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TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in Colorado

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help

  • Apply online now: use the secure Colorado PEAK application portal (official state site to apply, upload documents, and check case status).
  • Find your county human services office: use the CDHS county office locator (official directory for in‑person help, mailing addresses, and fax numbers).
  • Ask about emergency help: when you apply, tell the worker if you’re facing shutoffs, eviction, or no food. Ask about “Immediate Needs” or a “Diversion”/one‑time payment under Colorado Works. See program basics at Colorado Works (TANF) – CDHS.
  • Safety concerns or abuse? You can claim “Good Cause” to not pursue child support and get extra protections. Get confidential help any time at the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233, TTY 1-800-787-3224) and tell your county worker you need a domestic violence waiver.
  • Need legal help with a denial or sanction? Contact Colorado Legal Services (civil legal aid statewide).
  • Don’t wait. Apply first, then upload missing paperwork. You can submit documents after you submit your application in PEAK or by turning them in to your county office.

What TANF Is in Colorado (Colorado Works)

Action first: start or finish your application at the official Colorado PEAK portal. If you prefer in‑person or paper, get directions and contact info via the CDHS county office locator.


Colorado’s TANF program is called Colorado Works. It provides cash assistance and work‑focused support to eligible families with children. The help can include a monthly cash benefit, employment services, and limited supportive payments (like transportation or work clothing) tied to your plan. The program is run by the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS), and day‑to‑day rules are applied by your county.

Key facts you can count on (from federal and state sources):

Reality check:

  • Amounts vary by county and family size and can change during the year. Colorado counties have some flexibility. CDHS points applicants to the PEAK portal to check current amounts for your household. Use the PEAK eligibility check to get an estimate before you apply.
  • You will have to meet work‑related activities unless you are exempt. If something makes you unsafe or unable to join certain activities (for example, domestic violence, medical limitations, a newborn), tell your worker and ask for a waiver or a different activity. This is allowed under both federal TANF and Colorado Works rules.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t get into PEAK or the site is down, call your county office via the CDHS county office locator, ask for same‑day help, and request an appointment or to drop off a paper application.
  • If you’re turned away or told to “come back later,” submit your application anyway (date‑stamping matters). You can add documents later. For help, dial 2‑1‑1 or visit 2‑1‑1 Colorado.

What You Can Get From Colorado Works

Action first: ask the county about both ongoing monthly cash and any “diversion” or one‑time help that could solve an immediate crisis. Confirm all supportive services you can receive as part of your employment plan.

Here’s what Colorado Works can cover, depending on your county and your plan:

Help Type What It Is Notes and Official Sources
Monthly cash assistance Monthly payment to help with basics (rent, utilities, diapers, transportation). Amount varies by county and family size; estimate in PEAK. Program info at Colorado Works – CDHS.
Diversion/one‑time payment A short‑term payment instead of monthly aid, used to stop an immediate crisis (like keeping housing or a job). Ask your county if you qualify; counties set local rules. See program basics at Colorado Works – CDHS.
Employment services Job search help, training referrals, resume help, interview clothing, licensing/fees needed for work. Federal TANF work rules summarized by ACF. County implements locally.
Supportive services Transportation passes, work equipment, child care help connected to your plan. Ask county about what’s available while you’re in assigned activities. See Colorado Works – CDHS.
Domestic violence waivers Safety‑first changes to requirements; confidential plan. Good cause/waiver allowed under TANF. Get immediate help at The Hotline (1-800-799-7233).

Real‑world example:

  • A single mom in Aurora had a job offer but couldn’t afford the license fee and gas to start. The county approved a small supportive payment and a bus pass through her employment plan. She didn’t go on monthly cash—she used a diversion‑type payment and kept working. This kind of case is common and allowed under Colorado Works when it keeps a family stable. Confirm availability with your county.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If the county says “we don’t have that,” ask for the policy citation or ask them to check with a supervisor. You can also bring a printout of the Colorado Works page and ask about supportive services and diversion.
  • If you’re denied help and can’t wait, call 2‑1‑1 and ask for emergency rent/utility aid and shelters. Consider nonprofits listed later in this guide.

Who’s Eligible

Action first: apply, then let the county verify your exact situation. Even if a parent is not eligible, a child may still qualify.

Common eligibility basics (verify with official sources):

  • A minor child must live in the home (or you must be pregnant and meet program rules). See Colorado Works – CDHS.
  • You must live in Colorado.
  • Your household must meet income and resource limits set in state rules; counties apply these to your specific case. Check current amounts using PEAK or ask your county office.
  • U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen child in the home can qualify even if the parent is ineligible (mixed‑status households are common). TANF’s federal basics are at ACF TANF.
  • You must agree to the work plan unless exempt. Federal work rules are summarized at ACF TANF – work participation.

Reality checks:

  • Colorado has a 60‑month lifetime limit on TANF cash in line with federal law, with some exceptions for hardship or domestic violence. See ACF TANF basics.
  • Counties may have their own local procedures for diversions and supportive services. Always ask for the written policy or a handout.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re told you’re “over income” but your costs are high, still ask to run the numbers. Some income is not counted, and there may be earned income disregards. Use the PEAK estimator and ask the worker to explain the calculation.
  • If language is a barrier, you have a right to free interpretation at county offices. Ask for an interpreter. You can also bring your own helper (friend/advocate).

How Much Cash You Might Receive (and How to Check Real Numbers)

Action first: run an estimate in Colorado PEAK. It’s the fastest way to see current amounts for your household size and county.

Why we don’t post fixed dollar amounts here:

  • Colorado counties have flexibility and update rates over time. Our editorial standards prioritize linking you to calculators and application portals with live figures rather than risking outdated numbers. See our Editorial Policy (“Benefit amounts linked to current calculators rather than stating fixed figures”).

How to get exact figures today:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your estimate looks wrong, submit your application anyway. A worker will run the official calculation. You can appeal if you disagree with the result (see the Appeals section below).

Apply: Fastest Paths and Required Documents

Action first: submit your application online at Colorado PEAK, or turn in a paper application at your county office from the CDHS county office locator. Don’t wait to gather every document—turn in what you have and add the rest quickly.

Application Methods (Pick One)

Method How it works Where/Link Notes
Online Create an account, apply, upload documents, check messages. Apply on Colorado PEAK Easiest path to submit and track.
In person Visit your county human services office. Find your county office – CDHS directory Ask about same‑day intake and document scanning.
Mail/Fax Submit a paper application to your county. Addresses/faxes listed in the CDHS county office locator Keep copies and proof you sent it.

What to Bring (Common Documents)

Document Tips
Photo ID (for adult applying) State ID, driver’s license, passport, or other accepted ID.
Birth certificates and Social Security numbers (for children) If you don’t have them yet, apply and tell the county—you can provide later.
Proof of Colorado residency Lease, utility bill, or mail with your name and address.
Proof of income Pay stubs, employer letter, unemployment, child support, or benefits letters.
Bank statements or resource info Counties may review resources; ask what is counted.
Rent and utility bills Helpful for budgeting and immediate needs requests.
Proof of pregnancy (if applicable) Doctor’s statement with due date.
Any court or protection orders (if applicable) Helps with good cause or safety planning.

Timeline expectations:

  • TANF decisions are typically made within several weeks. If you have an emergency, tell the county right away. After you apply, you’ll be scheduled for an interview/orientation. You may need to attend a meeting to build your employment plan.

Official sources:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your county won’t accept your application, ask to speak to a supervisor. Submit by mail with delivery proof if needed. Use the CDHS county office locator to get the mailing address.
  • If you miss an interview, call immediately to reschedule. If you get a denial for “failure to complete interview,” you can reapply or appeal (see Appeals).

Work Requirements and Exemptions

Action first: ask for your work plan in writing and for a schedule that fits your childcare and transportation realities.

Federal TANF rules expect:

  • For most single parents: around 30 hours/week of countable activities.
  • If your youngest child is under six: 20 hours/week may satisfy federal participation.

Source: U.S. Office of Family Assistance – TANF work participation.

Colorado counties set your exact plan. “Countable” activities may include (not an exhaustive list):

  • Job search and job readiness
  • Work experience or subsidized employment
  • Vocational training and short‑term education linked to work
  • High school equivalency (if applicable)
  • Community service (if appropriate)
  • Caring for a newborn (limited period, ask about county policy)

Always ask for reasonable accommodations:

  • If you have a disability, are pregnant with medical limits, or caring for a disabled child, request a modified plan. Bring a doctor’s note if you can.
  • Domestic violence survivors can request a waiver or safe alternative activities. This is allowed under Colorado Works and federal TANF. For confidential help: The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your plan doesn’t fit your schedule or safety needs, request a case conference and a modification. Put your request in writing and keep a copy.
  • If your case is sanctioned, ask for “good cause” consideration and how to cure the sanction. See the Sanctions section below.

Sanctions: What Happens If You Miss Requirements

Action first: contact your worker as soon as you miss or expect to miss any required activity. Ask about good cause and how to fix it.

Sanctions reduce or stop your cash benefit if you don’t follow your plan without good cause. Examples of good cause:

  • Illness (you or your child)
  • Lack of child care or transportation
  • Domestic violence or safety issues
  • Emergency situations (court dates, crises)

Ask the county to explain:

  • What exactly you missed
  • What proof they need for good cause
  • How to “cure” the sanction and restore benefits

Official sources:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you disagree with a sanction, appeal right away (see Appeals below). While your appeal is pending, ask about getting benefits continued.
  • Ask a legal aid advocate to review your case: Colorado Legal Services.

Child Support Cooperation and “Good Cause”

Action first: if pursuing child support puts you at risk, tell your worker immediately and ask for a domestic violence “good cause” waiver.

Basic rule:

  • TANF generally requires cooperation with child support, unless you have good cause (like safety risks).
  • Colorado Child Support Services (CSS) is the state agency that handles support cases and can answer questions about cooperation, exemptions, and how support is handled while on TANF.

Official sources:

Reality checks:

  • If you’re safe to cooperate, doing so may help long term. If you’re not safe, waivers exist for a reason—use them.
  • Colorado has policies on what happens to child support payments when a family is on TANF. Ask your county to explain current “pass‑through” or assignment rules for your case, and get it in writing.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re told you must cooperate despite safety concerns, ask to speak to the county’s domestic violence liaison and provide any documents you’re comfortable sharing (protection order, police report, advocate letter, or your own statement).
  • For confidential safety planning: The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233).

Timelines: What to Expect After You Apply

Action first: check your PEAK account messages and mail often, and respond fast to any document requests.

Typical steps:

Step What happens Tips
Application submitted You get a confirmation (online, stamped paper, or mail). Keep your confirmation number or stamped copy.
Interview/orientation A worker reviews your situation and explains program rules. Ask for an interpreter if needed.
Employment plan You and the worker agree on a plan (activities, schedule, supports). Get a copy in writing.
Approval/denial notice You get a written notice explaining the decision. If approved, ask when benefits start and how you’ll get the EBT card.
EBT/Card setup Your cash is loaded to a benefits card (EBT) or direct deposit if available. For card details, see Colorado EBT – CDHS.

Processing times vary by county and case complexity. If you have an urgent need (eviction or utility shutoff), make sure you tell the worker and ask about emergency or diversion options.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you hear nothing for weeks, contact your county office via the CDHS county office locator, ask for a status check, and request same‑day help if you’ve received a document request or missed a notice.
  • If you’re denied and the notice is unclear, request a meeting to review the reason and your options. You can reapply or appeal.

Appeals and Fair Hearings

Action first: read your denial/sanction letter and file your appeal quickly if you disagree. Ask for benefits to continue while you appeal, if allowed.

Where to learn more and file:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your appeal is late, you may still have options if there was good cause (not receiving the notice, hospitalization, etc.). Ask anyway.
  • If you lose your hearing, you can reapply when your circumstances change.

Diversion/One‑Time Help: Stop a Crisis Without Monthly TANF

Action first: if one payment could fix the crisis (keep your job, secure child care for a start date, stop an eviction), ask your county about a diversion or one‑time payment.

Basics:

  • Diversion is a short‑term payment instead of monthly TANF. It can be used for urgent needs tied to keeping your family stable.
  • Counties set local rules (what situations qualify, maximums, and required follow‑up). Ask your county for a handout or policy reference.

Official sources:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If the county declines, ask what other emergency funds exist (local charity funds, housing assistance, utility help) and call 2‑1‑1 or visit 2‑1‑1 Colorado to search for emergency grants by ZIP code.

Keep Your Benefits: Reporting Changes and Reviews

Action first: open and read all mail from your county. Respond quickly to any request for verification.

Common events to report:

  • New job, change in hours, change in pay
  • Someone moves in or out
  • New address or phone
  • New childcare costs or transportation changes that affect your plan

Why act fast:

  • Delayed reporting can cause overpayments (you might have to pay back money). It can also lead to sanctions if the county thinks you’re not participating.

Official sources:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t get through by phone, upload your update in PEAK (if available for your change), or bring it to the office and ask for a date‑stamped copy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing the interview. If you can’t make it, call to reschedule. A “no‑show” can lead to denial.
  • Not telling your worker about safety issues. If you’re not safe to pursue child support or to attend an activity, say so and request good cause or a waiver.
  • Turning in an incomplete app and then waiting. Submit now, then upload documents fast through PEAK or at the office.
  • Not asking about diversion. A one‑time payment might solve your immediate problem and keep you off a time‑limited program.
  • Letting mail pile up. TANF notices start legal deadlines. Read and respond fast.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you hit repeated roadblocks, ask for a supervisor meeting or a case conference. Bring an advocate (friend, case manager, or legal aid) and your paperwork.

City‑Specific FAQs (Real‑World Help)

These FAQs emphasize where to apply and what’s different locally. Use the state directory to get exact addresses and office hours for each county.

Denver, CO (Denver County)

  • Where do I apply? Apply online through PEAK or in person at your local human services office. Use the CDHS county office locator to get Denver’s current address and office hours.
  • Any local tips? Denver can be busy. Arrive early if you go in person and bring all documents you have. Ask about same‑day scanning.
  • Plan B: If you can’t get through by phone, upload documents in PEAK, and ask for written confirmation at the front desk when you drop things off.

Colorado Springs, CO (El Paso County)

  • Where do I apply? Use PEAK or find in‑person details via the CDHS county office locator.
  • Any local tips? Parking and wait times can vary; ask for a “callback” option if offered.
  • Plan B: If you have an eviction notice, bring it. Ask specifically about a diversion/one‑time payment.

Aurora, CO (Arapahoe/Adams Counties)

  • Where do I apply? Apply online at PEAK. Aurora spans two counties; use your home address in the CDHS county office locator to find the correct office.
  • Any local tips? If you’re unsure which county serves your address, call 2‑1‑1 and ask for help locating the correct office.
  • Plan B: If one county directs you to the other, ask them to confirm which county has jurisdiction based on your address and to transfer your information.

Fort Collins, CO (Larimer County)

  • Where do I apply? PEAK or go in person using details from the CDHS county office locator.
  • Any local tips? Ask about transportation help to get to assigned work activities.
  • Plan B: If you miss an orientation, call the same day to reschedule and ask if there’s a video/online option.

Grand Junction, CO (Mesa County)

  • Where do I apply? Apply through PEAK or find local office info via the CDHS county office locator.
  • Any local tips? Rural distances can be tough. Ask about remote or phone appointments if travel is a problem.
  • Plan B: If child care is the barrier, tell your worker and request a modified plan or supportive services.

Diverse Communities: Tailored Tips and Official Resources

Action first: tell your worker about your specific needs and ask for accommodations. Colorado Works must consider safety, disability, and language access.

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers
    • You have the same rights to TANF and to a safe, respectful process. If you face discrimination, report it to the county and CDHS civil rights.
    • Community support: One Colorado (established statewide nonprofit for LGBTQ+ Coloradans).
  • Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children
    • Ask for reasonable accommodations and a modified work plan. Provide medical notes if you have them.
    • Legal help if needed: Colorado Legal Services.
  • Veteran single mothers
    • TANF eligibility is based on your household, not your service status. You may also qualify for veteran‑specific support.
    • Start at the Colorado Division of Veterans Affairs for benefits navigation and county Veteran Service Officers (official state site).
  • Immigrant and refugee single moms
  • Tribal‑specific resources
  • Rural single moms with limited access
    • Ask for phone/video appointments, document drop‑off options, and transportation help for assigned activities. If you have no internet, apply in person using the CDHS county office locator.
  • Single fathers
    • Colorado Works is for eligible caretakers—moms or dads. Apply using PEAK and ask for work supports.
  • Language access
    • Counties must provide free interpretation. Ask for an interpreter as soon as you check in. You can also request documents in your language.

Local Nonprofits, Charities, and Community Help

When TANF isn’t enough—or while you wait—these established nonprofits and hotlines can help:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If funds are out for the month, call 2‑1‑1 and ask which partners still have open slots. Ask about seasonal funds (LIHEAP for heat, local rental assistance, or county short‑term funds).

Resources by Region (Find Your Office Fast)

Use this state directory to get the exact address, phone, hours, and fax for your county:

Region/County Where to find official office info
Denver County CDHS county office locator
El Paso County CDHS county office locator
Arapahoe County CDHS county office locator
Adams County CDHS county office locator
Jefferson County CDHS county office locator
Boulder County CDHS county office locator
Larimer County CDHS county office locator
Weld County CDHS county office locator
Pueblo County CDHS county office locator
Mesa County CDHS county office locator

Tip: If your city spans more than one county (like Aurora), use your street address in the directory to confirm the right office.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t load the CDHS site, dial 2‑1‑1 and ask for your county human services office contact info. You can also apply by mail while you wait on website access—keep proof of mailing.

Side‑by‑Side: TANF Participation Activities You Can Ask For

Activity Type When it helps Proof counties often accept
Job search/readiness You’re ready to work but need help finding and applying. Appointment confirmations, job logs, workshop sign‑ins.
Work experience You need recent experience and references. County placement paperwork, supervisor timesheets.
Vocational training You need a short training/license to get hired. Enrollment letter, attendance records.
GED/High school completion You need a diploma/equivalency to move into training/work. School enrollment, progress reports.
Community service You need structure and a reference while searching for work. Agency timesheets/logs.
Parenting/newborn care After birth or in high‑risk pregnancy as permitted by county policy. Doctor’s note, birth record.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If the assigned activity won’t realistically help you get or keep work, ask to switch to one that fits (for example, training tied to a job opening). Request a case conference if needed.

What To Say If You Need Immediate Help (Scripts You Can Use)

  • “I’ve applied for Colorado Works today in PEAK. I have an eviction notice for next week. I’m asking for a diversion or immediate needs help. Can we review my documents today?”
  • “I can’t safely pursue child support. I’m requesting a good cause waiver due to domestic violence. Here is what I can provide today.”
  • “I can’t attend the 9 a.m. workshop because there’s no child care at that time. I’m requesting a schedule change and child care support tied to my plan.”
  • “This plan doesn’t match my medical restrictions. Here’s my doctor’s note. I’m requesting reasonable accommodations.”

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask for a supervisor and say: “I’m asking for a case conference today. Please note my request in the case record and give me a copy.”

Real‑World Examples (What Success Looks Like)

  • Work‑first with childcare: A mom in Fort Collins had a job offer but needed two weeks of child care to start. The county built a plan, issued transit passes, and coordinated temporary child care tied to her work activity. She kept the job and did not need long‑term cash assistance.
  • Domestic violence waiver: A Denver parent requested good cause to avoid child support cooperation after leaving an unsafe situation. The county set a confidential plan focused on housing and safety. Requirements were adjusted to avoid contact with the abuser.
  • Diversion to keep housing: A parent in Colorado Springs used a one‑time diversion payment to clear a past‑due utility bill that was blocking a lease renewal. The family avoided homelessness and did not need ongoing TANF.

All of these outcomes are allowed under Colorado Works when verified and documented. Always ask.

If Your Situation Changes

  • New job or hours? Report quickly so your plan can shift and to avoid overpayments.
  • Health or safety changes? Ask for a modified plan, good cause, or a temporary exemption.
  • Moving counties? Tell both counties. Benefits don’t automatically transfer; you may need to reapply in your new county.

Quick Reference Tables

Table: Where to Apply and Get Status Updates

Need Go here
Apply, upload, check messages Colorado PEAK
Find office address/phone CDHS county office locator
Program overview and participant info Colorado Works – CDHS
Child support rules and contact Colorado Child Support Services
Appeals process (state hearings) Colorado Office of Administrative Courts
EBT card information Colorado EBT – CDHS

Table: Federal TANF Rules That Matter in Colorado

Topic Key point Source
Lifetime limit Up to 60 months, with limited exceptions ACF TANF basics
Work hours (single parent) Around 30 hours/week; 20 hours/week if youngest child < age 6 ACF TANF work participation
Good cause/domestic violence Allowed; safety‑first waivers and adjusted plans ACF TANF basics
State/county flexibility Colorado counties can tailor services, diversions Colorado Works – CDHS

Table: Documents to Keep Handy

Document Why it matters
Photo ID and SSNs Identity and eligibility checks
Pay stubs or employer letter Verifies earnings
Lease/utility bills Confirms residency and costs
Birth certificates Confirms family composition
Medical notes (if any) Supports exemptions/accommodations
Court/protection orders Supports good cause/safety requests

Table: If You’re Denied or Sanctioned

Step Action
Read the notice Note the reason and the date mailed
Ask for a meeting Request a case review and plan change if needed
File an appeal Submit in writing; keep a copy
Get help Contact Colorado Legal Services and 2‑1‑1

Frequently Asked Questions (Colorado‑Specific)

  • Can I get TANF if I’m pregnant but the baby isn’t born yet?
    • Possibly. Colorado Works can cover certain pregnant people before birth depending on county rules. Apply in PEAK and ask your county to review your case. Program basics: Colorado Works – CDHS.
  • How long will it take?
    • Many cases are decided within weeks. Time varies by county. Check your PEAK account and mail often. Ask your worker for an estimated timeline right after your interview.
  • Will I have to attend classes or community service?
    • Likely, unless exempt. Your plan should be realistic and tied to work. Federal expectations are summarized at ACF TANF work participation. Ask for a change if the activity doesn’t fit your situation.
  • Do I have to cooperate with child support?
    • Generally yes, unless you have good cause. Colorado handles child support through Colorado Child Support Services. If cooperation isn’t safe, request a waiver.
  • Where can I see the actual rules?

What To Do If TANF Isn’t Enough

  • Apply for other supports you may qualify for in PEAK (food, medical, WIC). You can check options in Colorado PEAK.
  • Call 2‑1‑1 to find rent and utility funds, diapers, and transportation help in your ZIP code.
  • Ask your worker for referrals to local housing programs and family stabilization funds.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Colorado Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified August 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 48 hours.

Disclaimer

Program rules, dollar amounts, and procedures can change at any time. Always verify details with your county human services office and the official Colorado sites:

If you find outdated information here, please email us at info@asinglemother.org so we can correct it quickly.

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