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TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in Maryland

TANF for Single Mothers in Maryland (Temporary Cash Assistance): The 2025 Ultimate, No‑BS Guide

Last updated: August 2025

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TCA in Maryland at a glance (what it is and what it pays)

Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) is Maryland’s name for TANF. It provides monthly cash for eligible families with a child in the home, plus required work services to help you find or keep a job. Cash is loaded onto the Maryland EBT “Independence Card” or sent by direct deposit.


Key things you need to know first:

  • You can apply online in under an hour through myMDTHINK (official application).
  • Most families must do an interview and a work program orientation after applying.
  • TCA has time limits and work rules, with exemptions for certain situations (newborn, disability, domestic violence, etc.).
  • You must generally cooperate with child support unless you get a documented “good cause” exemption.
  • TCA amounts and income limits change. Maryland publishes the official payment standard tables. Always check the current figures here: Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) – program page (official DHS).

Table: What’s covered and what’s not

Topic What to expect
Cash benefit Monthly cash to meet basic needs; amount depends on household size and countable income. See the current “Payment Standard” table on the official TCA page.
How you’re paid Maryland “Independence Card” (EBT) or direct deposit. Learn more: Maryland EBT – Independence Card (official).
Work program Required for most parents unless exempt; childcare help is available for participation.
Time limit Federal lifetime limit is generally 60 months; Maryland may approve hardship exceptions. See state rules on the official TCA page.
Child support Cooperation required unless “good cause” due to safety risks. See Child Support Administration (official).
Immigration U.S. citizens or certain “qualified” noncitizens may qualify; “child‑only” cases may be possible if the child is eligible. See ACF TANF basics (official).

Reality check: Approval can take time, paperwork can be a lot, and missing interviews or work activities can delay or reduce benefits. Keep copies of everything you submit and ask for receipts.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If the online portal times out or you can’t upload documents, use the paper option at your local DSS and ask for a stamped copy as proof of submission: Find your local DSS (official).
  • If you can’t get through by phone, call 2‑1‑1 or visit the office in person during business hours listed in the directory.

Who qualifies for TCA in Maryland

Start here: make sure these basics fit your household. Full, current rules are maintained by DHS here: TCA eligibility and policy (official).

  • You live in Maryland, with a child under 18 (or 18 and still in high school) in the home.
  • You’re a U.S. citizen or a “qualified” noncitizen, or you’re applying on behalf of an eligible child (child‑only case).
  • You meet the income and resource limits. Maryland publishes the official “Payment Standard” and methodology (countable vs. disregarded income). See the current charts on the official TCA page.
  • You provide required information (IDs, Social Security numbers or proof of application, proof of address, proof of income/expenses).
  • You cooperate with child support unless you have a “good cause” exemption due to safety risks or other approved reasons. See Child Support Administration – Good Cause/Family Violence info (official).

Table: Who counts in your household (typical TCA rules)

Person Usually counted in the TCA “assistance unit”?
Your child (under 18, or 18 still in HS) Yes
You (the parent/caretaker) Usually, unless it’s a child‑only case
A co‑parent living in the home Usually yes
SSI recipients Often excluded from the assistance unit (but still part of the household for some budgeting). Check policy.
Noncitizen parent not eligible Child‑only case may be possible if the child is eligible.

Important: Maryland’s exact income test, disregards, and resource rules change. Don’t guess—open the current policy and payment standard on the official page: TCA program details (official DHS).

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you’re slightly over the income limit now, ask about how earned income disregards work and whether a child‑only case applies.
  • If immigration is a concern, ask the worker about a child‑only case and share only what’s needed. For broader legal guidance, contact Maryland Legal Aid (nonprofit).

How much cash can you get in 2025?

Maryland sets monthly payment standards by assistance unit size. The exact dollar amounts are posted (and updated) by DHS.

  • To see the current amounts for your family size, open: Temporary Cash Assistance – payment standards and policy (official DHS).
  • The state uses a budgeting formula that considers your household size, countable income, and any disregards.
  • Because these figures change and vary by circumstance, use the official table or ask your local DSS to calculate your expected payment in writing.

Tips

  • Ask for a written “budget” showing how the worker counted your income and arrived at your benefit.
  • If you work part‑time, ask how Maryland disregards some earnings (so a job doesn’t fully cancel TCA).
  • If the benefit seems wrong, you can request a supervisor review or file an appeal. See Office of Administrative Hearings – appeals (official).

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you can’t locate the current payment chart, call your local office using the local DSS directory and ask them to email or print the latest TCA Payment Standard for your unit size.
  • If your budget looks off, request an “agency conference” with a supervisor and, if needed, a fair hearing through OAH.

Exactly how to apply (fastest first)

What happens next (typical flow; exact timing varies by county)

  • Interview: You’ll get a notice to complete an interview (often by phone). Answer calls from “Unknown” or blocked numbers during business hours.
  • Orientation/work activity: Most parents must attend a work program orientation and begin assigned activities unless exempt.
  • Decision: Cases are usually processed within about 30 days of application. If something is missing, you’ll get a “pending” notice telling you what to provide and by when.

Table: Timeline expectations (typical; confirm with your county DSS)

Step What to expect Where to confirm
Submit application Same day if online; stamped receipt if in person myMDTHINK (official)
Interview Often within 1–2 weeks; can be phone Check your county via the local DSS directory
Decision Many cases within 30 days; delays if documents missing TCA program page (official)
First payment Loaded to EBT after approval; direct deposit if set up Maryland EBT – Independence Card

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you can’t get an interview scheduled, go in person to your DSS with your receipt and ask for a same‑day or earliest slot.
  • If your application is still pending after 30 days and it’s not your fault, ask for a supervisor and document the delay. You can also request a fair hearing: OAH (official).

Required documents (bring more than you think)

Table: Document checklist for TCA

Item Examples
Identity State ID, driver’s license, school ID
Social Security numbers Cards or proof you’ve applied for SSNs for you/children
Maryland residency Lease, utility bill, mail with your name and address
Income Pay stubs (last 30 days), employer letter, unemployment, child support received
Expenses (if asked) Childcare, medical bills, rent, utilities
Child relationship Birth certificates, custody or guardianship papers
Immigration (if applicable) USCIS documents for “qualified” noncitizen status
Domestic violence (if seeking good cause) Police/court records, protective orders, shelter letter, or a statement from a counselor/advocate

Tips

  • If you’re missing a document, submit the application anyway and add a note explaining what’s pending and when you can provide it.
  • Ask the front desk for a copy/scan or upload documents to myMDTHINK the same day.
  • Keep your own scanned photos of documents on your phone or email to yourself for backup.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you’re stuck getting a birth certificate or SSN, apply and tell the worker you’re in process. They can’t deny you just because you’re waiting on a document you’re actively trying to get.
  • If you fear sharing documents due to safety concerns, tell the worker and ask for a private room and a domestic violence good‑cause review. See Child Support Administration – Family Violence info (official).

Work requirements, exemptions, and child care

Most single parents on TCA must participate in work activities (job search, training, work experience). Maryland follows federal standards, with state‑specific details set by DHS.

  • Federal baseline: single parents with a child under 6 are typically assigned around 20 hours/week; with a child 6+ around 30 hours/week. Maryland implements these through its TANF work program. See federal TANF overview: ACF TANF Work Participation (official).
  • Exemptions and deferrals exist for newborns, verified medical issues, disability, caring for a family member, domestic violence, or other good cause per state policy. See Maryland’s program details: TCA program page (official DHS).
  • Child care help is available so you can attend required activities. TCA households can get child care through the state’s scholarship program with no co‑pay while on TCA. Learn more: Maryland Child Care Scholarship (official MSDE).

Reality check

  • If you miss required activities without good cause, your grant can be reduced or closed (sanction). Always call ahead if you’re sick, have no child care, or there’s a safety issue.
  • Keep proof—bus pass receipts, doctor notes, or emails to providers—to avoid sanctions.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If child care isn’t set up in time, ask your worker to delay activities until care is in place, or request a “good cause” deferral.
  • If you’re sanctioned, ask for the cure steps in writing and complete them quickly. If the sanction seems wrong, request an agency conference and consider an appeal: OAH appeals (official).

Child support cooperation and “good cause” for safety

Maryland generally requires TCA applicants to cooperate with child support, unless doing so puts you or your child in danger.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If your good cause is denied but you’re unsafe, talk with a supervisor, bring an advocate to your appointment, and consider appealing.
  • You can also seek free legal advice from Maryland Legal Aid.

Time limits, sanctions, and keeping your case on track

  • Lifetime limit: TANF is generally limited to 60 months in a lifetime. Maryland applies this with some hardship exceptions. See: TCA program details (official DHS).
  • Sanctions: Missing interviews, work activities, or refusing to cooperate without good cause may reduce or stop your grant until you complete “cure” steps.
  • Re‑applications: You can reapply after a closure; bring proof you completed cure steps or that your situation changed.

Table: Common sanctions and cures (general guidance)

Issue What often triggers it How to fix it (ask your worker for your exact steps)
Missed work activity No‑show without good cause Reschedule and attend; provide proof of good cause (doctor note, child care denial, etc.)
Missed interview Couldn’t be reached Call back immediately; ask for same‑day slot or phone interview
Didn’t turn in documents Deadline passed Turn them in; ask for deadline extension if you’re still collecting
Child support cooperation Didn’t respond to CSA Contact CSA; if unsafe, apply for good cause with DV documentation

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If your case closes and you don’t agree, ask for an agency conference and a fair hearing right away: OAH (official). Appeals are time‑sensitive—check your notice for the exact filing deadline and do it quickly.

How payments are made and when you’ll see the money

  • EBT “Independence Card”: Most TCA payments go to the Maryland EBT card. Learn more, including how to check your balance and replace a lost card: Maryland EBT – Independence Card (official).
  • Direct deposit: Ask your worker if you can set up direct deposit to your bank account.
  • Payment schedule: Once approved, your first payment usually comes soon after the decision is issued. Timing varies—ask your worker for your payment date window.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If your approval notice shows a payment but funds aren’t on your card, call your local office (use the local DSS directory) or the EBT Customer Service listed on the EBT site.
  • If your card is lost or stolen, follow the instructions on the EBT page (official).

Real‑world examples

  • Baltimore City mom working part‑time: After turning in her last 30 days of pay stubs and kids’ birth certificates, she did a phone interview and a work orientation. Child care took extra time to line up, so her worker deferred the start date one week. She kept every receipt and email and asked for a written budget to confirm the amount. When the first EBT load didn’t appear by the expected date, she went to the office with her approval notice and got it corrected.
  • Montgomery County mom with safety concerns: She asked for “good cause” to avoid child support due to safety issues. With a letter from a DV advocate and a copy of a protective order, the exemption was granted. Her case moved forward without child support cooperation.
  • Wicomico County caregiver raising a U.S.‑born child: Grandmother with limited income applied for a child‑only TCA case for her grandchild. The case was approved based on the child’s eligibility while the adult wasn’t part of the assistance unit.

Common mistakes to avoid

Table: Mistake vs. fix

Mistake Why it hurts Do this instead
Waiting to apply until you have every document Delays your start date Apply now; submit what you have; note what’s pending
Missing calls from “Unknown” You’ll miss your interview Keep your phone on, voicemail empty, and pick up blocked calls during business hours
Not asking for child care before work activities Can lead to sanctions Ask for child care set‑up or a deferral until care is confirmed
Not reporting changes (job start, move) Overpayments or sanction risk Report changes on myMDTHINK or to your worker within the deadline on your notice
Ignoring letters Deadlines pass and cases close Open every letter the day it arrives; set calendar reminders
Not keeping proof Hard to fix mistakes later Keep a folder with copies, receipts, and screenshots

Plan B if TCA isn’t approved or isn’t enough

Even if TCA isn’t approved, you may qualify for other help.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Call 2‑1‑1 or visit 211 Maryland to search for rent/utility help, diapers, transportation, and local charities.
  • For legal questions or appeals, visit Maryland Legal Aid.

Diverse communities: specific guidance and protections

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: You have the right to respectful, equal service. If you experience discrimination at a DSS office, ask for a supervisor and file a complaint with DHS. For legal help, contact Maryland Legal Aid.
  • Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child: Ask for reasonable accommodations (extra time, accessible communications, remote interviews). Medical documentation can support exemptions/deferrals from work requirements. See state policy via the TCA program page (official).
  • Veteran single mothers: You can receive TCA if eligible. Also check VA benefits and local veteran supports; start at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (official). For Maryland‑specific referrals, dial 2‑1‑1 and ask for veteran navigation.
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: Some noncitizens are “qualified” and eligible; others may not be, but a child‑only case can be possible for U.S.‑born children. Talk with your worker and consider legal guidance through Maryland Legal Aid. For federal TANF status definitions, see ACF TANF overview (official).
  • Tribal‑specific resources: Maryland does not operate a separate Tribal TANF program in‑state. If you’re a citizen of a federally recognized tribe, you still apply through Maryland DSS. If you recently moved from a state with Tribal TANF, bring any documents from your prior case.
  • Rural single moms with limited access: If internet is spotty, use the in‑person paper application at your county DSS or public library computers. Ask about mail‑in, drop box, or phone interviews. Directory: Local DSS offices (official).
  • Single fathers and non‑parent caregivers: TCA is for caretaker relatives too. Grandparents, aunts/uncles, or older siblings raising a child may qualify (including child‑only cases). See eligibility rules on the TCA program page (official).
  • Language access: You have a right to free interpreters and translated notices. Ask your worker for an interpreter and don’t rely on a minor to interpret. If there’s a problem, escalate to a supervisor at your DSS office: Find your DSS (official directory).

City and county FAQs (Maryland‑specific)

  • Baltimore City, MD: How do I apply and what should I expect?
    • Use the state portal to apply online: myMDTHINK (official). Baltimore City has high volume—if you don’t get an interview call within two weeks, visit the office listed for Baltimore City in the local DSS directory. Bring your stamped application receipt and ask for an interview time.
    • If child care is needed for your work activity, ask for child care authorization in your city orientation.
    • For legal help with appeals/sanctions, contact Maryland Legal Aid.
  • Montgomery County, MD (Rockville, Silver Spring, Germantown): Is there extra help for getting to work activities?
    • Ask about transportation supports (bus passes or mileage reimbursement) connected to your TCA work assignment. If you can’t attend because child care isn’t set up yet, request a deferral. Use the local DSS directory to contact the county office that covers your ZIP code.
    • For child care while you participate, apply through Maryland Child Care Scholarship (official MSDE).
  • Prince George’s County, MD: What if I can’t reach my worker?
    • Call the county office from the local DSS directory, ask for the general case management line, and request a call‑back. If it’s urgent (deadline on your notice), visit in person and ask for help at the front desk. Keep notes with dates and names.
    • If your case is pending for over 30 days and it’s not your fault, ask for a supervisor and consider a fair hearing: OAH (official).
  • Wicomico/Somerset/Dorchester (Eastern Shore): I don’t have reliable internet or a printer. How do I apply?
    • Pick up a paper application at your county DSS office (addresses and hours in the official directory). Ask if there’s a drop box. Public libraries also offer free computer access for myMDTHINK.
    • If transportation is an issue for the work program, ask your worker about bus passes or a closer assignment.
  • Washington/Allegany/Garrett (Western MD): Will I have to drive far for appointments?
    • Many interviews are phone‑based. Ask for a phone appointment. For in‑person work activities, request options near you. If you can’t attend due to distance or car trouble, ask for a good‑cause reschedule and submit proof. Use the local DSS directory to plan your visit.

Local organizations, charities, and support

  • 211 Maryland: statewide referrals to food, housing, DV, and more. Dial 2‑1‑1 or visit 211 Maryland (official).
  • Maryland Legal Aid: free civil legal help with public benefits, DV, housing, and more. Visit Maryland Legal Aid.
  • Domestic violence support: National hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233 – The Hotline. 211 can connect you to local shelters and advocates in your county.
  • Diaper banks and baby items: Search by ZIP at 211 Maryland.
  • Workforce help: Your county DSS work program may partner with workforce agencies. Ask your case manager for a referral and bus passes or mileage if available.

Tables you can use right now

Table: Quick links by need

Need Go here
Apply for TCA myMDTHINK – Official application
Find local office Local DSS directory (official)
Payment standards and policy TCA program page (official)
EBT card help Maryland EBT – Independence Card (official)
Child support questions Child Support Administration (official)
Appeals Office of Administrative Hearings (official)
Food help (SNAP) Food Supplement Program – Maryland DHS (official)
Energy help Office of Home Energy Programs – Maryland DHS (official)
Child care Child Care Scholarship – MSDE (official)

Table: “If this happens, do this”

Situation What to do Source
Missed interview Call your local DSS and reschedule; go in person if needed Local DSS directory (official)
Unsafe to pursue child support Request “good cause” exemption and provide any DV documentation Child Support – Family Violence (official)
Case pending >30 days Ask for supervisor review; request hearing if needed OAH (official)
Don’t know your payment amount Ask for the written budget and check the payment standard table TCA program page (official)

“What if” scenarios (with sources)

  • I got a part‑time job. Will I lose TCA?
    • Not necessarily. Maryland disregards part of earned income before budgeting your case. Ask your worker how your hours and pay affect your grant and for a written budget. Policy is on the official TCA page.
  • I’m pregnant and due soon. Do I still have to do work activities?
    • Talk to your worker about a medical deferral or a newborn exemption. Bring a doctor’s note with your due date. See program rules via the TCA page (official).
  • I owe an overpayment. Can I still get TCA?
    • Overpayments are often recouped from your current grant. Ask about a repayment plan and whether the overpayment was agency or client error. Appeal if you disagree: OAH (official).
  • I moved. Do I need to reapply?
    • Report your new address to your worker or through myMDTHINK. You don’t need to reapply if you still live in Maryland, but your case may transfer to the new county office: Local DSS directory (official).
  • My teen turns 18 soon. Does TCA stop?
    • If your 18‑year‑old is still in high school and expected to graduate within the year, benefits may continue. Ask your worker what proof the school needs. See rules on the TCA program page (official).

Source‑based notes on amounts and eligibility (read this before you budget)

We know you want exact dollar amounts. Maryland posts the official, current payment standards and policy on its TCA page. Because those figures change, and to avoid giving you outdated or wrong numbers, use the state’s live resources:

If you need someone to tell you the exact current amount for your household size over the phone, dial 2‑1‑1 and ask to be connected to your local DSS TCA unit, or use the Local DSS directory to call your county office directly.

Resources by region (use the directory to get hours and phone numbers)

  • Baltimore City DSS: Use the local DSS directory and select “Baltimore City” for addresses, office hours, and phone numbers.
  • Montgomery County DSS: Use the local DSS directory and select “Montgomery County.”
  • Prince George’s County DSS: Use the local DSS directory and select “Prince George’s County.”
  • Western Maryland (Washington, Allegany, Garrett): Use the local DSS directory and select your county.
  • Eastern Shore (Wicomico, Somerset, Dorchester, Talbot, Caroline, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Cecil): Use the local DSS directory and select your county.

Tip: When you call or visit, ask for the “Family Investment” or “TCA” unit.

Final checklists

  • Before you apply
    • Gather IDs, birth certificates, proof of address, and last 30 days of pay stubs (if any).
    • Make a simple list of your monthly bills.
    • Plan for a phone or in‑person interview.
    • If safety is a concern, talk to a DV advocate first and request good cause at application.
  • After you apply
    • Answer calls during business hours.
    • Upload missing documents via myMDTHINK or drop off at DSS with a stamped receipt.
    • Ask when your work orientation is and how child care will be covered.
  • If approved

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS), ACF (TANF), USDA, 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 standards, time limits, and procedures can change at any time. Always confirm the latest eligibility rules, dollar amounts, and deadlines directly with Maryland DHS through the official pages below or your local office:

Sources and references (checked August 2025)

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