37.9%. all-family participation rate of 33.6% and a two-parent rate of 37.9%.
In FY2021, Florida, Maryland, and Oregon did not meet their all-family participation standard. California, Florida, Guam,
In FY2021, Florida, Maryland, and Oregon did not meet their all-family participation standard. California, Florida, Guam,
Hawaii, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Wyoming did not meet their two-parent Hawaii, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Wyoming did not meet their two-parent
participation standard. Jurisdictions that did not meet their standards are at risk of being penalized through a reduction in their participation standard. Jurisdictions that did not meet their standards are at risk of being penalized through a reduction in their
block grants, though they may either enter into a corrective compliance plan or claim good cause to avoid the penalty. block grants, though they may either enter into a corrective compliance plan or claim good cause to avoid the penalty.
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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? .......................................................................................... 3
How much of the TANF grant has gone unspent? .................................................................... 4
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? ........... 5
How does the current assistance caseload level compare with historical levels? ..................... 5
TANF Cash Benefits: How Much Does a Family Receive in TANF Cash Per Month? .................. 7
TANF Work Participation Standards ............................................................................................... 8
What is the TANF work participation standard states must meet? ............................................ 8
What work participation rates have the states achieved? .......................................................... 9
Figures
Figure 1. Uses of Federal TANF and MOE Funds by Spending Category, FY2021 ....................... 4
Figure 2. Number of Families Receiving Assistance, July 1959 to September 2022 ...................... 6
Figure 3. TANF Cash Assistance Maximum Monthly Benefit Amounts for a Single-
Parent Family with One Child, 50 States and the District of Columbia, July 2020 ..................... 8
Figure 4. National Average TANF Work Participation Rate for All Families,
FY2002-FY2021 ........................................................................................................................ 10
Tables
Table 1. TANF Basic Block Grant Funding in Nominal and Constant Dollars ............................... 2
Table 2. Families and Recipients of TANF and MOE-funded Assistance, September 2022 ........... 5
Table A-1. Trends in the Cash Assistance Caseload: 1961-2021 .................................................... 11
Table B-1. Use of FY2021 TANF and MOE Funds by Category .................................................. 14
Table B-2. Uses of FY2021 TANF and MOE Funds by Category as a Percentage of Total
Federal TANF and State MOE Spending ................................................................................... 17
Table B-3. Unspent TANF Funds at the End of FY2021 ............................................................... 20
Table B-4. Number of Families, Recipients, Children, and Adults Receiving TANF
Assistance by Jurisdiction, September 2022 .............................................................................. 21
Table B-5. Number of Needy Families with Children Receiving Assistance
by Jurisdiction, September of Selected Years ............................................................................. 23
Table B-6. TANF Cash Assistance Maximum Monthly Benefit Amounts for a Single-
Parent Family with One Child, By Jurisdiction, July 2020 ........................................................ 25
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Table B-7. TANF Work Participation Standard and Rate, By Jurisdiction for All Families:
FY2021 ....................................................................................................................................... 27
Table B-8. TANF Work Participation Standard and Rate, By Jurisdiction, for Two-Parent
Families: FY2021 ....................................................................................................................... 29
Appendixes
Appendix A. Supplementary Tables ............................................................................................... 11
Appendix B. State Tables .............................................................................................................. 14
Contacts
Author Information ........................................................................................................................ 30
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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 access to information and
datadata. Appendix A provides additional data on families receiving TANF provides additional data on families receiving TANF
assistance assistance
over timeover time. Appendix B presents a series of tables with state-level data on TANF presents a series of tables with state-level data on TANF
expenditures and families receiving assistance. expenditures and families receiving assistance.
This report does not provide information on TANF program rules (for a discussion of TANF
This report does not provide information on TANF program rules (for a discussion of TANF
rules, see CRS Report RL32748, rules, see CRS Report RL32748,
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block
Grant: A Primer on TANF Financing and Federal Requirements, by Gene Falk). , by Gene Falk).
Funding and Expenditures
What is TANF’s funding status?
The The
Further Continuing AppropriationsContinuing Appropriations
Act, 2024 and Other Extensions Act and Other Extensions Act
, 2024 (P.L. 118- (P.L. 118-
1522) extended ) extended
TANF funding through TANF funding through
November 17, 2023February 2, 2024. .
How are state TANF programs funded?
TANF programs are funded through a combination of federal and state funds. TANF has two TANF programs are funded through a combination of federal and state funds. TANF has two
federal grants to states. The bulk of the TANF funding is in a basic block grant to the states, 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 Virgin totaling $16.5 billion for the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin
Islands, and American Indian tribes.1 There is also a contingency fund available that provides Islands, and American Indian tribes.1 There is also a contingency fund available that provides
extra federal funds to states that meet certain conditions. 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 a minimum of at least 80% of what they spent in FY1994 on TANF’s States are required to spend a minimum of at least 80% of what they spent in FY1994 on TANF’s
predecessor programs. The MOE spending requirement is reduced in states that met their work predecessor programs. The MOE spending requirement is reduced in states that met their work
participation standards to 75% of what a state spent in FY1994. participation standards to 75% of what a state spent in FY1994.
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.
1 American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands do not operate TANF programs. The
1 American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands do not operate TANF programs. The
former is eligible but does not operate programs; the latter is ineligible for TANF funds. former is eligible but does not operate programs; the latter is ineligible for TANF funds.
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Table 1 shows the state family assistance grant, in both nominal (actual) and constant 1997 shows the state family assistance grant, in both nominal (actual) and constant 1997
(inflation-adjusted) dollars for each year, FY1997 through FY2022. In inflation-adjusted terms, (inflation-adjusted) dollars for each year, FY1997 through FY2022. In inflation-adjusted terms,
the FY2022 block grant was 45% below its value in FY1997. the FY2022 block grant was 45% below its value in FY1997.
Table 1. TANF Basic Block Grant Funding in Nominal and Constant Dollars
(dollars in billions)
(dollars in billions)
State Family
Cumulative
State Family
Assistance
Percentage Change
Assistance Grant: 50
Grant
Since FY1997,
States, DC, Tribes,
Constant
Constant 1997
Fiscal Year
and Territories
1997 Dollars
Dollars
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
2021
2021
16.512
16.512
9.893
9.893
-40.3
-40.3
2022
2022
16.512
16.512
9.168
9.168
-44.7
-44.7
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), Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Family Assistance; and the U.S. Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Family Assistance; and the U.S.
Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Notes: Constant Constant
dollarsdol ars were computed using the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers (CPI-U). were computed using the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers (CPI-U).
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
How have states used TANF funds?
In FY2021, states used a total of $30.3 billion in combined federal TANF and state MOE dollars In FY2021, states used a total of $30.3 billion in combined federal TANF and state MOE dollars
(this total includes dollars transferred to other block grant program, but excludes expenditures in (this total includes dollars transferred to other block grant program, but excludes expenditures in
tribal TANF programs or those operated in the territories). Basic assistance—ongoing benefits to tribal TANF programs or those operated in the territories). Basic assistance—ongoing benefits to
families to meet basic needs—represented 22.6% ($6.9 billion) of total FY2021 TANF and MOE families to meet basic needs—represented 22.6% ($6.9 billion) of total FY2021 TANF and MOE
dollars. dollars.
TANF is a major contributor of child care funding. In FY2021, $4.9 billion (16.2% of all TANF
TANF is a major contributor of child care funding. In FY2021, $4.9 billion (16.2% of all TANF
and MOE funds) were either expended on child care directly within TANF or transferred to the and MOE funds) were either expended on child care directly within TANF or transferred to the
child care block grant (the Child Care and Development Fund, or CCDF). TANF and MOE funds child care block grant (the Child Care and Development Fund, or CCDF). TANF and MOE funds
also help fund state pre-kindergarten (pre-K) programs, with FY2021 expenditures for pre-K also help fund state pre-kindergarten (pre-K) programs, with FY2021 expenditures for pre-K
programs totaling $2.9 billion. programs totaling $2.9 billion.
TANF is also a major contributor to the child welfare system, which provides foster care,
TANF is also a major contributor to the child welfare system, which provides foster care,
adoption assistance, and services to families with children who have experienced, or are at risk of adoption assistance, and services to families with children who have experienced, or are at risk of
experiencing, child abuse or neglect, spending about $2.7 billion on such activities. experiencing, child abuse or neglect, spending about $2.7 billion on such activities.
TANF also helps low-wage parents by helping to finance state refundable tax credits, such as
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) or state refundable child credits. TANF and state add-ons to the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or state refundable child credits. TANF and
MOE expenditures on refundable tax credits in FY2021 totaled $2.6 billion, or 8.5% of total MOE expenditures on refundable tax credits in FY2021 totaled $2.6 billion, or 8.5% of total
TANF and MOE spending. TANF and MOE spending.
TANF work-related activities (including education and training) were the fifth-largest TANF and
TANF work-related activities (including education and training) were the fifth-largest TANF and
MOE spending category at $2.3 billion, or 7.6% of total TANF and MOE funds. TANF and MOE MOE spending category at $2.3 billion, or 7.6% of total TANF and MOE funds. TANF and MOE
funds are also used for short-term and emergency benefits and a wide range of other social funds are also used for short-term and emergency benefits and a wide range of other social
services. services.
Figure 1 shows the uses of federal TANF grants to states and state MOE funds in FY2021. Note shows the uses of federal TANF grants to states and state MOE funds in FY2021. Note
that the data in this figure exclude spending from the Pandemic Emergency Fund, a temporary $1 that the data in this figure exclude spending from the Pandemic Emergency Fund, a temporary $1
billion fund enacted in the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA, P.L. 117-2) to help meet billion fund enacted in the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA, P.L. 117-2) to help meet
needs arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. States, tribes, and territories could use Pandemic needs arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. States, tribes, and territories could use Pandemic
Emergency Fund dollars only on “non-recurring short-term benefits.” Emergency Fund dollars only on “non-recurring short-term benefits.”
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Figure 1. Uses of Federal TANF and MOE Funds by Spending Category, FY2021
(dollars in billions)
(dollars in billions)
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), Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Family Assistance. Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Family Assistance.
Notes: Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in tribal TANF programs. Excludes spending from the Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in tribal TANF programs. Excludes spending from the
Pandemic Emergency Assistance fund, which is reported separately. Pandemic Emergency Assistance fund, which is reported separately.
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 FY2021 (September 30, 2021), a total of $8.0 billion of federal TANF funding
At the end of FY2021 (September 30, 2021), a total of $8.0 billion of federal TANF funding
remained neither transferred nor spent. However, some of these unspent funds represent monies remained neither transferred nor spent. However, some of these unspent funds represent monies
that states had already committed to spend later. Of this amount, states had made such that states had already committed to spend later. Of this amount, states had made such
commitments to spend—that is, had obligated—a total of approximately $1.9 billion. At the end commitments to spend—that is, had obligated—a total of approximately $1.9 billion. At the end
of FY2021, states had approximately $6.2 billion of “unobligated balances.” These funds are of FY2021, states had approximately $6.2 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.
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
“Assistance” is defined as benefits provided to families to meet ongoing, basic needs.2 It is most
“Assistance” is defined as benefits provided to families to meet ongoing, basic needs.2 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 approximately 1.0 million families, provides assistance caseload information. A total of approximately 1.0 million families,
composed of 2.8 million recipients, received TANF- or MOE-funded assistance in September composed of 2.8 million recipients, received TANF- or MOE-funded assistance in September
2022. The bulk of the recipients were children—2.0 million in that month. For state-by-state 2022. The bulk of the recipients were children—2.0 million in that month. For state-by-state
assistance caseloads, seeassistance caseloads, see
Table B-4.
Table 2. Families and Recipients of TANF and MOE-funded Assistance,
September 2022
Total Families
Total Families
1,019,898
1,019,898
Total Recipients
Total Recipients
2,820,773
2,820,773
Total Child Recipients
Total Child Recipients
2,015,874
2,015,874
Total Adult Recipients
Total Adult Recipients
804,899
804,899
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). Data as of December 27, 2022, and subject to revision. Services (HHS). Data as of December 27, 2022, and subject to revision.
How does the current assistance caseload level compare with
historical levels?
Figure 2 provides a long-term historical perspective on the number of families receiving provides a long-term historical perspective on the number of families receiving
assistance from TANF or its predecessor program, from July 1959 to September 2022. The assistance from TANF or its predecessor program, from July 1959 to September 2022. The
shaded areas of the figure represent months when the national economy was in recession. Though shaded areas of the figure represent months when the national economy was in recession. Though
the health of the national economy has affected the trend in the cash assistance caseload, the long-the health of the national economy has affected the trend in the cash assistance caseload, the long-
term trend in receipt of cash assistance does not follow a classic countercyclical pattern. Such a term trend in receipt of cash assistance does not follow a classic countercyclical pattern. Such a
pattern would have the caseload rise during economic slumps, and then 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
2 The definition of TANF assistance is not in statute. However, because the statutory language has most TANF
2 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. Section 260.31. regulations define assistance at 45 C.F.R. Section 260.31.
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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 COVID-19 pandemic, there was a
During 2020, a year when the economy was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a
brief uptick in the number of families receiving assistance. That response to the pandemic was brief uptick in the number of families receiving assistance. That response to the pandemic was
short-lived.3 The number of families receiving assistance declined until late 2021, but has recently short-lived.3 The number of families receiving assistance declined until late 2021, but has recently
been rising. been rising.
The number of families receiving assistance increased by 113,000 nationwide from September
The number of families receiving assistance increased by 113,000 nationwide from September
2021 to September 2022. From September 2021 to September 2022, 24 jurisdictions had 2021 to September 2022. From September 2021 to September 2022, 24 jurisdictions had
increases in the number of families receiving assistance, while 30 jurisdictions had decreases. The increases in the number of families receiving assistance, while 30 jurisdictions had decreases. The
increase in families receiving assistance is concentrated in a small number of larger-population increase in families receiving assistance is concentrated in a small number of larger-population
states (California, Massachusetts, and New York)states (California, Massachusetts, and New York)
. Table B-5 shows recent trends in the number shows recent trends in the number
of cash assistance families by state. of cash assistance families by state.
Figure 2. Number of Families Receiving Assistance, July 1959 to September 2022
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). Data as of December 27, 2022, and subject to revision. Services (HHS). Data as of December 27, 2022, and subject to revision.
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. See CRS Report R46687, might have lessened the need for need-tested cash from TANF. See CRS Report R46687,
Unemployment Insurance
(UI) Benefits: Permanent-Law Programs and the COVID-19 Pandemic Response. For estimates of the impact of the . For estimates of the impact of the
poverty interventions in response to the economic downturn associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, see Laura poverty interventions in response to the economic downturn associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, see Laura
Wheaton, Linda Giannarelli, and Ilham Dehry, Wheaton, Linda 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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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.
Figure 3 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
one child (family of two) in July 2020.4 For a family of two, the maximum TANF benefit paid in one child (family of two) in July 2020.4 For a family of two, the maximum TANF benefit paid in
July 2020 varied from $146 per month in Mississippi to $862 per month in New Hampshire. The July 2020 varied from $146 per month in Mississippi to $862 per month in New Hampshire. The
map shows a regional pattern to the maximum monthly benefit paid, with lower benefit amounts map shows a regional pattern to the maximum monthly benefit paid, with lower benefit amounts
in general in the South compared to other regions. Only New Hampshire (at 60% of the federal in general in the South compared to 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.
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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Figure 3. TANF Cash Assistance Maximum Monthly Benefit Amounts for a Single-
Parent Family with One Child, 50 States and the District of Columbia, July 2020
Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the Welfare Rules Database, funded by the Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the Welfare Rules Database, funded by the
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and maintained by the Urban Institute. The Welfare Rules Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and maintained by the Urban Institute. The Welfare Rules
Database has information for the 50 states and District of Columbia. It does not have information on TANF 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 U.S. Virgin Islands or tribal TANF programs. assistance programs in Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands or tribal TANF programs.
Table B-6 shows these benefit amounts by state in dollars and as a percentage of the federal shows these benefit amounts by state in dollars and as a percentage of the federal
poverty level (FPL). poverty level (FPL).
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.
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 statutory work participation standards are reduced by a “caseload reduction credit.” The
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 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.
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 4 shows the national average all-families work participation rate for FY2002 through shows the national average all-families work participation rate for FY2002 through
FY2021. For the period FY2002 through FY2011, states achieved an average all-families work FY2021. For the period FY2002 through FY2011, states achieved an average all-families work
participation rate hovering around 30%. Then, work participation rate increased. In FY2016, it participation rate hovering around 30%. Then, work participation rate increased. In FY2016, it
exceeded 50% for the first time since TANF was established. However, it is important to note that exceeded 50% for the first time since TANF was established. However, it is important to note that
the increase in the work participation rate did not come from an increase in the number of the increase in the work participation rate did not come from an increase in the number of
recipients in regular TANF assistance programs who are either working or in job preparation recipients in regular TANF assistance programs who are either working or in job preparation
activities. This increase stemmed mostly from states creating new “earnings supplement” activities. This increase stemmed 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. for work.
The national average TANF work participation rate for all families declined in FY2018 through
The national average TANF work participation rate for all families declined in FY2018 through
FY2021. In FY2020 and FY2021, years affected by COVID-19 and its economic fallout, the FY2021. In FY2020 and FY2021, years affected by COVID-19 and its economic fallout, the
national average all-families rate was 33.6%. In FY2020, all states met their all-families TANF national average all-families rate was 33.6%. In FY2020, all states met their all-families TANF
work participation standards despite this decline. However, in FY2021, Florida, Maryland, and work participation standards despite this decline. However, in FY2021, Florida, Maryland, and
Oregon did not meet their “all families” work participation standard. Oregon did not meet their “all families” work participation standard.
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Figure 4. National Average TANF Work Participation Rate for All Families,
FY2002-FY2021
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 FY2021, ten jurisdictions (California, Florida, Guam, Hawaii, Nevada, New Mexico, North
In FY2021, ten jurisdictions (California, Florida, Guam, Hawaii, Nevada, New Mexico, North
Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Wyoming) did not meet the separate, higher two-parent Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Wyoming) did not meet the separate, higher two-parent
standardstandard
.. Table B-7 provides information for each jurisdiction on the TANF work standard, provides information for each jurisdiction on the TANF work standard,
caseload reduction credit, and work participation rate for all families for FY2021caseload reduction credit, and work participation rate for all families for FY2021
. Table B-8
provides that information for two-parent families. The table shows that 26 jurisdictions did not provides that information for two-parent families. The table shows that 26 jurisdictions did not
have two-parent families receiving assistance funded by TANF or MOE funds (denoted with an have two-parent families receiving assistance funded by TANF or MOE funds (denoted with an
“NA” in the table). “NA” in the table).
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
Trump Administration, said that it would exercise its authority to provide states with relief from Trump Administration, said that it would exercise its authority to provide states with relief from
the penalty for not meeting participation standards “to the maximum extent possible.”6 HHS has the penalty for not meeting participation standards “to the maximum extent possible.”6 HHS has
not revised this statement under the Biden Administration. not revised this statement under the Biden Administration.
6 U.S. Department of Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Family Assistance,
6 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: 1961-2021
TANF Child Recipients
As a
As a
Percentage Percentage
Calendar
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
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
TANF Child Recipients
As a
As a
Percentage Percentage
Calendar
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
2020
2020
1.052
1.052
2.757
2.757
0.728
0.728
2.029
2.029
2.8
2.8
17.2
17.2
2021
2021
0.931
0.931
2.450
2.450
0.661
0.661
1.788
1.788
2.5
2.5
16.0
16.0
Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS) 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 and child recipients were not
collectedcol ected. For those years, TANF children as a percentage of all children and . For those years, TANF children as a percentage of all children and
percentage of all poor children were estimated by HHS and published in percentage of all poor children were estimated by HHS and published in
Welfare Indicators and Risk Factors, Annual
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Report to Congress, Table TANF 2, p. A-7. See https://aspe.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/private/pdf/116161/, Table TANF 2, p. A-7. See 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 FINAL%20Fourteenth%20Report%20-%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 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 estimate poverty were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. underestimated, as responses to the survey used to 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 Paper no. 2020-10, September 15, 2020. , U.S. Census Bureau, SEHSD Working Paper no. 2020-10, September 15, 2020.
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
13
13
Appendix B. State Tables
Table B-1. Use of FY2021 TANF and MOE Funds by Category
(dollars in millions)
(dollars in millions)
Work
Emergency
Pre-K
Education
and Short-
Basic
Child
Head-
Child
Refundable
and
Term
State
Assistance
Care
Start
Welfare
Tax Credits
Training
Administration
Benefits
Other
Totals
Alabama
Alabama
$14.408
$14.408
$22.106
$22.106
$31.327
$31.327
$44.142
$44.142
$0.000
$0.000
$6.520
$6.520
$10.955
$10.955
$40.860
$40.860
$34.685
$34.685
$205.003
$205.003
Alaska
Alaska
38.742
38.742
12.147
12.147
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
10.890
10.890
6.524
6.524
0.318
0.318
11.711
11.711
80.331
80.331
Arizona
Arizona
38.245
38.245
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
227.877
227.877
0.000
0.000
0.545
0.545
16.444
16.444
7.033
7.033
47.904
47.904
338.049
338.049
Arkansas
Arkansas
3.554
3.554
5.250
5.250
29.998
29.998
3.711
3.711
0.000
0.000
11.028
11.028
13.107
13.107
4.377
4.377
17.122
17.122
88.145
88.145
California
California
2,279.025
2,279.025
989.279
989.279
0.148
0.148
0.002
0.002
0.000
0.000
894.773
894.773
604.394
604.394
386.003
386.003
948.366
948.366
6,101.990
6,101.990
Colorado
Colorado
57.199
57.199
13.946
13.946
85.909
85.909
58.450
58.450
79.530
79.530
6.050
6.050
57.673
57.673
3.832
3.832
61.740
61.740
424.328
424.328
Connecticut
Connecticut
26.847
26.847
54.791
54.791
68.593
68.593
72.973
72.973
52.700
52.700
10.179
10.179
37.444
37.444
14.534
14.534
137.849
137.849
475.909
475.909
Delaware
Delaware
5.636
5.636
30.228
30.228
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
13.126
13.126
3.081
3.081
1.314
1.314
44.634
44.634
98.018
98.018
District of Columbia
District of Columbia
200.126
200.126
53.056
53.056
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
21.476
21.476
32.943
32.943
13.756
13.756
96.951
96.951
10.951
10.951
429.260
429.260
Florida
Florida
168.261
168.261
306.439
306.439
0.000
0.000
258.744
258.744
0.000
0.000
42.024
42.024
52.455
52.455
2.038
2.038
65.812
65.812
895.773
895.773
Georgia
Georgia
94.950
94.950
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
265.337
265.337
0.000
0.000
6.618
6.618
18.223
18.223
4.678
4.678
61.420
61.420
451.225
451.225
Hawaii
Hawaii
49.215
49.215
7.406
7.406
0.000
0.000
7.032
7.032
0.000
0.000
36.510
36.510
19.975
19.975
11.720
11.720
76.431
76.431
208.289
208.289
Idaho
Idaho
6.910
6.910
8.980
8.980
1.477
1.477
1.727
1.727
0.000
0.000
2.506
2.506
5.069
5.069
13.834
13.834
0.334
0.334
40.838
40.838
IllinoisIl inois
45.137
45.137
535.329
535.329
113.153
113.153
229.756
229.756
103.349
103.349
17.842
17.842
0.000
0.000
0.919
0.919
104.027
104.027
1,149.513
1,149.513
Indiana
Indiana
19.941
19.941
91.865
91.865
0.000
0.000
2.161
2.161
19.082
19.082
1.494
1.494
22.685
22.685
0.346
0.346
130.046
130.046
287.620
287.620
Iowa
Iowa
27.115
27.115
45.422
45.422
0.000
0.000
54.292
54.292
22.486
22.486
5.736
5.736
6.999
6.999
0.183
0.183
20.420
20.420
182.652
182.652
Kansas
Kansas
9.941
9.941
6.673
6.673
15.997
15.997
35.340
35.340
38.294
38.294
0.813
0.813
10.360
10.360
0.000
0.000
44.118
44.118
161.535
161.535
CRS-14
CRS-14
Work
Emergency
Pre-K
Education
and Short-
Basic
Child
Head-
Child
Refundable
and
Term
State
Assistance
Care
Start
Welfare
Tax Credits
Training
Administration
Benefits
Other
Totals
Kentucky
Kentucky
164.292
164.292
19.299
19.299
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
21.021
21.021
12.522
12.522
0.000
0.000
3.383
3.383
220.516
220.516
Louisiana
Louisiana
12.362
12.362
0.000
0.000
56.043
56.043
33.290
33.290
17.421
17.421
47.759
47.759
17.802
17.802
8.408
8.408
30.192
30.192
223.276
223.276
Maine
Maine
39.638
39.638
21.470
21.470
0.533
0.533
10.880
10.880
15.821
15.821
14.098
14.098
3.940
3.940
6.064
6.064
26.272
26.272
138.717
138.717
Maryland
Maryland
170.394
170.394
5.442
5.442
58.021
58.021
30.070
30.070
202.029
202.029
27.898
27.898
23.550
23.550
37.056
37.056
48.229
48.229
602.689
602.689
Massachusetts
Massachusetts
213.480
213.480
334.376
334.376
0.000
0.000
11.374
11.374
174.413
174.413
166.427
166.427
32.466
32.466
91.807
91.807
78.756
78.756
1,103.098
1,103.098
Michigan
Michigan
103.219
103.219
26.423
26.423
157.550
157.550
73.918
73.918
30.914
30.914
3.314
3.314
55.456
55.456
21.443
21.443
772.126
772.126
1,244.361
1,244.361
Minnesota
Minnesota
123.948
123.948
124.236
124.236
5.700
5.700
0.000
0.000
109.977
109.977
58.388
58.388
45.379
45.379
14.045
14.045
25.247
25.247
506.919
506.919
Mississippi
Mississippi
3.531
3.531
1.715
1.715
0.000
0.000
15.210
15.210
0.000
0.000
19.532
19.532
6.779
6.779
0.000
0.000
10.569
10.569
57.336
57.336
Missouri
Missouri
20.803
20.803
23.306
23.306
0.000
0.000
120.352
120.352
0.000
0.000
70.706
70.706
6.621
6.621
83.549
83.549
47.934
47.934
373.271
373.271
Montana
Montana
12.656
12.656
6.774
6.774
0.000
0.000
1.813
1.813
0.000
0.000
2.601
2.601
5.554
5.554
1.034
1.034
7.809
7.809
38.241
38.241
Nebraska
Nebraska
20.948
20.948
7.157
7.157
0.000
0.000
6.351
6.351
29.122
29.122
9.795
9.795
3.100
3.100
0.167
0.167
2.660
2.660
79.301
79.301
Nevada
Nevada
36.031
36.031
10.087
10.087
0.000
0.000
30.990
30.990
0.000
0.000
0.523
0.523
8.544
8.544
7.920
7.920
21.327
21.327
115.422
115.422
New Hampshire
New Hampshire
29.215
29.215
4.582
4.582
0.000
0.000
3.257
3.257
0.000
0.000
5.730
5.730
9.623
9.623
1.796
1.796
14.827
14.827
69.030
69.030
New Jersey
New Jersey
81.789
81.789
148.714
148.714
608.583
608.583
0.000
0.000
396.587
396.587
60.559
60.559
53.955
53.955
15.939
15.939
69.315
69.315
1,435.440
1,435.440
New Mexico
New Mexico
50.212
50.212
42.868
42.868
55.013
55.013
0.724
0.724
135.270
135.270
13.938
13.938
5.926
5.926
8.957
8.957
16.446
16.446
329.354
329.354
New York
New York
1,633.424
1,633.424
375.680
375.680
818.713
818.713
361.021
361.021
1,026.718
1,026.718
140.863
140.863
438.496
438.496
194.668
194.668
314.213
314.213
5,303.796
5,303.796
North Carolina
North Carolina
30.908
30.908
217.901
217.901
76.713
76.713
150.227
150.227
0.000
0.000
4.610
4.610
45.942
45.942
3.841
3.841
47.833
47.833
577.974
577.974
North Dakota
North Dakota
4.553
4.553
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
15.452
15.452
0.000
0.000
3.575
3.575
5.279
5.279
0.022
0.022
1.819
1.819
30.699
30.699
Ohio
Ohio
219.054
219.054
420.171
420.171
0.574
0.574
18.438
18.438
0.000
0.000
84.446
84.446
102.226
102.226
67.749
67.749
240.531
240.531
1,153.188
1,153.188
Oklahoma
Oklahoma
21.070
21.070
43.340
43.340
0.000
0.000
8.787
8.787
0.000
0.000
14.979
14.979
8.065
8.065
0.514
0.514
28.941
28.941
125.697
125.697
Oregon
Oregon
67.058
67.058
20.439
20.439
14.129
14.129
3.914
3.914
3.381
3.381
18.780
18.780
12.086
12.086
10.673
10.673
22.573
22.573
173.033
173.033
CRS-15
CRS-15
Work
Emergency
Pre-K
Education
and Short-
Basic
Child
Head-
Child
Refundable
and
Term
State
Assistance
Care
Start
Welfare
Tax Credits
Training
Administration
Benefits
Other
Totals
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
105.679
105.679
373.782
373.782
221.517
221.517
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
101.555
101.555
55.402
55.402
5.484
5.484
99.923
99.923
963.342
963.342
Rhode Island
Rhode Island
15.203
15.203
26.400
26.400
1.190
1.190
19.668
19.668
16.084
16.084
9.340
9.340
6.761
6.761
9.697
9.697
27.779
27.779
132.123
132.123
South Carolina
South Carolina
29.027
29.027
4.085
4.085
25.976
25.976
3.902
3.902
0.000
0.000
7.102
7.102
18.605
18.605
0.000
0.000
67.642
67.642
156.339
156.339
South Dakota
South Dakota
11.854
11.854
0.803
0.803
0.000
0.000
4.067
4.067
0.000
0.000
3.208
3.208
2.003
2.003
4.189
4.189
3.107
3.107
29.231
29.231
Tennessee
Tennessee
110.039
110.039
7.622
7.622
83.443
83.443
14.690
14.690
0.049
0.049
19.987
19.987
30.478
30.478
0.000
0.000
4.243
4.243
270.549
270.549
Texas
Texas
35.040
35.040
0.000
0.000
325.879
325.879
383.887
383.887
0.000
0.000
78.075
78.075
82.961
82.961
1.481
1.481
51.322
51.322
958.645
958.645
Utah
Utah
16.062
16.062
22.200
22.200
1.878
1.878
0.960
0.960
0.000
0.000
16.386
16.386
7.604
7.604
1.543
1.543
16.794
16.794
83.428
83.428
Vermont
Vermont
11.321
11.321
30.079
30.079
0.000
0.000
7.263
7.263
17.684
17.684
0.312
0.312
5.107
5.107
0.475
0.475
13.068
13.068
85.308
85.308
Virginia
Virginia
78.325
78.325
23.348
23.348
5.981
5.981
57.771
57.771
0.186
0.186
34.706
34.706
48.320
48.320
6.875
6.875
59.357
59.357
314.868
314.868
Washington
Washington
157.890
157.890
173.437
173.437
63.678
63.678
35.422
35.422
0.000
0.000
119.464
119.464
45.277
45.277
46.811
46.811
438.749
438.749
1,080.728
1,080.728
West Virginia
West Virginia
46.486
46.486
21.096
21.096
0.000
0.000
26.214
26.214
0.000
0.000
0.315
0.315
13.841
13.841
1.552
1.552
26.007
26.007
135.511
135.511
Wisconsin
Wisconsin
82.274
82.274
187.509
187.509
0.000
0.000
9.258
9.258
69.700
69.700
30.876
30.876
28.134
28.134
26.105
26.105
128.300
128.300
562.157
562.157
Wyoming
Wyoming
13.736
13.736
1.554
1.554
1.606
1.606
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
4.275
4.275
2.635
2.635
3.539
3.539
2.548
2.548
29.892
29.892
Totals
Totals
6,856.770
6,856.770
4,908.814
4,908.814
2,929.319
2,929.319
2,720.713
2,720.713
2,582.272
2,582.272
2,314.738
2,314.738
2,149.582
2,149.582
1,272.343
1,272.343
4,587.410
4,587.410
30,321.961
30,321.961
Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families
(ACF), Office of Family Assistance. (ACF), Office of Family Assistance.
Notes: Detail may not add to total because of rounding. Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in tribal TANF programs. Also excludes spending from the Detail may not add to total because of rounding. Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in tribal TANF programs. Also excludes spending from the
Pandemic Emergency Assistance Fund. Pandemic Emergency Assistance Fund.
CRS-16
CRS-16
Table B-2. Uses of FY2021 TANF and MOE Funds by Category as a Percentage of Total Federal TANF and
State MOE Spending
Work
Emergency
Refund-
Education
and Short-
Basic
Pre-K
Child
able Tax
and
Term
State
Assistance
Child Care
Head Start
Welfare
Credits
Training
Administration
Benefits
Other
Totals
Alabama
Alabama
7.0%
7.0%
10.8%
10.8%
15.3%
15.3%
21.5%
21.5%
0.0%
0.0%
3.2%
3.2%
5.3%
5.3%
19.9%
19.9%
16.9%
16.9%
100.0%
100.0%
Alaska
Alaska
48.2
48.2
15.1
15.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
13.6
13.6
8.1
8.1
0.4
0.4
14.6
14.6
100.0
100.0
Arizona
Arizona
11.3
11.3
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
67.4
67.4
0.0
0.0
0.2
0.2
4.9
4.9
2.1
2.1
14.2
14.2
100.0
100.0
Arkansas
Arkansas
4.0
4.0
6.0
6.0
34.0
34.0
4.2
4.2
0.0
0.0
12.5
12.5
14.9
14.9
5.0
5.0
19.4
19.4
100.0
100.0
California
California
37.3
37.3
16.2
16.2
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
14.7
14.7
9.9
9.9
6.3
6.3
15.5
15.5
100.0
100.0
Colorado
Colorado
13.5
13.5
3.3
3.3
20.2
20.2
13.8
13.8
18.7
18.7
1.4
1.4
13.6
13.6
0.9
0.9
14.5
14.5
100.0
100.0
Connecticut
Connecticut
5.6
5.6
11.5
11.5
14.4
14.4
15.3
15.3
11.1
11.1
2.1
2.1
7.9
7.9
3.1
3.1
29.0
29.0
100.0
100.0
Delaware
Delaware
5.7
5.7
30.8
30.8
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
13.4
13.4
3.1
3.1
1.3
1.3
45.5
45.5
100.0
100.0
District of Columbia
District of Columbia
46.6
46.6
12.4
12.4
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
5.0
5.0
7.7
7.7
3.2
3.2
22.6
22.6
2.6
2.6
100.0
100.0
Florida
Florida
18.8
18.8
34.2
34.2
0.0
0.0
28.9
28.9
0.0
0.0
4.7
4.7
5.9
5.9
0.2
0.2
7.3
7.3
100.0
100.0
Georgia
Georgia
21.0
21.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
58.8
58.8
0.0
0.0
1.5
1.5
4.0
4.0
1.0
1.0
13.6
13.6
100.0
100.0
Hawaii
Hawaii
23.6
23.6
3.6
3.6
0.0
0.0
3.4
3.4
0.0
0.0
17.5
17.5
9.6
9.6
5.6
5.6
36.7
36.7
100.0
100.0
Idaho
Idaho
16.9
16.9
22.0
22.0
3.6
3.6
4.2
4.2
0.0
0.0
6.1
6.1
12.4
12.4
33.9
33.9
0.8
0.8
100.0
100.0
IllinoisIl inois
3.9
3.9
46.6
46.6
9.8
9.8
20.0
20.0
9.0
9.0
1.6
1.6
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.1
9.0
9.0
100.0
100.0
Indiana
Indiana
6.9
6.9
31.9
31.9
0.0
0.0
0.8
0.8
6.6
6.6
0.5
0.5
7.9
7.9
0.1
0.1
45.2
45.2
100.0
100.0
Iowa
Iowa
14.8
14.8
24.9
24.9
0.0
0.0
29.7
29.7
12.3
12.3
3.1
3.1
3.8
3.8
0.1
0.1
11.2
11.2
100.0
100.0
Kansas
Kansas
6.2
6.2
4.1
4.1
9.9
9.9
21.9
21.9
23.7
23.7
0.5
0.5
6.4
6.4
0.0
0.0
27.3
27.3
100.0
100.0
Kentucky
Kentucky
74.5
74.5
8.8
8.8
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
9.5
9.5
5.7
5.7
0.0
0.0
1.5
1.5
100.0
100.0
Louisiana
Louisiana
5.5
5.5
0.0
0.0
25.1
25.1
14.9
14.9
7.8
7.8
21.4
21.4
8.0
8.0
3.8
3.8
13.5
13.5
100.0
100.0
CRS-17
CRS-17
Work
Emergency
Refund-
Education
and Short-
Basic
Pre-K
Child
able Tax
and
Term
State
Assistance
Child Care
Head Start
Welfare
Credits
Training
Administration
Benefits
Other
Totals
Maine
Maine
28.6
28.6
15.5
15.5
0.4
0.4
7.8
7.8
11.4
11.4
10.2
10.2
2.8
2.8
4.4
4.4
18.9
18.9
100.0
100.0
Maryland
Maryland
28.3
28.3
0.9
0.9
9.6
9.6
5.0
5.0
33.5
33.5
4.6
4.6
3.9
3.9
6.1
6.1
8.0
8.0
100.0
100.0
Massachusetts
Massachusetts
19.4
19.4
30.3
30.3
0.0
0.0
1.0
1.0
15.8
15.8
15.1
15.1
2.9
2.9
8.3
8.3
7.1
7.1
100.0
100.0
Michigan
Michigan
8.3
8.3
2.1
2.1
12.7
12.7
5.9
5.9
2.5
2.5
0.3
0.3
4.5
4.5
1.7
1.7
62.0
62.0
100.0
100.0
Minnesota
Minnesota
24.5
24.5
24.5
24.5
1.1
1.1
0.0
0.0
21.7
21.7
11.5
11.5
9.0
9.0
2.8
2.8
5.0
5.0
100.0
100.0
Mississippi
Mississippi
6.2
6.2
3.0
3.0
0.0
0.0
26.5
26.5
0.0
0.0
34.1
34.1
11.8
11.8
0.0
0.0
18.4
18.4
100.0
100.0
Missouri
Missouri
5.6
5.6
6.2
6.2
0.0
0.0
32.2
32.2
0.0
0.0
18.9
18.9
1.8
1.8
22.4
22.4
12.8
12.8
100.0
100.0
Montana
Montana
33.1
33.1
17.7
17.7
0.0
0.0
4.7
4.7
0.0
0.0
6.8
6.8
14.5
14.5
2.7
2.7
20.4
20.4
100.0
100.0
Nebraska
Nebraska
26.4
26.4
9.0
9.0
0.0
0.0
8.0
8.0
36.7
36.7
12.4
12.4
3.9
3.9
0.2
0.2
3.4
3.4
100.0
100.0
Nevada
Nevada
31.2
31.2
8.7
8.7
0.0
0.0
26.8
26.8
0.0
0.0
0.5
0.5
7.4
7.4
6.9
6.9
18.5
18.5
100.0
100.0
New Hampshire
New Hampshire
42.3
42.3
6.6
6.6
0.0
0.0
4.7
4.7
0.0
0.0
8.3
8.3
13.9
13.9
2.6
2.6
21.5
21.5
100.0
100.0
New Jersey
New Jersey
5.7
5.7
10.4
10.4
42.4
42.4
0.0
0.0
27.6
27.6
4.2
4.2
3.8
3.8
1.1
1.1
4.8
4.8
100.0
100.0
New Mexico
New Mexico
15.2
15.2
13.0
13.0
16.7
16.7
0.2
0.2
41.1
41.1
4.2
4.2
1.8
1.8
2.7
2.7
5.0
5.0
100.0
100.0
New York
New York
30.8
30.8
7.1
7.1
15.4
15.4
6.8
6.8
19.4
19.4
2.7
2.7
8.3
8.3
3.7
3.7
5.9
5.9
100.0
100.0
North Carolina
North Carolina
5.3
5.3
37.7
37.7
13.3
13.3
26.0
26.0
0.0
0.0
0.8
0.8
7.9
7.9
0.7
0.7
8.3
8.3
100.0
100.0
North Dakota
North Dakota
14.8
14.8
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
50.3
50.3
0.0
0.0
11.6
11.6
17.2
17.2
0.1
0.1
5.9
5.9
100.0
100.0
Ohio
Ohio
19.0
19.0
36.4
36.4
0.0
0.0
1.6
1.6
0.0
0.0
7.3
7.3
8.9
8.9
5.9
5.9
20.9
20.9
100.0
100.0
Oklahoma
Oklahoma
16.8
16.8
34.5
34.5
0.0
0.0
7.0
7.0
0.0
0.0
11.9
11.9
6.4
6.4
0.4
0.4
23.0
23.0
100.0
100.0
Oregon
Oregon
38.8
38.8
11.8
11.8
8.2
8.2
2.3
2.3
2.0
2.0
10.9
10.9
7.0
7.0
6.2
6.2
13.0
13.0
100.0
100.0
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
11.0
11.0
38.8
38.8
23.0
23.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
10.5
10.5
5.8
5.8
0.6
0.6
10.4
10.4
100.0
100.0
Rhode Island
Rhode Island
11.5
11.5
20.0
20.0
0.9
0.9
14.9
14.9
12.2
12.2
7.1
7.1
5.1
5.1
7.3
7.3
21.0
21.0
100.0
100.0
CRS-18
CRS-18
Work
Emergency
Refund-
Education
and Short-
Basic
Pre-K
Child
able Tax
and
Term
State
Assistance
Child Care
Head Start
Welfare
Credits
Training
Administration
Benefits
Other
Totals
South Carolina
South Carolina
18.6
18.6
2.6
2.6
16.6
16.6
2.5
2.5
0.0
0.0
4.5
4.5
11.9
11.9
0.0
0.0
43.3
43.3
100.0
100.0
South Dakota
South Dakota
40.6
40.6
2.7
2.7
0.0
0.0
13.9
13.9
0.0
0.0
11.0
11.0
6.9
6.9
14.3
14.3
10.6
10.6
100.0
100.0
Tennessee
Tennessee
40.7
40.7
2.8
2.8
30.8
30.8
5.4
5.4
0.0
0.0
7.4
7.4
11.3
11.3
0.0
0.0
1.6
1.6
100.0
100.0
Texas
Texas
3.7
3.7
0.0
0.0
34.0
34.0
40.0
40.0
0.0
0.0
8.1
8.1
8.7
8.7
0.2
0.2
5.4
5.4
100.0
100.0
Utah
Utah
19.3
19.3
26.6
26.6
2.3
2.3
1.2
1.2
0.0
0.0
19.6
19.6
9.1
9.1
1.8
1.8
20.1
20.1
100.0
100.0
Vermont
Vermont
13.3
13.3
35.3
35.3
0.0
0.0
8.5
8.5
20.7
20.7
0.4
0.4
6.0
6.0
0.6
0.6
15.3
15.3
100.0
100.0
Virginia
Virginia
24.9
24.9
7.4
7.4
1.9
1.9
18.3
18.3
0.1
0.1
11.0
11.0
15.3
15.3
2.2
2.2
18.9
18.9
100.0
100.0
Washington
Washington
14.6
14.6
16.0
16.0
5.9
5.9
3.3
3.3
0.0
0.0
11.1
11.1
4.2
4.2
4.3
4.3
40.6
40.6
100.0
100.0
West Virginia
West Virginia
34.3
34.3
15.6
15.6
0.0
0.0
19.3
19.3
0.0
0.0
0.2
0.2
10.2
10.2
1.1
1.1
19.2
19.2
100.0
100.0
Wisconsin
Wisconsin
14.6
14.6
33.4
33.4
0.0
0.0
1.6
1.6
12.4
12.4
5.5
5.5
5.0
5.0
4.6
4.6
22.8
22.8
100.0
100.0
Wyoming
Wyoming
46.0
46.0
5.2
5.2
5.4
5.4
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
14.3
14.3
8.8
8.8
11.8
11.8
8.5
8.5
100.0
100.0
Percentage of Total
Percentage of Total
22.6
22.6
16.2
16.2
9.7
9.7
9.0
9.0
8.5
8.5
7.6
7.6
7.1
7.1
4.2
4.2
15.1
15.1
100.0
100.0
Source: : Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and
Families (ACF), Office of Family Assistance. Families (ACF), Office of Family Assistance.
Notes: Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in tribal TANF programs. Also excludes spending from the Pandemic Emergency Assistance Fund. Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in tribal TANF programs. Also excludes spending from the Pandemic Emergency Assistance Fund.
CRS-19
CRS-19
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Table B-3. Unspent TANF Funds at the End of FY2021
(September 30, 2021, dollars in millions)
(September 30, 2021, dollars in millions)
State
Unliquidated Obligations
Unobligated Balance
Alabama
Alabama
$10.000
$10.000
$103.338
$103.338
Alaska
Alaska
22.434
22.434
0.000
0.000
Arizona
Arizona
0.000
0.000
52.910
52.910
Arkansas
Arkansas
30.757
30.757
81.927
81.927
California
California
544.053
544.053
0.000
0.000
Colorado
Colorado
0.000
0.000
100.116
100.116
Connecticut
Connecticut
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
Delaware
Delaware
3.038
3.038
41.844
41.844
District of Columbia
District of Columbia
0.000
0.000
15.151
15.151
Florida
Florida
0.000
0.000
100.689
100.689
Georgia
Georgia
39.196
39.196
119.452
119.452
Hawaii
Hawaii
26.939
26.939
378.498
378.498
Idaho
Idaho
0.000
0.000
10.763
10.763
IllinoisIl inois
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
Indiana
Indiana
10.799
10.799
54.338
54.338
Iowa
Iowa
0.000
0.000
27.199
27.199
Kansas
Kansas
3.870
3.870
58.384
58.384
Kentucky
Kentucky
0.000
0.000
71.791
71.791
Louisiana
Louisiana
0.000
0.000
71.546
71.546
Maine
Maine
35.681
35.681
56.365
56.365
Maryland
Maryland
0.000
0.000
15.827
15.827
Massachusetts
Massachusetts
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
Michigan
Michigan
0.000
0.000
115.981
115.981
Minnesota
Minnesota
0.000
0.000
141.295
141.295
Mississippi
Mississippi
0.000
0.000
97.906
97.906
Missouri
Missouri
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
Montana
Montana
0.000
0.000
41.651
41.651
Nebraska
Nebraska
65.682
65.682
55.541
55.541
Nevada
Nevada
0.646
0.646
38.839
38.839
New Hampshire
New Hampshire
0.000
0.000
52.564
52.564
New Jersey
New Jersey
141.402
141.402
0.000
0.000
New Mexico
New Mexico
48.103
48.103
7.139
7.139
New York
New York
39.745
39.745
1,216.600
1,216.600
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
20
20
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
State
Unliquidated Obligations
Unobligated Balance
North Carolina
North Carolina
44.146
44.146
0.046
0.046
North Dakota
North Dakota
0.000
0.000
6.183
6.183
Ohio
Ohio
608.572
608.572
10.393
10.393
Oklahoma
Oklahoma
0.000
0.000
333.671
333.671
Oregon
Oregon
0.000
0.000
135.508
135.508
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
128.096
128.096
669.260
669.260
Rhode Island
Rhode Island
0.000
0.000
51.701
51.701
South Carolina
South Carolina
0.000
0.000
8.379
8.379
South Dakota
South Dakota
0.000
0.000
23.311
23.311
Tennessee
Tennessee
0.000
0.000
798.337
798.337
Texas
Texas
0.000
0.000
363.598
363.598
Utah
Utah
0.000
0.000
76.594
76.594
Vermont
Vermont
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
Virginia
Virginia
7.808
7.808
104.563
104.563
Washington
Washington
43.648
43.648
98.034
98.034
West Virginia
West Virginia
0.000
0.000
110.193
110.193
Wisconsin
Wisconsin
0.000
0.000
213.669
213.669
Wyoming
Wyoming
0.000
0.000
25.430
25.430
Totals
Totals
1,854.618
1,854.618
6,156.520
6,156.520
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), Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Family Assistance. Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Family Assistance.
Notes: Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in tribal TANF programs. Also excludes spending from Excludes TANF funds used in the territories and in tribal TANF programs. Also excludes spending from
the Pandemic Emergency Assistance Fund. the Pandemic Emergency Assistance Fund.
Table B-4. Number of Families, Recipients, Children, and Adults Receiving TANF
Assistance by Jurisdiction, September 2022
State
Families
Recipients
Children
Adults
Alabama
Alabama
5,821
5,821
13,422
13,422
11,070
11,070
2,352
2,352
Alaska
Alaska
1,319
1,319
3,511
3,511
2,476
2,476
1,035
1,035
Arizona
Arizona
5,531
5,531
11,095
11,095
9,331
9,331
1,764
1,764
Arkansas
Arkansas
939
939
2,131
2,131
1,711
1,711
420
420
California
California
382,605
382,605
1,288,339
1,288,339
891,993
891,993
396,346
396,346
Colorado
Colorado
12,195
12,195
29,805
29,805
21,801
21,801
8,004
8,004
Connecticut
Connecticut
4,971
4,971
11,074
11,074
8,127
8,127
2,947
2,947
Delaware
Delaware
2,945
2,945
8,297
8,297
4,947
4,947
3,350
3,350
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State
Families
Recipients
Children
Adults
District of Columbia
District of Columbia
6,779
6,779
21,125
21,125
15,852
15,852
5,273
5,273
Florida
Florida
30,686
30,686
55,035
55,035
40,046
40,046
14,989
14,989
Georgia
Georgia
5,734
5,734
10,608
10,608
9,936
9,936
672
672
Guam
Guam
343
343
934
934
689
689
245
245
Hawaii
Hawaii
3,681
3,681
10,608
10,608
7,248
7,248
3,360
3,360
Idaho
Idaho
1,522
1,522
2,118
2,118
2,079
2,079
39
39
IllinoisIl inois
10,058
10,058
20,273
20,273
17,871
17,871
2,402
2,402
Indiana
Indiana
4,117
4,117
8,663
8,663
7,469
7,469
1,194
1,194
Iowa
Iowa
5,108
5,108
12,394
12,394
9,593
9,593
2,801
2,801
Kansas
Kansas
2,940
2,940
2,940
2,940
1,540
1,540
1,400
1,400
Kentucky
Kentucky
11,359
11,359
23,089
23,089
19,739
19,739
3,350
3,350
Louisiana
Louisiana
4,259
4,259
10,743
10,743
8,776
8,776
1,967
1,967
Maine
Maine
12,735
12,735
43,279
43,279
27,155
27,155
16,124
16,124
Maryland
Maryland
16,773
16,773
45,401
45,401
32,688
32,688
12,713
12,713
Massachusetts
Massachusetts
55,310
55,310
150,160
150,160
105,089
105,089
45,071
45,071
Michigan
Michigan
8,751
8,751
23,617
23,617
18,534
18,534
5,083
5,083
Minnesota
Minnesota
13,697
13,697
32,321
32,321
24,402
24,402
7,919
7,919
Mississippi
Mississippi
1,687
1,687
2,315
2,315
2,085
2,085
230
230
Missouri
Missouri
6,047
6,047
13,981
13,981
10,915
10,915
3,066
3,066
Montana
Montana
1,854
1,854
4,216
4,216
3,467
3,467
749
749
Nebraska
Nebraska
3,072
3,072
7,198
7,198
6,232
6,232
966
966
Nevada
Nevada
6,245
6,245
16,270
16,270
11,814
11,814
4,456
4,456
New Hampshire
New Hampshire
3,746
3,746
8,949
8,949
6,748
6,748
2,201
2,201
New Jersey
New Jersey
9,568
9,568
23,846
23,846
17,019
17,019
6,827
6,827
New Mexico
New Mexico
9,540
9,540
24,044
24,044
17,664
17,664
6,380
6,380
New York
New York
115,984
115,984
298,197
298,197
200,273
200,273
97,924
97,924
North Carolina
North Carolina
11,907
11,907
21,868
21,868
19,082
19,082
2,786
2,786
North Dakota
North Dakota
596
596
1,415
1,415
1,253
1,253
162
162
Ohio
Ohio
41,983
41,983
74,653
74,653
68,538
68,538
6,115
6,115
Oklahoma
Oklahoma
3,542
3,542
7,611
7,611
6,835
6,835
776
776
Oregon
Oregon
38,116
38,116
113,153
113,153
73,874
73,874
39,279
39,279
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
29,470
29,470
73,730
73,730
55,843
55,843
17,887
17,887
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico
3,158
3,158
8,687
8,687
5,413
5,413
3,274
3,274
Rhode Island
Rhode Island
3,150
3,150
8,350
8,350
5,937
5,937
2,413
2,413
South Carolina
South Carolina
6,233
6,233
14,308
14,308
11,774
11,774
2,534
2,534
South Dakota
South Dakota
2,393
2,393
4,679
4,679
4,383
4,383
296
296
Tennessee
Tennessee
13,852
13,852
29,286
29,286
23,761
23,761
5,525
5,525
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State
Families
Recipients
Children
Adults
Texas
Texas
10,879
10,879
20,782
20,782
18,438
18,438
2,344
2,344
Utah
Utah
1,924
1,924
4,338
4,338
3,260
3,260
1,078
1,078
Vermont
Vermont
2,085
2,085
4,714
4,714
3,448
3,448
1,266
1,266
Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands
61
61
211
211
150
150
61
61
Virginia
Virginia
20,419
20,419
42,644
42,644
31,939
31,939
10,705
10,705
Washington
Washington
44,355
44,355
112,885
112,885
74,229
74,229
38,656
38,656
West Virginia
West Virginia
5,257
5,257
10,217
10,217
8,610
8,610
1,607
1,607
Wisconsin
Wisconsin
12,156
12,156
26,201
26,201
21,916
21,916
4,285
4,285
Wyoming
Wyoming
441
441
1,043
1,043
812
812
231
231
Totals
Totals
1,019,898
1,019,898
2,820,773
2,820,773
2,015,874
2,015,874
804,899
804,899
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). Data as of December 27, 2022, and subject to revision. Services (HHS). Data as of December 27, 2022, and subject to revision.
Notes: TANF cash assistance caseload includes families receiving assistance in state-funded programs counted TANF cash assistance caseload includes families receiving assistance in state-funded programs counted
toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement. toward the TANF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement.
Table B-5. Number of Needy Families with Children Receiving Assistance
by Jurisdiction, September of Selected Years
Percentage Change
1994-
2021-
State
1994
2019
2021
2022
2022
2022
Alabama
Alabama
48,752
48,752
7,687
7,687
5,678
5,678
5,821
5,821
-88.1%
-88.1%
2.5%
2.5%
Alaska
Alaska
12,450
12,450
2,245
2,245
1,573
1,573
1,319
1,319
-89.4
-89.4
-16.1
-16.1
Arizona
Arizona
72,728
72,728
7,010
7,010
6,113
6,113
5,531
5,531
-92.4
-92.4
-9.5
-9.5
Arkansas
Arkansas
25,298
25,298
2,357
2,357
1,365
1,365
939
939
-96.3
-96.3
-31.2
-31.2
California
California
916,795
916,795
367,313
367,313
301,515
301,515
382,605
382,605
-58.3
-58.3
26.9
26.9
Colorado
Colorado
40,544
40,544
14,226
14,226
10,373
10,373
12,195
12,195
-69.9
-69.9
17.6
17.6
Connecticut
Connecticut
60,336
60,336
7,724
7,724
4,723
4,723
4,971
4,971
-91.8
-91.8
5.3
5.3
Delaware
Delaware
11,408
11,408
3,249
3,249
2,695
2,695
2,945
2,945
-74.2
-74.2
9.3
9.3
District of Columbia
District of Columbia
27,320
27,320
7,745
7,745
7,383
7,383
6,779
6,779
-75.2
-75.2
-8.2
-8.2
Florida
Florida
239,702
239,702
38,093
38,093
31,956
31,956
30,686
30,686
-87.2
-87.2
-4.0
-4.0
Georgia
Georgia
141,596
141,596
8,837
8,837
7,286
7,286
5,734
5,734
-96.0
-96.0
-21.3
-21.3
Guam
Guam
2,089
2,089
439
439
333
333
343
343
-83.6
-83.6
3.0
3.0
Hawaii
Hawaii
21,312
21,312
4,029
4,029
5,553
5,553
3,681
3,681
-82.7
-82.7
-33.7
-33.7
Idaho
Idaho
8,635
8,635
2,043
2,043
1,615
1,615
1,522
1,522
-82.4
-82.4
-5.8
-5.8
IllinoisIl inois
241,290
241,290
10,874
10,874
9,673
9,673
10,058
10,058
-95.8
-95.8
4.0
4.0
Indiana
Indiana
72,654
72,654
5,164
5,164
6,637
6,637
4,117
4,117
-94.3
-94.3
-38.0
-38.0
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Percentage Change
1994-
2021-
State
1994
2019
2021
2022
2022
2022
Iowa
Iowa
39,137
39,137
8,922
8,922
5,894
5,894
5,108
5,108
-86.9
-86.9
-13.3
-13.3
Kansas
Kansas
29,524
29,524
4,039
4,039
2,845
2,845
2,940
2,940
-90.0
-90.0
3.3
3.3
Kentucky
Kentucky
78,720
78,720
16,586
16,586
11,866
11,866
11,359
11,359
-85.6
-85.6
-4.3
-4.3
Louisiana
Louisiana
84,162
84,162
4,726
4,726
2,667
2,667
4,259
4,259
-94.9
-94.9
59.7
59.7
Maine
Maine
22,322
22,322
14,634
14,634
11,184
11,184
12,735
12,735
-42.9
-42.9
13.9
13.9
Maryland
Maryland
80,266
80,266
16,469
16,469
20,949
20,949
16,773
16,773
-79.1
-79.1
-19.9
-19.9
Massachusetts
Massachusetts
108,985
108,985
50,166
50,166
41,924
41,924
55,310
55,310
-49.2
-49.2
31.9
31.9
Michigan
Michigan
215,873
215,873
10,788
10,788
7,795
7,795
8,751
8,751
-95.9
-95.9
12.3
12.3
Minnesota
Minnesota
59,987
59,987
15,399
15,399
17,511
17,511
13,697
13,697
-77.2
-77.2
-21.8
-21.8
Mississippi
Mississippi
55,232
55,232
3,083
3,083
1,605
1,605
1,687
1,687
-96.9
-96.9
5.1
5.1
Missouri
Missouri
91,875
91,875
9,760
9,760
6,679
6,679
6,047
6,047
-93.4
-93.4
-9.5
-9.5
Montana
Montana
11,416
11,416
3,236
3,236
1,957
1,957
1,854
1,854
-83.8
-83.8
-5.3
-5.3
Nebraska
Nebraska
15,435
15,435
4,364
4,364
3,348
3,348
3,072
3,072
-80.1
-80.1
-8.2
-8.2
Nevada
Nevada
14,620
14,620
8,042
8,042
5,592
5,592
6,245
6,245
-57.3
-57.3
11.7
11.7
New Hampshire
New Hampshire
11,398
11,398
5,206
5,206
4,004
4,004
3,746
3,746
-67.1
-67.1
-6.4
-6.4
New Jersey
New Jersey
122,376
122,376
8,857
8,857
8,083
8,083
9,568
9,568
-92.2
-92.2
18.4
18.4
New Mexico
New Mexico
34,535
34,535
10,087
10,087
11,665
11,665
9,540
9,540
-72.4
-72.4
-18.2
-18.2
New York
New York
461,751
461,751
113,971
113,971
101,625
101,625
115,984
115,984
-74.9
-74.9
14.1
14.1
North Carolina
North Carolina
129,258
129,258
13,064
13,064
12,550
12,550
11,907
11,907
-90.8
-90.8
-5.1
-5.1
North Dakota
North Dakota
5,410
5,410
957
957
1,026
1,026
596
596
-89.0
-89.0
-41.9
-41.9
Ohio
Ohio
244,099
244,099
51,140
51,140
43,396
43,396
41,983
41,983
-82.8
-82.8
-3.3
-3.3
Oklahoma
Oklahoma
46,572
46,572
5,949
5,949
3,972
3,972
3,542
3,542
-92.4
-92.4
-10.8
-10.8
Oregon
Oregon
40,504
40,504
36,971
36,971
28,291
28,291
38,116
38,116
-5.9
-5.9
34.7
34.7
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
212,457
212,457
39,746
39,746
25,073
25,073
29,470
29,470
-86.1
-86.1
17.5
17.5
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico
57,337
57,337
4,475
4,475
4,326
4,326
3,158
3,158
-94.5
-94.5
-27.0
-27.0
Rhode Island
Rhode Island
22,776
22,776
4,002
4,002
2,267
2,267
3,150
3,150
-86.2
-86.2
39.0
39.0
South Carolina
South Carolina
50,430
50,430
7,649
7,649
6,869
6,869
6,233
6,233
-87.6
-87.6
-9.3
-9.3
South Dakota
South Dakota
6,601
6,601
2,923
2,923
2,352
2,352
2,393
2,393
-63.7
-63.7
1.7
1.7
Tennessee
Tennessee
109,678
109,678
19,221
19,221
13,402
13,402
13,852
13,852
-87.4
-87.4
3.4
3.4
Texas
Texas
284,973
284,973
22,821
22,821
14,626
14,626
10,879
10,879
-96.2
-96.2
-25.6
-25.6
Utah
Utah
17,505
17,505
3,170
3,170
2,196
2,196
1,924
1,924
-89.0
-89.0
-12.4
-12.4
Vermont
Vermont
9,761
9,761
2,669
2,669
1,938
1,938
2,085
2,085
-78.6
-78.6
7.6
7.6
Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands
1,146
1,146
96
96
74
74
61
61
-94.7
-94.7
-17.6
-17.6
Virginia
Virginia
74,257
74,257
16,649
16,649
17,922
17,922
20,419
20,419
-72.5
-72.5
13.9
13.9
Washington
Washington
101,542
101,542
36,023
36,023
35,223
35,223
44,355
44,355
-56.3
-56.3
25.9
25.9
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Percentage Change
1994-
2021-
State
1994
2019
2021
2022
2022
2022
West Virginia
West Virginia
40,279
40,279
6,331
6,331
5,550
5,550
5,257
5,257
-86.9
-86.9
-5.3
-5.3
Wisconsin
Wisconsin
75,086
75,086
15,122
15,122
13,881
13,881
12,156
12,156
-83.8
-83.8
-12.4
-12.4
Wyoming
Wyoming
5,351
5,351
504
504
450
450
441
441
-91.8
-91.8
-2.0
-2.0
Totals
Totals
5,015,545
5,015,545
1,086,852
1,086,852
907,048
907,048
1,019,898
1,019,898
-79.7
-79.7
12.4
12.4
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). Data as of December 27, 2022, and subject to revision. Services (HHS). Data as of December 27, 2022, and subject to revision.
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 Cash Assistance Maximum Monthly Benefit Amounts for a Single-
Parent Family with One Child, By Jurisdiction, July 2020
Monthly Dollar Amount and as a Percentage of the Federal Poverty Level for 2020
Monthly Dollar Amount and as a Percentage of the Federal Poverty Level for 2020
Maximum Monthly
Benefit as a
Percentage of the
Maximum Monthly
Federal Poverty
Benefit ($)
Level
Alabama
Alabama
$190
$190
13.2%
13.2%
Alaska
Alaska
821
821
45.7
45.7
Arizona
Arizona
220
220
15.3
15.3
Arkansas
Arkansas
162
162
11.3
11.3
California
California
696
696
48.4
48.4
Colorado
Colorado
400
400
27.8
27.8
Connecticut
Connecticut
487
487
33.9
33.9
Delaware
Delaware
270
270
18.8
18.8
District of Columbia
District of Columbia
515
515
35.8
35.8
Florida
Florida
241
241
16.8
16.8
Georgia
Georgia
235
235
16.4
16.4
Hawaii
Hawaii
485
485
29.3
29.3
Idaho
Idaho
309
309
21.5
21.5
IllinoisIl inois
423
423
29.4
29.4
Indiana
Indiana
229
229
15.9
15.9
Iowa
Iowa
361
361
25.1
25.1
Kansas
Kansas
352
352
24.5
24.5
Kentucky
Kentucky
225
225
15.7
15.7
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Maximum Monthly
Benefit as a
Percentage of the
Maximum Monthly
Federal Poverty
Benefit ($)
Level
Louisiana
Louisiana
188
188
13.1
13.1
Maine
Maine
456
456
31.7
31.7
Maryland
Maryland
575
575
40.0
40.0
Massachusetts
Massachusetts
531
531
37.0
37.0
Michigan
Michigan
403
403
28.1
28.1
Minnesota
Minnesota
537
537
37.4
37.4
Mississippi
Mississippi
146
146
10.2
10.2
Missouri
Missouri
234
234
16.3
16.3
Montana
Montana
467
467
32.5
32.5
Nebraska
Nebraska
393
393
27.4
27.4
Nevada
Nevada
320
320
22.3
22.3
New Hampshire
New Hampshire
862
862
60.0
60.0
New Jersey
New Jersey
425
425
29.6
29.6
New Mexico
New Mexico
357
357
24.8
24.8
New York
New York
574
574
40.0
40.0
North Carolina
North Carolina
236
236
16.4
16.4
North Dakota
North Dakota
385
385
26.8
26.8
Ohio
Ohio
412
412
28.7
28.7
Oklahoma
Oklahoma
225
225
15.7
15.7
Oregon
Oregon
432
432
30.1
30.1
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
316
316
22.0
22.0
Rhode Island
Rhode Island
449
449
31.3
31.3
South Carolina
South Carolina
237
237
16.5
16.5
South Dakota
South Dakota
550
550
38.3
38.3
Tennessee
Tennessee
215
215
15.0
15.0
Texas
Texas
262
262
18.2
18.2
Utah
Utah
399
399
27.8
27.8
Vermont
Vermont
580
580
40.4
40.4
Virginia
Virginia
422
422
29.4
29.4
Washington
Washington
459
459
31.9
31.9
West Virginia
West Virginia
331
331
23.0
23.0
Wisconsin
Wisconsin
653
653
45.5
45.5
Wyoming
Wyoming
669
669
46.6
46.6
Maximum State
Maximum State
862
862
60.0
60.0
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Maximum Monthly
Benefit as a
Percentage of the
Maximum Monthly
Federal Poverty
Benefit ($)
Level
Minimum State
Minimum State
146
146
10.2
10.2
Median State
Median State
399
399
27.8
27.8
Source: Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the Welfare Rules Database, funded by the Congressional Research Service (CRS), based on data from the Welfare Rules Database, funded by the
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and maintained at the Urban Institute. The Welfare Rules Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and maintained at the Urban Institute. The Welfare Rules
Database has information for the 50 states and District of Columbia. It does not have information on TANF 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 U.S. Virgin Islands or tribal TANF programs. Federal poverty assistance programs in Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands or tribal TANF programs. Federal poverty
level is from HHS at https://aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobility/poverty-guidelines/prior-hhs-poverty-level is from HHS at https://aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobility/poverty-guidelines/prior-hhs-poverty-
guidelines-federal-register-references/2020-poverty-guidelines. guidelines-federal-register-references/2020-poverty-guidelines.
Table B-7. TANF Work Participation Standard and Rate, By Jurisdiction for All
Families: FY2021
Caseload
Reduction
Credit
Effective
Work
Statutory
(percentage
(after credit)
Participation
Met the
State
Standard
points)
standard
Rate
Standard?
Alabama
Alabama
50.0%
50.0%
-50.0
-50.0
0.0%
0.0%
36.9%
36.9%
Yes
Yes
Alaska
Alaska
50.0
50.0
-42.0
-42.0
8.0
8.0
30.7
30.7
Yes
Yes
Arizona
Arizona
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
11.7
11.7
Yes
Yes
Arkansas
Arkansas
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
14.1
14.1
Yes
Yes
California
California
50.0
50.0
-30.2
-30.2
19.8
19.8
52.1
52.1
Yes
Yes
Colorado
Colorado
50.0
50.0
-49.2
-49.2
0.8
0.8
44.2
44.2
Yes
Yes
Connecticut
Connecticut
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
3.4
3.4
Yes
Yes
Delaware
Delaware
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
27.6
27.6
Yes
Yes
District of Col.
District of Col.
50.0
50.0
-39.7
-39.7
10.3
10.3
15.0
15.0
Yes
Yes
Florida
Florida
50.0
50.0
-34.5
-34.5
15.5
15.5
3.7
3.7
No
No
Georgia
Georgia
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
4.6
4.6
Yes
Yes
Guam
Guam
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
2.9
2.9
Yes
Yes
Hawaii
Hawaii
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
10.9
10.9
Yes
Yes
Idaho
Idaho
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
50.0
50.0
71.4
71.4
Yes
Yes
IllinoisIl inois
50.0
50.0
-42.4
-42.4
7.6
7.6
56.0
56.0
Yes
Yes
Indiana
Indiana
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
12.6
12.6
Yes
Yes
Iowa
Iowa
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
13.1
13.1
Yes
Yes
Kansas
Kansas
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
28.7
28.7
Yes
Yes
Kentucky
Kentucky
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
20.6
20.6
Yes
Yes
Louisiana
Louisiana
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
0.5
0.5
Yes
Yes
Maine
Maine
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
50.0
50.0
79.7
79.7
Yes
Yes
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Caseload
Reduction
Credit
Effective
Work
Statutory
(percentage
(after credit)
Participation
Met the
State
Standard
points)
standard
Rate
Standard?
Maryland
Maryland
50.0
50.0
-35.7
-35.7
14.3
14.3
3.2
3.2
No
No
Massachusetts
Massachusetts
50.0
50.0
-29.3
-29.3
20.7
20.7
53.8
53.8
Yes
Yes
Michigan
Michigan
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
25.2
25.2
Yes
Yes
Minnesota
Minnesota
50.0
50.0
-47.3
-47.3
2.7
2.7
14.9
14.9
Yes
Yes
Mississippi
Mississippi
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
41.7
41.7
Yes
Yes
Missouri
Missouri
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
17.4
17.4
Yes
Yes
Montana
Montana
50.0
50.0
-39.1
-39.1
10.9
10.9
36.3
36.3
Yes
Yes
Nebraska
Nebraska
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
9.6
9.6
Yes
Yes
Nevada
Nevada
50.0
50.0
-45.8
-45.8
4.2
4.2
22.8
22.8
Yes
Yes
New Hampshire
New Hampshire
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
50.0
50.0
58.9
58.9
Yes
Yes
New Jersey
New Jersey
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
4.3
4.3
Yes
Yes
New Mexico
New Mexico
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
7.2
7.2
Yes
Yes
New York
New York
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
10.3
10.3
Yes
Yes
North Carolina
North Carolina
50.0
50.0
-48.7
-48.7
1.3
1.3
4.7
4.7
Yes
Yes
North Dakota
North Dakota
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
8.5
8.5
Yes
Yes
Ohio
Ohio
50.0
50.0
-41.2
-41.2
8.8
8.8
31.9
31.9
Yes
Yes
Oklahoma
Oklahoma
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
13.7
13.7
Yes
Yes
Oregon
Oregon
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
50.0
50.0
34.1
34.1
No
No
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
11.3
11.3
Yes
Yes
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
0.6
0.6
Yes
Yes
Rhode Island
Rhode Island
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
6.5
6.5
Yes
Yes
South Carolina
South Carolina
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
9.0
9.0
Yes
Yes
South Dakota
South Dakota
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
50.0
50.0
58.8
58.8
Yes
Yes
Tennessee
Tennessee
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
24.8
24.8
Yes
Yes
Texas
Texas
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
3.1
3.1
Yes
Yes
Utah
Utah
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
10.5
10.5
Yes
Yes
Vermont
Vermont
50.0
50.0
-48.9
-48.9
1.1
1.1
35.4
35.4
Yes
Yes
Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
1.2
1.2
Yes
Yes
Virginia
Virginia
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
14.5
14.5
Yes
Yes
Washington
Washington
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
34.7
34.7
Yes
Yes
West Virginia
West Virginia
50.0
50.0
-50.0
-50.0
0.0
0.0
20.8
20.8
Yes
Yes
Wisconsin
Wisconsin
50.0
50.0
-42.5
-42.5
7.5
7.5
36.9
36.9
Yes
Yes
Wyoming
Wyoming
50.0
50.0
0.0
0.0
50.0
50.0
73.8
73.8
Yes
Yes
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).
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Table B-8. TANF Work Participation Standard and Rate, By Jurisdiction, for
Two-Parent Families: FY2021
(NA denotes that the jurisdiction did not have two-parent families receiving TANF or
(NA denotes that the jurisdiction did not have two-parent families receiving TANF or
MOE-funded assistance)
MOE-funded assistance)
Caseload
Reduction
Effective
Credit
(after
Work
Statutory
(percentage
credit)
Participation
Met the
State
Standard
points)
standard
Rate
Standard?
Alabama
Alabama
90.0
90.0
-90.0
-90.0
0.0
0.0
55.7
55.7
Yes
Yes
Alaska
Alaska
90.0
90.0
-52.1
-52.1
37.9
37.9
40.9
40.9
Yes
Yes
Arizona
Arizona
90.0
90.0
-75.9
-75.9
14.1
14.1
15.1
15.1
Yes
Yes
Arkansas
Arkansas
90.0
90.0
-76.7
-76.7
13.3
13.3
17.7
17.7
Yes
Yes
California
California
90.0
90.0
-34.4
-34.4
55.6
55.6
22.8
22.8
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
-46.8
-46.8
43.2
43.2
1.0
1.0
No
No
Georgia
Georgia
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Guam
Guam
90.0
90.0
-54.7
-54.7
35.3
35.3
0.6
0.6
No
No
Hawaii
Hawaii
90.0
90.0
-74.3
-74.3
15.7
15.7
12.4
12.4
No
No
Idaho
Idaho
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
IllinoisIl inois
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Indiana
Indiana
90.0
90.0
-77.7
-77.7
12.3
12.3
16.6
16.6
Yes
Yes
Iowa
Iowa
90.0
90.0
-84.7
-84.7
5.3
5.3
10.7
10.7
Yes
Yes
Kansas
Kansas
90.0
90.0
-67.0
-67.0
23.0
23.0
31.5
31.5
Yes
Yes
Kentucky
Kentucky
90.0
90.0
-62.2
-62.2
27.8
27.8
32.5
32.5
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
91.6
91.6
Yes
Yes
Maryland
Maryland
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Massachusetts
Massachusetts
90.0
90.0
-29.3
-29.3
60.7
60.7
91.4
91.4
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
-70.4
-70.4
19.6
19.6
38.5
38.5
Yes
Yes
Nebraska
Nebraska
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Nevada
Nevada
90.0
90.0
-45.8
-45.8
44.2
44.2
29.0
29.0
No
No
New Hampshire
New Hampshire
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Congressional Research Service
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Caseload
Reduction
Effective
Credit
(after
Work
Statutory
(percentage
credit)
Participation
Met the
State
Standard
points)
standard
Rate
Standard?
New Jersey
New Jersey
90.0
90.0
-83.8
-83.8
6.2
6.2
95.9
95.9
Yes
Yes
New Mexico
New Mexico
90.0
90.0
-66.2
-66.2
23.8
23.8
8.5
8.5
No
No
New York
New York
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
North Carolina
North Carolina
90.0
90.0
-48.7
-48.7
41.3
41.3
9.7
9.7
No
No
North Dakota
North Dakota
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Ohio
Ohio
90.0
90.0
-83.0
-83.0
7.0
7.0
29.6
29.6
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
67.8
67.8
No
No
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
90.0
90.0
-90.0
-90.0
0.0
0.0
34.0
34.0
Yes
Yes
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Rhode Island
Rhode Island
90.0
90.0
-63.7
-63.7
26.3
26.3
6.8
6.8
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
-76.7
-76.7
13.3
13.3
24.0
24.0
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
-58.9
-58.9
31.1
31.1
79.9
79.9
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
-52.5
-52.5
37.5
37.5
58.1
58.1
Yes
Yes
West Virginia
West Virginia
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Wisconsin
Wisconsin
90.0
90.0
-63.1
-63.1
26.9
26.9
39.9
39.9
Yes
Yes
Wyoming
Wyoming
90.0
90.0
0.0
0.0
90.0
90.0
70.4
70.4
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).
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
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant: FAQs
Acknowledgments
CRS Graphics Specialist Amber Wilhelm produced this report’s data visualizations.
CRS Graphics Specialist Amber Wilhelm produced this report’s data visualizations.
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
material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to
copy or otherwise use copyrighted material. copy or otherwise use copyrighted material.
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
RL32760
RL32760
· VERSION 210215 · UPDATED
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