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TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in Arizona

TANF Cash Assistance in Arizona: The No‑Nonsense Guide for Single Mothers

Last updated: August 2025

Arizona’s TANF program is called Cash Assistance (CA) and is run by the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES). This guide focuses on fast, practical steps to apply, get through the interview and verification, keep benefits, and avoid the most common mistakes. It also covers work rules, time limits, appeals, and backup options if Cash Assistance isn’t approved.


Arizona DES — Basic Needs Overview (official program hub) (accessed August 2025)

Apply or check status on Health-e-Arizona Plus (official application portal) (accessed August 2025)

Quick Help Box

What TANF Is in Arizona (Cash Assistance) — Start Here

Most important action: submit an application now if you think you might qualify. You can always withdraw later. The clock doesn’t start until you apply.

  • Apply online: Health‑e‑Arizona Plus (HEAplus) — Cash Assistance (accessed August 2025)
  • Apply with help: call HEAplus at 1-855-432-7587 (TTY 711) to ask questions while you apply. They can help you reset passwords, upload documents, and navigate the site. (accessed August 2025)
  • Apply in person or by paper: use the DES Office Locator to find a Family Assistance Administration (FAA) office. Ask for a Cash Assistance application and a stamped receipt when you turn it in. (accessed August 2025)
  • Track your case and upload documents in your HEAplus account after submitting the application. Set text/email alerts so you don’t miss interview calls. HEAplus Sign In (accessed August 2025)

Table: Where to apply and get help

Need Best option Official link
Apply right now Online application Health‑e‑Arizona Plus — Apply/Screen/Check status (accessed Aug 2025)
Phone help with HEAplus HEAplus Help Center 1-855-432-7587 (TTY 711) HEAplus Help (accessed Aug 2025)
In‑person help Locate DES offices DES Office Locator (accessed Aug 2025)
Program rules Policy manual index DES Cash Assistance Policy Manual (index) (accessed Aug 2025)

Reality check: benefits are modest, and verification can feel intrusive. But submitting a complete application with documents up front reduces delays.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If the site is down or you can’t get through by phone, go to a DES office the same day and ask for a paper application and a stamped receipt. Use the DES Office Locator (accessed August 2025).

Eligibility Snapshot (Arizona TANF / Cash Assistance)

Most important action: make sure there’s an eligible child in your home (or you’re a pregnant woman late in pregnancy if applicable under current policy) and you meet Arizona residency and immigration rules for the household members applying.

Table: Quick eligibility checklist

Factor What Arizona looks for Where to verify
Child in home Under 18 (or HS student under 19) DES Policy Manual (index)
Arizona resident Address in AZ DES — Basic Needs
Immigration status Citizen or “qualified noncitizen” USCIS — Public Charge
SSNs For those receiving CA (with exceptions) DES Policy Manual (index)
Income/resources Must be below current limit/payment standard HEAplus Screening Tool
Child support Must cooperate or show good cause DES DCSS — Overview

Note on exact dollar amounts: Arizona sets payment standards and income/resource rules in policy. These can change. Use the official HEAplus screening and your interview to confirm exact, current numbers for your household. If you need the written policy tables, ask your worker for the current “payment standards” and “need standards” from the DES policy manual. DES Policy Manual (index) (accessed August 2025)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If income looks slightly over, ask about “earned income disregards” and “Grant Diversion” (a one‑time lump‑sum alternative when you’re starting work). These are in the DES policy manual—ask your worker to check your eligibility using those rules. DES Policy Manual (index) (accessed August 2025)

Documents You’ll Need (Bring Them Up Front)

Most important action: upload or bring identity, income, and residence proof when you apply to avoid delays.

  • Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, tribal ID, or other identity proof)
  • Social Security numbers or proof you’ve applied for them (for anyone who will receive benefits)
  • Proof of Arizona residence (lease, utility bill, letter from landlord, or a statement if you’re doubled up)
  • Proof of income (last 4–8 weeks of pay stubs, employer letter, unemployment, child support received)
  • Proof of expenses that may count (childcare receipts, court‑ordered child support you pay, medical bills if relevant to deductions)
  • Birth certificates or proof of relationship for children in the home
  • School enrollment or immunization record if requested (Arizona enforces school attendance and immunization compliance for children in TANF; ask your worker for what’s required under current policy)
  • For immigrants: immigration documents for applicant members (lawful permanent resident card, I‑94, etc.)

Table: What to bring and where to get it

Item Where to get it Notes
Proof of ID AZ MVD, tribal office, prior employer records Bring any official photo ID you have
SSN SSA card or proof of application Applying for SSN is acceptable; don’t delay application
Proof of address Lease, utility bill, letter If no bills in your name, ask landlord or host for a letter
Income proof Pay stubs, employer letter, UI printout If paid cash, request a written statement from employer
Child proof Birth certs, school docs Ask school for printout; hospitals can provide birth records
Immigration docs USCIS notices, cards Non‑applicant parents can apply for citizen kids

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you can’t get a document quickly, tell your worker in writing. DES must help you obtain verification when it’s not reasonably available. Submit what you have now and keep the application moving. HEAplus Uploads (accessed August 2025)

How Benefits Are Calculated and Paid

Most important action: complete your interview and submit all verifications quickly. Your worker calculates eligibility using Arizona’s “payment standards” for your family size, minus countable income after disregards.

  • Arizona uses a payment standard by household size and compares it to your countable income. Your benefit (if any) is the difference up to the maximum for your family size. Ask your worker to show you the exact table used for your case. DES Policy Manual (index) (accessed August 2025)
  • Earned income disregards: Arizona disregards part of earned income. This helps working parents keep some Cash Assistance while earnings are low. Ask your worker to apply every applicable disregard before denying or closing your case. DES Policy Manual (index) (accessed August 2025)
  • Payment method: benefits are issued on an EBT card (same card used for SNAP if you also receive it). You can withdraw cash at ATMs or use it at stores that accept EBT Cash. Check your balance at ebtEDGE Cardholder Portal (accessed August 2025).
  • Timing: benefits are issued monthly after approval. A new EBT card generally arrives by mail within about a week after approval if you don’t already have one. If your case is approved and you don’t receive a card soon, contact your worker or the EBT card customer service listed on the approval notice. Arizona DES — Basic Needs (accessed August 2025)

Important: exact dollar amounts vary by family, income, and current policy. If you need the written figures, ask your worker for the “Payment Standards” page from the DES policy manual or check the HEAplus screening tool for the current numbers. HEAplus Screening (accessed August 2025)

Real‑world example

  • A mom with two kids starts a part‑time job. She reports her wages right away. DES applies earned income disregards, and her Cash Assistance drops but does not end. She uses EBT Cash to withdraw $40 at an in‑network ATM with no fee and spends the rest with her debit PIN at the store. (This is an example only; use your approval notice for your exact benefit.)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If the amount looks wrong, request a case review in writing and ask the worker to show the “budget” used (income counted, disregards applied, payment standard used). If still unresolved, you can appeal (see “Appeals” below). DES Office of Appeals (accessed August 2025)

Work Requirements (Jobs Program), Exemptions, and Sanctions

Most important action: if you get a message to contact the Jobs Program, call or show up by the deadline on the notice to avoid sanctions.

  • Federal baseline work hours for single parents in TANF: generally 30 hours/week, or 20 hours/week if you have a child under age 6. States implement these through their programs. Arizona’s Jobs Program will set your exact hours and activities in your Employment Plan. HHS Office of Family Assistance — TANF Work Participation (accessed August 2025)
  • Arizona’s Jobs Program includes activities like job search, GED/education, vocational training, and work experience. Ask for supportive services (bus passes, gas cards, tools, uniforms) if needed to participate. DES — Basic Needs > Employment Supports (accessed August 2025)
  • Good cause and exemptions: caregiving for a young infant, disability, domestic violence, or lack of childcare can lead to exemptions or a temporary deferral. If it’s not safe to pursue child support or participate fully, ask for a domestic violence good‑cause waiver. AZ Attorney General — Address Confidentiality Program (accessed August 2025)
  • Sanctions: if you miss required meetings or activities without good cause, Arizona can reduce your grant or close the case. Contact your Jobs coach immediately if something changes (illness, transportation, childcare collapse). DES Policy Manual (index) (accessed August 2025)

Table: Work rules and your options

Topic What to know Official source
Required hours Typically 30 hrs/week; 20 hrs/week if youngest child <6 HHS OFA — TANF Overview
Allowed activities Job search, work experience, education/GED, training DES — Basic Needs (Employment Supports)
Supportive services Ask Jobs Program for help with costs to participate DES — Basic Needs
Good‑cause waivers Domestic violence, lack of childcare, etc. AZ AG — ACP

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you’re sanctioned, request a conciliation/review and provide your proof (doctor’s note, childcare waitlist, police report, or your own sworn statement if that’s all you can safely provide). Ask to be re‑engaged in the Jobs Program as soon as you’re able. DES Policy Manual (index) (accessed August 2025)

Time Limits in Arizona

Most important action: ask your worker for your current “lifetime months used” before you make big decisions. Months do not always tick while you’re exempt, but confirm.

  • Arizona sets a lifetime limit on Cash Assistance months. Arizona’s lifetime limit has changed over the years and is shorter than or equal to the federal 60‑month maximum (states may set shorter limits). Do not assume you have 60 months in Arizona. Ask your worker for your exact remaining months. HHS — TANF Overview (accessed August 2025) and DES Policy Manual (index) (accessed August 2025)
  • Extensions: In some situations (disability, domestic violence, hardship), states can approve extensions or not count certain months. Ask in writing for a hardship review if you’re close to your limit. DES Policy Manual (index) (accessed August 2025)
  • Tribal TANF: If you live in a Tribal TANF service area and switch programs, time counting rules can be different. See “Tribal‑specific resources” below. ACF — Tribal TANF Directory (accessed August 2025)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you’re told you’ve hit the limit but you believe months were wrongly counted (for example, during an exemption), request a written month‑by‑month breakdown and ask for a supervisor review. You can also appeal. DES Office of Appeals (accessed August 2025)

After You Apply: Interviews, Timelines, and Getting Your EBT

Most important action: don’t miss the interview call. If you miss it, call right back the same day to reschedule.

  • Interview: DES will schedule a phone or in‑person interview. Bring or upload any missing paperwork. If your phone is unstable, go to a DES office for the interview. DES Office Locator (accessed August 2025)
  • Timelines: many cases are decided within a few weeks, but delays happen when documents are missing or employers are slow to verify. There isn’t a “same‑day” decision for TANF like there can be for SNAP Expedite. Watch your HEAplus account for messages. HEAplus (accessed August 2025)
  • EBT card: if approved and you don’t have an Arizona EBT card yet, one is mailed to your address on file. If your mail isn’t secure, ask your worker about safe alternatives. Check your balance or transactions at ebtEDGE Cardholder Portal (accessed August 2025).
  • Reporting changes: report changes within the deadline on your approval notice (often within 10 days). Do it on HEAplus, by phone, or in person, and keep proof you reported. HEAplus (accessed August 2025)

Table: Your post‑application timeline

Step What to do Where
Interview notice Answer or call back same day HEAplus — Messages
Upload verifications Use your phone camera HEAplus — Upload Center
Decision letter Read the fine print on duties and deadlines HEAplus + mail
EBT card arrival Call if card not received within expected mailing time ebtEDGE

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If your case is pending too long, message your worker in HEAplus and follow up at 1-855-432-7587 (TTY 711). If mail is unreliable, switch to notices by text/email in HEAplus and pick up mail at a stable address (trusted friend, P.O. Box if possible). HEAplus (accessed August 2025)

Child Support Cooperation (and Safety)

Most important action: if it’s not safe to cooperate with child support, tell DES right away and ask for “good cause” due to domestic violence or safety risks.

  • Arizona requires cooperation with the Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) unless you have good cause. Arizona DCSS — Program Overview (accessed August 2025)
  • Good cause examples: a protective order, police report, or a written statement explaining safety risks. If you’re not ready to share documents, talk to your worker about the process and safety options first. AZ Attorney General — Address Confidentiality Program (accessed August 2025)
  • If you already have a child support order, report what you receive. If you pay a court‑ordered amount for a child outside your home, provide proof—it can affect your Cash Assistance budget. DES Policy Manual (index) (accessed August 2025)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you’re sanctioned for “non‑cooperation” but had a safety reason, file for good cause immediately and ask to lift the sanction. Put it in writing and keep a copy. DES DCSS (accessed August 2025)

Appeals and Your Rights

Most important action: if you disagree with a decision, appeal in writing right away. You do not need a lawyer to appeal.

  • You have the right to a fair hearing. Deadlines are printed on your notice—submit your appeal as soon as possible to be safe. DES — Office of Appeals (accessed August 2025)
  • Keep benefits going: in some cases, if you appeal before the effective closure date, your benefits may continue until the hearing decision. Ask your worker about “aid continuing.” DES — Office of Appeals (accessed August 2025)
  • How to file: follow the instructions on your notice, submit via HEAplus message center, mail/fax to the address listed, or hand‑deliver to a DES office and request a stamped copy. DES Office Locator (accessed August 2025)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you can’t resolve it locally, ask for a supervisor call‑back, then file an appeal. For free legal advice, contact your local legal aid via Arizona 2‑1‑1 — Legal Help (accessed August 2025).

If Cash Assistance Isn’t Approved: Plan B Options

Most important action: apply for the other supports you qualify for. These often approve faster and free up cash for essential bills.

  • Nutrition Assistance (SNAP): apply on HEAplus. For maximum allotments and income limits, check the current federal/state tables on HEAplus; amounts change yearly. Check USDA FNS — SNAP State Directory (accessed August 2025) and HEAplus for current amounts.
  • AHCCCS (Medicaid): medical coverage for parents and kids. Apply on HEAplus. See program details at AHCCCS — Eligibility (accessed August 2025). Income limits change yearly; check the AHCCCS page for current amounts.
  • DES Child Care Assistance: helps pay for child care so you can work or attend the Jobs Program. See DES — Child Care Assistance (accessed August 2025). Copays and rates vary; ask for the current rate chart.
  • WIC for women, infants, and children: nutrition for pregnant/postpartum moms and young kids. See Arizona WIC (AZDHS) (accessed August 2025). Use their clinic finder.
  • Utility assistance (LIHEAP and crisis programs): see DES — Utility Assistance (accessed August 2025) and county providers via 2‑1‑1 Arizona (accessed August 2025). Amounts vary by county and season—check current availability.
  • Housing and eviction prevention: see the Arizona Department of Housing (accessed August 2025) for state programs and links to local housing authorities.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you’re over income by a small amount for Cash Assistance, ask about Grant Diversion, short‑term non‑recurring benefits, and supportive services through the Jobs Program.

Local Organizations, Charities, and Support

Most important action: call 2‑1‑1 to get a live list of agencies serving your zip code today.

Table: Key contacts and hubs

Help type Organization Link
State benefits Arizona DES — Basic Needs DES — Basic Needs
Apply/manage case Health‑e‑Arizona Plus HEAplus
Child support DES — DCSS DCSS — Overview
Medicaid AHCCCS AHCCCS Eligibility
WIC AZDHS Arizona WIC
Utilities/rent 2‑1‑1 and CAAs 2‑1‑1 Arizona, Wildfire AZ — Find Help

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If agencies say funds are out, ask when they re‑open, join the waitlist, and call 2‑1‑1 again to get additional providers you can try.

Diverse Communities: Tailored Notes and Resources

Most important action: tell your worker if your family has special needs or circumstances. Many rules have exceptions or supports.

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: You can request respectful, safe services and name/gender preferences. For inclusive community support, 2‑1‑1 can filter programs by population served. 2‑1‑1 Arizona (accessed August 2025)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child: Ask about exemptions from work rules, reasonable accommodations, and referrals to the DES Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) when applicable. DES — Developmental Disabilities (accessed August 2025)
  • Veteran single mothers: Connect with the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services for benefits, employment help, and crisis support. ADVS — Benefits & Services (accessed August 2025)
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: You may apply for your U.S. citizen children even if you’re not applying for yourself. TANF eligibility for noncitizens follows federal rules for “qualified noncitizens.” TANF is not considered under the current federal “public charge” test for most immigrants. Review the official guidance: USCIS — Public Charge Resources (accessed August 2025). If unsure, speak to a qualified immigration advisor.
  • Tribal‑specific resources: Many tribes operate Tribal TANF with different rules. If you’re within a tribal service area, you may qualify through your Tribal TANF office instead of (or in addition to) state TANF. See the federal directory and contact your tribe: ACF — Tribal TANF Directory (accessed August 2025).
  • Rural single moms with limited access: If you lack internet, ask DES for phone or in‑person options. Uploads can be done from a smartphone using data or at libraries. If mail is unreliable, use a stable mailing address and switch to HEAplus electronic notices. HEAplus (accessed August 2025)
  • Single fathers: Arizona Cash Assistance is available to eligible single fathers and kin caregivers, too. Same rules apply. DES — Basic Needs (accessed August 2025)
  • Language access: Ask DES for a free interpreter. HEAplus supports multiple languages online; TTY users can call 711. HEAplus (accessed August 2025)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you face discrimination or can’t get language services, ask for a supervisor and file a civil rights complaint through DES. Use the DES Office Locator to connect in person (accessed August 2025).

City‑Specific FAQs (Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, Yuma, Flagstaff)

Most important action for all cities: apply on HEAplus and use the DES office locator for nearest in‑person help.

  • Phoenix (Maricopa County): Where can I get in‑person help today?
    Use the DES Office Locator to find the Family Assistance office nearest to your zip code. For rent/utilities, check City of Phoenix and county Community Action via 2‑1‑1 Arizona (accessed August 2025).
  • Tucson (Pima County): How do I get help with transportation for the Jobs Program?
    At your Jobs Program orientation, ask for bus passes or gas cards if needed to participate. If you’re waiting, ask a DES worker to note the delay. DES — Basic Needs (accessed August 2025).
  • Mesa (East Valley): My phone keeps dropping. Will I miss my interview?
    Go to a DES office on the day of your scheduled interview and ask to complete it on site. Bring your interview notice and IDs. DES Office Locator (accessed August 2025).
  • Yuma (Yuma County): Are there local nonprofits that can help with documents?
    Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for help with IDs, birth certificates, and notary services. Many Yuma agencies listed on 2‑1‑1 can assist. 2‑1‑1 Arizona (accessed August 2025).
  • Flagstaff (Coconino County): What if winter weather delays my appointment?
    Message your worker in HEAplus, request a new date, and explain the conditions. If the office is closed, rescheduling won’t hurt your case. HEAplus (accessed August 2025)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing the interview call and waiting for them to call back. Call HEAplus at 1-855-432-7587 (TTY 711) or go to a DES office the same day to reschedule. HEAplus (accessed August 2025)
  • Uploading unreadable photos. Use good lighting; take straight‑on pictures; include full page corners; re‑check the image before submitting.
  • Not reporting new income within the deadline on your notice. Report changes on HEAplus right away and keep the confirmation number. HEAplus (accessed August 2025)
  • Skipping the Jobs Program orientation because childcare fell through—without telling them. Ask for a reschedule and note the reason in writing. Request supportive services.
  • Not asking for a domestic violence good‑cause waiver when you need it. Tell your worker as soon as it’s safe to do so. AZ AG — ACP (accessed August 2025)
  • Assuming you have 60 months of TANF. Arizona’s lifetime limit is shorter than or equal to the federal 60‑month cap. Ask your worker for your remaining balance. HHS OFA — TANF Overview (accessed August 2025)

Realistic Timelines and What to Expect

  • Day 0–1: Application submitted on HEAplus. Set your notifications to text/email. HEAplus (accessed August 2025)
  • Days 1–10: Interview scheduled and completed. Upload identity and income proofs. If employer verification is needed, respond quickly to any follow‑up.
  • Days 10–30 (often): Case decision. If approved, benefits are loaded to EBT monthly. Card arrives by mail if you don’t already have one. ebtEDGE (accessed August 2025)
  • If delayed: Message your worker in HEAplus and call 1-855-432-7587 (TTY 711). Go in person if you can. DES Office Locator (accessed August 2025)

Practical Tips for a Smoother Approval

  • Submit a complete packet on day one: identity, address, income, and child proof.
  • Put explanations in writing: if you can’t get a document, upload a note explaining what you tried and when.
  • Keep a simple “benefits folder”: your ID copies, pay stubs, approvals, and any messages.
  • Tell the worker about upcoming changes: job start date, hours, or a move.
  • Ask for supportive services: if you can’t attend Jobs activities without childcare, transportation, or uniforms/tools, say so and ask in writing.

Resources by Region (How to Find Local Help Fast)

Most important action: call 2‑1‑1 for real‑time openings and appointments in your county.

  • Maricopa County (Phoenix metro): request Community Action appointments for rent/utilities via 2‑1‑1 Arizona and check Wildfire AZ — Find Help (accessed August 2025)
  • Pima County (Tucson): use 2‑1‑1 for local agencies. Food: Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona (accessed August 2025)
  • Yuma, Mohave, La Paz (western counties): look for cooling assistance and LIHEAP through CAAs listed on 2‑1‑1 (summer months fill up fast). 2‑1‑1 Arizona (accessed August 2025)
  • Northern Arizona (Coconino, Navajo, Apache): check for Tribal TANF in your area using the ACF Tribal TANF Directory (accessed August 2025), plus county CAAs via 2‑1‑1.

Tables You Can Save

Table: Must‑know contacts

Purpose Contact Link
Apply/Manage Case HEAplus — 1-855-432-7587 (TTY 711) Health‑e‑Arizona Plus
Find an office DES Office Locator DES Locations
Program rules DES Policy Manual (index) DBME FAA Policy Manual
Child support DCSS DES — Child Support
EBT balance ebtEDGE Portal ebtEDGE
General help 2‑1‑1 Arizona 2‑1‑1

Table: Your application checklist

Step Do this Proof to attach
Submit app HEAplus application Photo ID, SSN (or application)
Interview Answer call or go in person Pay stubs, employer contact
Child in home Add all kids on app Birth certs, school docs
Report income Upload stubs ASAP Last 4–8 weeks stubs
Track results Check HEAplus messages Save notices and confirmations

Table: Work rules at a glance

Situation Typical hours What to request
Youngest child under 6 ~20 hrs/week Childcare help; schedule flexibility
All kids 6 or older ~30 hrs/week Bus pass/gas card; training options
Domestic violence/safety Exemption or good cause Waiver + safety plan
Disability (parent/child) Exemption or modified plan Reasonable accommodation

Table: When to ask for help from your worker

Problem What to ask for How
Can’t get document Help obtaining verification HEAplus message + office visit
No childcare Temporary deferral + child care referral Jobs Program orientation
Unsafe to pursue child support Good cause waiver Tell DES/DCSS in writing
Near lifetime limit Hardship review Ask for month‑by‑month count

Table: Backup programs if CA is denied

Need Program Where to apply
Food SNAP HEAplus
Kids/parents health AHCCCS AHCCCS — Eligibility
Infant/child nutrition WIC AZ WIC
Utilities/rent LIHEAP/CAAs 2‑1‑1 Arizona
Job search help DES Employment Services DES — Basic Needs

“What If” Scenarios (Real‑World Examples)

  • I started a job after applying.
    Report your start date and expected hours/pay through HEAplus. Ask the worker to re‑budget using earned income disregards so you don’t lose more than necessary. HEAplus (accessed August 2025)
  • The other parent sometimes gives me cash.
    Report what you receive. If it’s irregular, note that in writing. Your worker must use the correct averaging method from DES policy. DES Policy Manual (index) (accessed August 2025)
  • I can’t get birth certificates for my kids right now.
    Tell your worker. DES must help obtain verification when it’s not reasonably available. In the meantime, provide school or medical records listing parent/child names. DES Policy Manual (index) (accessed August 2025)
  • I’m not safe sharing the other parent’s info.
    Ask for a good‑cause waiver and the Address Confidentiality Program. You do not have to put yourself or your kids at risk to get help. AZ AG — ACP (accessed August 2025)

What to Do Each Month to Keep Benefits

  • Keep pay stubs and upload when asked.
  • Report changes within the deadline on your notice (often 10 days). HEAplus (accessed August 2025)
  • Attend Jobs Program activities or communicate if something changes.
  • Make sure your mailing address, phone, and email in HEAplus are current.

What to Do if You Move, Separate, or Reunite

  • Moving within Arizona: update your address in HEAplus right away to prevent lost mail and missed appointments. HEAplus (accessed August 2025)
  • Moving out of state: Arizona Cash Assistance ends if you’re no longer a resident. Apply in your new state as soon as you can.
  • Separation/reunification: update household members in HEAplus. Child entering/leaving the home affects eligibility. HEAplus (accessed August 2025)

If You’re a Kin Caregiver or Foster/Kinship

  • If you’re caring for a child who isn’t your biological child, you may qualify as a relative caregiver. Ask DES about a “child‑only” Cash Assistance case (benefit is based only on the child’s needs). DES Policy Manual (index) (accessed August 2025)
  • If the child is in foster care, ask the caseworker about kinship stipends and whether a child‑only TANF benefit is appropriate.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If told you can’t apply as a caregiver, ask for the DES policy citation and request a supervisor review. Bring any court or placement documents you have.

Plan C: Stabilizing Cash Flow While You Wait

  • Talk to your landlord: ask for a payment plan in writing.
  • Utilities: ask for a payment extension and a medical accommodation if someone in the home needs power for health reasons.
  • Cell/internet: ask providers for hardship plans.
  • Local support: faith‑based and community groups listed on 2‑1‑1 Arizona can help with gas cards, diapers, and formula (accessed August 2025).

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS, Office of Family Assistance), AHCCCS, Arizona Department of Health Services (WIC), and established nonprofits like 2‑1‑1 Arizona and Wildfire Arizona.

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, payment standards, time limits, and income/resource limits change. Always confirm current details with the Arizona DES and your caseworker. Use the official sites for the most up‑to‑date information:

This content is for general information and does not replace official agency directions or legal advice. If you receive a notice with a different rule, follow your notice and contact DES immediately.

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