Menu

TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in Arkansas

The Ultimate Guide to TANF (TEA) for Single Mothers in Arkansas

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help (scan this first)

What is TANF in Arkansas? Start Here

Action first: If you need cash assistance, start your application online through ACCESS Arkansas or go to your county DHS office. Your benefit, if approved, starts from the date you submit your application. Use Arkansas DHS — Homepage (navigate to Apply for Services).


Arkansas runs TANF under the name TEA — Transitional Employment Assistance. TEA is cash aid for very low-income families with children. It combines a monthly cash benefit with required work activities and support services (like job search help and child care eligibility). Arkansas also runs a companion program called Work Pays, a time-limited cash incentive for families who leave TEA and start working.

  • TEA helps while you’re preparing for or moving into work.
  • Work Pays helps you stabilize income after you get a job.

Official program information: U.S. HHS Office of Family Assistance — TANF overview and Arkansas Department of Human Services.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If the DHS website overwhelms you or you can’t get through, go in person to your county DHS office and ask to apply that day.
  • If you can’t find the correct office page, call 211 and ask for your nearest DHS county office location and hours.
  • If your situation is unsafe (domestic violence, stalking), talk to a DV advocate at 800-799-7233 before your appointment. You may qualify for “good cause” exemptions that change your work rules.

TEA vs. Work Pays vs. Child-Only TANF (At a Glance)

Use this quick comparison to decide your path. TEA and Work Pays are related but not the same.

Program Who it’s for Cash assistance period Work rules Time limit counts? Where to apply
TEA (Transitional Employment Assistance) Parents or caregivers with a minor child, very low income Monthly cash while meeting program rules; time-limited Yes — work activities, unless exempt or “good cause” applies Yes — Arkansas imposes a lifetime limit (see “Time Limits” below) Arkansas DHS — Apply for Services
Work Pays Former TEA families who start a job and meet income/employment rules Monthly post-employment incentive for a limited period (commonly up to 12 months) Must maintain eligible employment Does not reduce federal TANF time limit while on Work Pays (review DHS policy) Arkansas DHS — Program details via DHS homepage
Child-Only TANF When only the child is eligible (non-parent relative caregiver, or parent is ineligible) Monthly cash for the child’s needs Generally no adult work requirement Adult time limit usually does not apply to the child-only case Arkansas DHS — Apply for Services

Sources:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re unsure which program you fit, submit a TEA application now. DHS will screen you for child-only TANF or Work Pays as appropriate.
  • If you recently started a job and left TEA, ask specifically about Work Pays during your DHS interview.

Who Qualifies for TEA in Arkansas

Action first: Apply even if you’re not 100% sure you qualify. Many families underestimate eligibility. Start here: Arkansas DHS — Apply for Services.

Common eligibility rules (Arkansas-specific rules are set in state policy and can change; always verify with DHS):

  • You must live in Arkansas and have a minor child in the home (or be pregnant).
  • Household income must be very low. Arkansas applies state TEA income tests. For current income limits by household size, check the TEA eligibility section on the Arkansas DHS website or ask your county office.
  • Some assets may be counted (vehicles, bank accounts), with certain exclusions. For current resource rules, check the TEA policy materials on the Arkansas DHS website.
  • You must cooperate with child support enforcement for your child, unless you have “good cause” (for example, risk of domestic violence). DHS will explain “good cause” and what documentation is needed.
  • Work participation is required unless you qualify for an exemption (such as a verified medical condition, caring for a household member with a disability, or an approved domestic violence good-cause waiver).
  • Citizenship/immigration: A child must be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen to receive TEA. Parents may be ineligible but still apply on behalf of eligible children (child-only TANF). DHS will explain acceptable documentation.

Official sources:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your income is slightly above TEA limits, apply anyway and ask about other programs during the interview (SNAP, Medicaid/ARKids, child care assistance). SNAP and health coverage rules differ and you may still qualify. See USDA SNAP — official site and ASPE Poverty Guidelines — official resource.
  • If you’re a grandparent or other relative caring for a child, ask specifically about “child-only TANF” if you are not eligible as an adult but the child is.

How Much Cash Does TEA Pay?

Action first: Ask your caseworker or county office for the current “TEA Payment Standard” by family size and the calculation method, or check Arkansas DHS program materials online for the latest amounts: Arkansas Department of Human Services.

  • TEA payment levels vary by household size and are set by Arkansas DHS policy. Benefits may be reduced based on countable income. Some earned income may be “disregarded” (not counted) to encourage work.
  • Child-only TANF payment levels differ from parent-included TEA payments.
  • Benefit amounts can change through state policy updates, so always confirm the current dollar amount for your family size with your county office at the time you apply.

Official source: Arkansas Department of Human Services. For a national context (policy authority), see U.S. HHS OFA — TANF.

Real-world example:

  • “K.” in Jonesboro applied for TEA with two children and a part-time job. DHS applied an earned-income disregard to part of her wages, which kept her within TEA limits and provided a small monthly cash grant. That cash, combined with SNAP and child care assistance, covered her kids’ needs while she increased her work hours.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your TEA benefit is lower than expected, ask for an explanation of the calculation in writing and what part of your income was counted. Request a supervisor review if something seems off.
  • If you weren’t included as an adult but your child was, ask if this is a “child-only” case and why (immigration, sanction, or other reason) so you can plan next steps.

Time Limits and Extensions

Action first: At your interview, ask the caseworker how many months you have used on your TEA “clock” and how many remain. Keep this written down.

  • Arkansas places a lifetime limit on TEA cash assistance. If you have a prior TEA history (even in another county), those months likely count.
  • Some months might not count if you’re in certain exempt statuses or participating under special rules. Confirm with DHS.
  • Work Pays, the post-employment program, is separate. Confirm with DHS how Work Pays months interact with your TEA time limit.

Sources:

Reality check:

  • If you’re close to the TEA limit, discuss extensions or alternative support right away. Extensions are rare and must meet strict criteria (for example, verified domestic violence, medical hardship, or caregiving for a disabled family member).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

How to Apply for TEA (Step-by-Step)

Action first: Submit your application now — this protects your start date. Use ACCESS Arkansas through the DHS homepage: Arkansas DHS — Apply for Services.

  • Online: Apply via ACCESS Arkansas (link available from DHS homepage). You can upload documents from your phone.
  • In person: Go to your county DHS office and ask to apply for TEA. Bring IDs and as many documents as you can (see checklist below). If you can’t bring everything, you can still start the application.
  • By mail: Ask your county office for a paper application and return it with copies of your documents. Use certified mail if possible and keep the receipt.
  • Keep proof: Save screenshots, fax receipts, or stamped copies of whatever you submit.

Where to go:

  • DHS homepage with links to apply and county offices: Arkansas Department of Human Services.
  • If you can’t find the right page or have a disability/transport barrier, dial 211 to locate office hours, transportation assistance, or organizations that help with applications.

What happens next:

  • DHS schedules an interview (phone or in person). Be ready to discuss household members, income, expenses, work history, child support cooperation, and any barriers (health, safety, transportation, child care).
  • If you’re employed or starting work, ask about Work Pays during the interview.
  • If you’re fleeing violence or have safety concerns, ask about “good cause” and exemption options.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your ACCESS Arkansas login isn’t working, apply in person at your county office and ask staff to note the technical issue.
  • If you miss a call from DHS, call back immediately to reschedule. Ask for written confirmation of the new appointment.
  • If you don’t hear back within a reasonable time, visit the county office in person with your documents to check status.

Documents Checklist (Bring What You Have)

Use this as a pack-and-go list. Don’t wait for every single paper — submit the application and then add documents.

Category Examples of what to bring Tips
Identity Government photo ID, birth certificate If you don’t have an ID, bring any official mail and ask DHS for help verifying identity.
Social Security SSNs for you and kids (if available) You can apply for kids’ SSNs if missing; ask DHS how to proceed.
Residency Lease, utility bill, official mail Homeless? Explain your situation; DHS can verify address with a shelter or relative.
Income Pay stubs (last 30 days), employer letter, child support received, unemployment notice If your hours vary, bring as many recent pay stubs as possible.
Expenses (if asked) Child care bills, rent, utilities, medical bills Keep receipts in a folder for quick access.
Child support Paternity info, court orders If unsafe, tell DHS you want to claim “good cause” due to domestic violence.
Medical (if claiming exemption) Doctor’s note, disability paperwork Ask your provider to state functional limits and expected duration.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t get something (like a missing birth certificate), submit the application and tell your worker what’s missing. DHS can guide you on alternatives.
  • If an employer won’t provide a letter, ask DHS if pay stubs alone are enough or whether a DHS verification form can be faxed to the employer.

Typical TEA Application Timeline (What to Expect)

Every county aims to process applications promptly, but timing depends on appointments, document returns, and workload.

Stage What happens Your move
Day you apply You get an application date (protects start date if approved) Keep your receipt or confirmation page
Interview scheduled Phone or in-person appointment is set Answer calls from unknown numbers; reschedule promptly if you miss it
Document follow-up DHS requests any missing information Turn in items quickly; ask for a list of exactly what’s missing
Decision You receive a written notice by mail or via your online account Read it immediately; it explains approval/denial and appeal rights
First payment If approved, first payment is issued after setup Ask how you’ll receive funds (EBT/direct deposit) and when to expect them

Source: Process steps based on Arkansas DHS program administration. See Arkansas Department of Human Services.

Reality check:

  • Delays are common when phone interviews are missed or documents arrive late. Showing up at the county office can speed things up if calls aren’t working.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your application seems stuck, go to your county office with your receipts and ask for a same-day status check. If needed, request a supervisor.
  • If an urgent financial crisis is happening (eviction, utilities shutoff notice), bring proof. Ask about any emergency help or referrals.

Work Requirements, Exemptions, and Good Cause

Action first: Be honest about barriers in your interview. The sooner DHS documents a barrier (transport, child care, domestic violence, health), the more flexible your plan can be.

  • Work participation usually includes job search, job readiness classes, training, education, or employment. Hours and activity options are set by DHS and federal rules.
  • Exemptions and “good cause” may apply for domestic violence, medical issues, or caregiving responsibilities. You must tell DHS and provide proof when requested.
  • If child care is needed for you to comply, tell your worker. TEA families receive priority access to child care assistance through DHS’s child care subsidy program, subject to rules and funding. Check Arkansas DHS — Child Care Assistance for eligibility and how to apply.
  • Transportation help may be available through DHS-contracted services or local Workforce Centers. Ask your TEA worker to connect you to the nearest Arkansas Division of Workforce Services.

Official references:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If a requirement doesn’t match your reality (no child care, health limits, unsafe situation), ask for a different activity or an exemption. Put the request in writing and keep a copy.
  • If you receive a sanction notice, act quickly. Fix the issue, provide proof, and ask how to cure the sanction as soon as possible.

Sanctions: What Triggers Them and How to Fix It

Sanctions happen when a required activity isn’t met without good cause. Here’s how to stay ahead.

Situation What DHS looks for How to fix it
Missed appointment or class Did you call to reschedule? Was there a barrier like illness or no child care? Contact DHS immediately, explain, and ask to reschedule. Provide proof (doctor note, child care waitlist).
Not enough work hours Are you in the right activity? Is transport/child care the issue? Ask to modify your plan or add supports. Get changes in writing.
Child support cooperation Is there a safety issue? Did you apply for good cause? If DV is involved, tell DHS and bring documentation. Ask for a good-cause review.
Document not returned Did DHS request something unclear? Ask for the exact form/verification needed and a new due date. Keep a copy of everything.

Source: TANF sanction framework under federal law with state-specific procedures. See U.S. HHS OFA — TANF and Arkansas DHS.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re sanctioned and your case closed, ask how to cure the sanction and reapply. If the decision seems wrong, request a fair hearing by the deadline on your notice.
  • For advocacy, call 211 to locate legal aid or a benefits navigator in your area.

Work Pays: Post-Employment Incentive

Action first: If you recently started a job after TEA, ask DHS about Work Pays immediately. It’s time-limited; you don’t want to miss the window.

  • Work Pays provides a monthly cash incentive for families who leave TEA due to employment and meet the income rules. It’s designed to keep your budget stable while you hold the job.
  • You must maintain eligible employment and comply with any ongoing reporting.
  • Ask whether Work Pays months count toward your TEA time limit (state policy governs this).

Find the latest rules and application process via Arkansas Department of Human Services. National program background: U.S. HHS OFA — TANF.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If Work Pays isn’t available or you no longer qualify, ask about SNAP, WIC, Medicaid/ARKids, child care subsidy, and Workforce Center services. See USDA SNAP and ASPE Poverty Guidelines for income references used by many programs.

Related Supports That Often Come with TEA

Action first: During your TEA interview, say you also want to be evaluated for SNAP, Medicaid/ARKids, and child care assistance.

  • SNAP (food assistance): Many TEA families also qualify for SNAP. Apply at the same time through DHS. Official info: USDA SNAP — official site. For Arkansas application, start via Arkansas DHS — Apply.
  • Medicaid/ARKids: Most children in TEA families qualify for ARKids (children’s Medicaid). Adults may qualify for Medicaid coverage depending on income and category. Start with Arkansas DHS.
  • Child Care Assistance: TEA families have priority access when funding allows. Learn more via the DHS child care pages: Arkansas DHS.
  • Workforce Support: Job search, training, and education activities through Arkansas Division of Workforce Services.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re denied one benefit, you might still qualify for others. Ask DHS to screen you across programs.
  • If SNAP or child care is delayed, go to your county office with your documents. For food in the meantime, dial 211 to find a pantry near you.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting to apply until every document is perfect. Apply now; upload missing items later.
  • Missing phone calls from DHS. Answer unknown numbers while your case is pending.
  • Not telling DHS about barriers. If you can’t comply (no child care, health issue), say so right away.
  • Ignoring child support cooperation notices. If it’s unsafe, request “good cause” and bring proof.
  • Not keeping copies. Photograph everything you submit and save confirmations.
  • Letting mail pile up. Read every notice the day it arrives.
  • Assuming you don’t qualify because you’re working part-time. Earned-income disregards may apply; ask your worker.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you made a mistake, fix it fast and tell your worker. Ask how to cure sanctions or resubmit documents. If you disagree with a decision, request a fair hearing by the deadline on your notice.

City-Specific FAQs (Arkansas)

These are practical, local questions families ask. For in-person help at a DHS office, use the DHS homepage to locate the county office that serves your city: Arkansas Department of Human Services. If you can’t find the page, dial 211.

Little Rock, AR (Pulaski County)

  • Where do I apply today? Apply online via ACCESS Arkansas (from the DHS homepage). For in-person help, go to the Pulaski County DHS office. If you can’t find the address online, call 211 for directions.
  • How long will it take? It varies. Submit your application immediately and ask for an interview date before leaving the office.
  • Can I get help with resumes and job leads? Yes — visit a Workforce Center via Arkansas Division of Workforce Services.
  • What if I’m fleeing violence? Tell DHS you need a good-cause waiver and call 800-799-7233.
  • Plan B if I’m denied? Ask about child-only TANF, SNAP, ARKids, and child care assistance. Appeal if you think the decision is wrong.

Fort Smith, AR (Sebastian County)

  • Is there in-person help? Yes. Use the DHS homepage to find the county office. Bring IDs and any pay stubs you have.
  • Are there job training programs nearby? Check the Workforce Center through Arkansas Division of Workforce Services.
  • What if I don’t have a printer? Apply online and upload photos of documents from your phone.
  • Plan B: If TEA isn’t an option, ask DHS to screen for SNAP, ARKids, and child care. Call 211 for local nonprofits that can help with utilities/food.

Fayetteville/Springdale, AR (Washington/Benton Counties)

  • Can I apply if I’m working part-time? Yes, apply. Earned-income disregards may help you qualify.
  • Child care is my barrier — what now? Tell your worker. TEA families get priority for child care subsidies (subject to funding). See Arkansas DHS.
  • Transportation? Ask your worker about transportation assistance and Workforce Center options.
  • Plan B: If TEA is denied, ask about Work Pays (if you recently started a job), SNAP, and ARKids.

Jonesboro, AR (Craighead County)

  • My hours at work change every week. Will I be denied? Not automatically. Bring several recent pay stubs so DHS can average income.
  • How do I track deadlines? Check your online account daily after you apply and open every piece of mail right away.
  • Plan B: If TEA is not a fit, ask about child-only TANF, SNAP, ARKids, and workforce training.

Pine Bluff, AR (Jefferson County)

  • I need an appointment quickly. What can I do? Apply online and go to the county office with your confirmation. Ask for an interview as soon as possible.
  • I don’t feel safe dealing with child support. Tell DHS you want to claim good cause and contact 800-799-7233 for safety planning.
  • Plan B: If TEA won’t work, ask for screening into SNAP, ARKids, child care assistance, and Workforce Center services.

Real-World Examples (What It Looks Like)

  • Example 1: “S.” in Fort Smith missed her first TEA interview because the call came from an unknown number. She went to the county office the next morning with her documents, rescheduled, and was approved after submitting two more pay stubs.
  • Example 2: “P.” in Pine Bluff left TEA for a part-time job at a grocery store. She asked about Work Pays during her exit meeting. The post-employment cash incentive helped her pay for gas and uniforms while she added hours.
  • Example 3: “A.” in Little Rock is a grandmother caring for her 8-year-old grandson. She applied for child-only TANF since her income was too high for an adult case. The child-only grant helped with school clothes and bus fare.

Diverse Communities: Tailored Notes and Resources

Action first: Tell DHS about your family’s situation (disability, DV, tribal membership, veteran status, language needs). This can change what is required and what services you can get.

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: TEA eligibility is about income, household, and state rules — not sexual orientation or gender identity. If you face discrimination or harassment, document it and request a different worker. For DV-related good cause, contact 800-799-7233.
  • Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child: Ask about exemptions, good cause, and reasonable accommodations. Bring medical documentation. Explore SSI/SSDI eligibility at Social Security Administration — Official site.
  • Veteran single mothers: You can apply for TEA and also seek VA benefits, employment help, and child care resources through the VA. Start at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
  • Immigrant/refugee single mothers: Children may qualify even if a parent does not. Ask DHS to explain eligible noncitizen categories and documentation. DHS must provide interpreters upon request.
  • Tribal-specific resources: Some tribes operate their own Tribal TANF. If you or your child are members of a federally recognized tribe, ask whether you are in a Tribal TANF service area. Learn more: ACF — Tribal TANF Overview.
  • Rural single moms with limited transportation: Ask for phone interviews, document uploads by mobile, and transportation assistance for approved activities. Workforce Centers may offer virtual options: Arkansas Division of Workforce Services.
  • Single fathers: Eligibility rules are family-based. Single dads can qualify for TEA under the same program rules. Apply and ask for child support cooperation guidance if needed.
  • Language access: DHS must provide free interpreters. Say your language at the front desk or on the phone. Bring any mail you don’t understand and ask for translated notices or oral interpretation.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re denied an interpreter or accommodation, ask for a supervisor and put your request in writing. Call 211 for legal aid referrals if needed.

Local Organizations and Support (Find Help Faster)

Even when TEA is pending, you can get help with food, utilities, and job search. Start here:

  • 211 (statewide): Call 211 or visit 211.org — Find local help. They will connect you to food pantries, shelters, rent/utility help, and legal aid in Arkansas.
  • Arkansas Division of Workforce Services: Job search, training, and placement. Official site.
  • Food assistance: Use USDA — Find Food Assistance Programs and ask 211 for your nearest pantry. Apply for SNAP via Arkansas DHS.
  • Domestic violence services: 800-799-7233, thehotline.org. Ask 211 for a local Arkansas shelter or advocate.
  • Legal help: Ask 211 for legal aid in your county for benefit appeals or sanctions.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t reach a resource by phone, go to the county DHS office and ask for a list of local partners. Many offices keep current referral sheets at the front desk.

TEA Appeals and Problem-Solving

Action first: Read your denial, sanction, or closure notice the same day you receive it. It will include the reason and explain how to ask for a fair hearing.

  • Request a fair hearing by the deadline on your notice. If you miss the deadline, you usually can’t appeal that decision.
  • You can bring evidence and witnesses to your hearing (employer letters, medical notes, proof you submitted documents on time).
  • You can ask a legal aid group to represent you or help you prepare. Call 211 to locate one near you.
  • If mail is unreliable, check your online account frequently and consider updating to a stable mailing address (trusted relative, P.O. box).

Sources: Hearing rights are in state TANF policy and due process law. For program authority and rights overview, see U.S. HHS OFA — TANF and Arkansas-specific guidance via Arkansas DHS.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you miss your deadline, reapply immediately and ask how to address the prior issue (e.g., cure a sanction, provide missing documents). Ask a supervisor to review your case notes for the fastest path forward.

TEA and Other Programs: What to Apply for Together

Use this table to plan a same-day benefits application bundle.

Program Why apply together Where to apply
TEA Cash assistance and work supports Arkansas DHS
SNAP Food budget relief while waiting for paychecks USDA SNAP info and apply via Arkansas DHS
Medicaid/ARKids Health coverage for kids and possibly for you Arkansas DHS
Child Care Assistance Needed to meet work requirements; TEA priority Arkansas DHS
Workforce Services Job search, training, and employment Arkansas Division of Workforce Services

Tip: Tell the DHS worker you want to be screened for all programs at once to reduce paperwork and office trips.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If systems are down or lines are long, submit the TEA application first to lock in your date; then finish SNAP and health coverage as soon as possible online or at your next visit.

“What if” Scenarios and Plan B Options

  • I’m denied TEA because of income, but my budget is still short. Ask about child-only TANF (if applicable), SNAP, ARKids, child care assistance, and Workforce Center services. You may also qualify for tax credits at filing time.
  • I’m sanctioned and my cash stopped. Ask how to cure the sanction and reapply. If it’s a misunderstanding, request a fair hearing and bring proof.
  • I’m near the TEA time limit. Ask about extensions if you have a serious hardship (DV, medical, caregiving). If not eligible, shift to child-only TANF (if appropriate) and other supports.
  • I found a job. Ask about Work Pays immediately. Keep reporting your hours and income as required.
  • I can’t use online systems. Apply in person at your county office and ask for help uploading documents. Dial 211 for organizations that help with applications.

Sources and Official References (Verify Details and Amounts)

  • Arkansas Department of Human Services — official program operator for TEA/Work Pays and related benefits (applications, offices, policy updates): Arkansas DHS — Homepage. Check here for the most current TEA eligibility, payment standards, and forms.
  • U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Family Assistance — TANF overview and state flexibility (federal authority and national policy context): HHS OFA — TANF.
  • U.S. Department of Agriculture — SNAP program overview and federal policy updates: USDA — SNAP.
  • U.S. HHS ASPE — Federal Poverty Guidelines (used across many benefit programs; Arkansas DHS references these in various contexts): ASPE — Poverty Guidelines.
  • Arkansas Division of Workforce Services — Workforce Centers, job search, and training: Arkansas DWS.

Note on dollars and limits: Arkansas updates TEA payment standards, income thresholds, and Work Pays details through state policy. For current dollar amounts as of August 2025, confirm directly with Arkansas DHS or your county DHS office. When DHS posts updated charts or forms, use those official figures.

Resources by Region (How to Navigate Locally)

If you can’t find the exact county office page, dial 211 and ask for your nearest DHS county office address, hours, and transportation options.

Region Primary DHS entry point Workforce help Where to ask for pantries/shelters
Central AR (Little Rock/North Little Rock) Arkansas DHS Arkansas DWS 211 or 211.org
Northwest AR (Fayetteville/Springdale/Rogers/Bentonville) Arkansas DHS Arkansas DWS 211 or 211.org
Northeast AR (Jonesboro/Paragould) Arkansas DHS Arkansas DWS 211 or 211.org
Southeast AR (Pine Bluff/Monticello) Arkansas DHS Arkansas DWS 211 or 211.org
Southwest AR (Texarkana/Hot Springs) Arkansas DHS Arkansas DWS 211 or 211.org

Frequently Asked Questions (Quick Answers)

  • How fast can I get TEA? It depends on your interview and documents. Apply immediately to lock in your date, answer calls, and bring documents to speed things up.
  • Can I work and still get TEA? Sometimes. Arkansas may disregard some earnings. Apply and ask your worker to explain the current rules.
  • Do I have to pursue child support? Generally yes, unless you have good cause (domestic violence or other serious risk). Tell DHS if this applies to you.
  • What if I don’t have a ride to appointments? Ask for phone interviews, document uploads by mobile, and transportation assistance.
  • Will TEA affect my immigration status? TEA for a child with eligible status may be allowed even if the parent is not eligible. Talk to DHS about mixed-status households. You have a right to an interpreter.

What to Do If You’re Still Stuck

  • Go to your county DHS office with your application receipt and documents and ask for a same-day check of your case status.
  • If it’s a technical issue, ask the front desk to note it and help you upload documents.
  • For urgent needs (food, shelter, utilities), call 211 or visit 211.org for immediate local help while TEA is pending.
  • If you believe a decision is wrong, request a fair hearing by the deadline on your notice and ask 211 for legal aid near you.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Arkansas 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, payment amounts, income limits, and procedures change. Always confirm current TEA and Work Pays details, dollar amounts, and deadlines with the Arkansas Department of Human Services. Use the official DHS site at https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/ or visit your local DHS county office. If you receive a notice, follow the instructions on your notice and meet all stated deadlines.

🏛️More Arkansas Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Arkansas

Related Posts