Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is Delaware’s main cash assistance program. It offers temporary financial support to help families with children work toward lasting self-sufficiency.
TANF is based on shared responsibility.
- The State provides the financial support and resources to help you succeed.
Most eligible individuals can receive TANF for up to 36 months. During this time, clients must engage in work or approved work-related activities for at least 30 hours each week.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for TANF, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be an 18-year-old high school student who will graduate before turning 19.
- Meet income and resource guidelines, which your DSS case manager will review.
To calculate your eligibility:
- Up to $200 is deducted for child care costs
- The first $50 of child support received is not counted.
Income Limits and Payment Amounts
Effective October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027
| Number of People in the Budget Group | Maximum Gross Monthly Income | Recipient Maximum Net Monthly Income | Applicant Maximum Net Monthly Income | Payment Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,846 | $998 | $241 | $241 |
| 2 | $2,503 | $1,353 | $324 | $324 |
| 3 | $3,160 | $1,708 | $405 | $405 |
| 4 | $3,817 | $2,063 | $488 | $488 |
| 5 | $4,473 | $2,418 | $570 | $570 |
| 6 | $5,130 | $2,773 | $652 | $652 |
| 7 | $5,787 | $3,128 | $734 | $734 |
| 8 | $6,444 | $3,483 | $817 | $817 |
| 9 | $7,102 | $3,839 | $900 | $900 |
| 10 | $7,759 | $4,194 | $982 | $982 |
| Program Name | Resource Limit |
|---|---|
| TANF | $10,000 |
We subtract $90 for work expenses, up to $200 for child care expenses, and the first $50 of child support you receive to determine your net income.
Non-parent caregivers can choose to receive benefits for related children in their care. The caregiver’s income does not count, but the children’s income may count.
Families who receive TANF (recipients) may get more deductions from their earned income. TANF also has higher income limits for these families. This means many families can keep getting TANF even after they start working.
Program Requirements for TANF
To continue to receive TANF, you must:
- Look for and accept employment when offered.
- Attend school if you are also working at least 20 hours per week.
- Cooperate with the Division of Child Support Services.
- Keep your children in school and up-to-date with vaccinations.
- Participate in parenting classes.
- Receive information about family planning. Note: your benefit amount will not increase for children born 10 months or more after starting the program.
Your DSS case manager will explain any additional requirements based on your situation.
