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TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in Minnesota

The Ultimate Guide to TANF (MFIP/DWP) for Single Mothers in Minnesota

Last updated: August 2025

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What TANF Looks Like in Minnesota: MFIP and DWP

The federal TANF program is delivered in Minnesota as two related programs:


  • Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP): Ongoing cash plus food benefits and employment services for families with children.
  • Diversionary Work Program (DWP): A short, four‑month program focused on getting you to work quickly; after that, you may move to MFIP if still needed.

Official program law: Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 256J (MFIP/DWP law) — this is the authoritative source on eligibility, rules, and how benefits are calculated in Minnesota.

Key reality:

  • There is a 60‑month lifetime limit on TANF-funded cash assistance, with limited hardship extensions. See law at 256J time limit sections and ask your worker about extensions if you have a disability, domestic violence, or other barriers.
  • If you’re new to assistance and the county believes you can find work quickly, you’ll likely start in DWP for four months before MFIP.
  • Income from work is partially ignored (the “earned income disregard”) so working can still make sense while you’re on MFIP. See Minn. Stat. 256J.21 (income counting and disregards).
  • Child support paid by the other parent is generally “passed through” to you and does not reduce your MFIP grant. See DHS guidance at Minnesota DHS — Child support and public assistance (navigate to program policy).

MFIP vs. DWP at a glance

Topic MFIP (Ongoing) DWP (First 4 Months)
Purpose Ongoing help with cash/food and employment planning Short-term help to get job fast
Typical Duration Up to 60 months lifetime (with possible extensions) Up to 4 months
Work Activities Required, generally 30 hours/week; 20 hours/week if youngest child is under age 6 (federal rule) Required, focused and intensive
Payment Method EBT card (cash/food portions) Mix of EBT cash and vendor payments (like direct rent)
After DWP — If still eligible, case converts to MFIP

Sources: Minn. Stat. 256J; Minnesota DHS MFIP/DWP program pages (via DHS Programs & Services).

Who Is Eligible: The Fast Checklist

Start here. If you meet the basics, apply now via MNbenefits. The county determines final eligibility.

  • You live in Minnesota and plan to stay.
  • You care for a child under age 18 (or under 19 if still in high school), or you are pregnant.
  • Your household meets MFIP/DWP income rules after counting allowed deductions (like the earned income disregard). See Minn. Stat. 256J.21 (income rules).
  • You meet cooperation rules with child support unless you have good cause (safety risk, domestic violence). See Minnesota DHS — Child Support Program.
  • You meet work participation requirements unless you’re exempt (for example, very young baby, verified disability, or good cause).
  • Citizenship/immigration: U.S. citizens and many “qualified noncitizens” can get MFIP. Refugee families may also qualify for Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA). See federal status definitions via USCIS — Qualified Noncitizen guidance and local intake via MN DHS — Refugee Services.

Important: Minnesota’s exact benefit calculations depend on family size, county cost considerations, and income rules. Minnesota uses a “transitional standard” and a “family wage level” in the math. For legal definitions, see Minn. Stat. 256J (MFIP policy framework).

“What to do if this doesn’t work”

  • If you’re a relative caregiver without legal custody, ask about “child-only” MFIP.
  • If your immigration status is complicated, ask the county for an immigration status review and interpreter help.
  • If you are denied for income, ask about DWP, Emergency Assistance, SNAP, and Child Care Assistance. See MNbenefits for all applications in one place.

How Much Cash Help Can You Get?

Minnesota calculates MFIP using:

  • A “transitional standard” (base grant) set by the state for your family size.
  • Your countable income after disregards. Minnesota disregards a portion of earnings so work can pay. See Minn. Stat. 256J.21 (earned income disregard and countable income).
  • Some families also see a “family wage level” used when employed.
  • Child support paid by the noncustodial parent is generally passed through and disregarded in the MFIP calculation. See DHS policy via Minnesota Child Support Program.

Because MFIP amounts are set in law and detailed in DHS charts that change, always check the current numbers directly with DHS or your county:

  • For the current MFIP benefit tables and transition/family wage levels: use Minnesota DHS — MFIP program page and open the MFIP section for the latest charts.
  • If you can’t find the chart online, ask your worker for the current “MFIP transitional standard” table for your family size.

Real world example:

  • A Minneapolis mom with two kids working part-time still qualifies for MFIP because Minnesota disregards a portion of her pay before comparing to the MFIP standard. She also gets 100% of current child support passed through, which helps with rent without causing a negative adjustment to her MFIP. Source framework: Minn. Stat. 256J.21 (income) and DHS — Child Support and Public Assistance.

“What to do if this doesn’t work”

  • If your cash is lower than you expected, ask your worker to walk you through the calculation line-by-line. Request it in writing.
  • If you’re short on rent this month, apply for Emergency Assistance through your county immediately: use the County & Tribal Office Directory.
  • If your hours changed, report within 10 days (required by law). See Minn. Stat. 256J.30 (reporting changes).

Application: Do This First

Fastest path: Apply online with MNbenefits. You can also submit a paper Combined Application Form at your county/tribal office.

Tip: Submit as many proof documents as you can with your application to reduce delays.

“What to do if this doesn’t work”

  • If you don’t hear about an interview within 10 business days, call your county office (use the directory) and ask for a supervisor callback the same day.
  • If you’re denied and don’t understand why, request a written explanation and consider an appeal. See Minnesota DHS — Appeals for how to file.
  • If English isn’t your primary language, you have the right to free interpreter services. Tell the county your preferred language and ask for an interpreter at every contact. See Minnesota DHS — Language Access.

Documents You’ll Likely Need

Bring originals or clear photos/scans. If you can’t get something fast, tell your worker what you’re trying to get and by when.

Document What Counts Tips
Identity Driver’s license, state ID, tribal ID, passport If expired, still show it and ask what else they’ll accept
Social Security numbers SSN cards or official letters for you/children (if available) Children can often be added without SSN if pending
Proof of residence Lease, rent receipt, letter from landlord, shelter stay letter If doubled up, a signed letter from the person you live with
Income Pay stubs (last 30 days), employer letter, unemployment award letter If starting a job, bring offer letter with hours and pay rate
Child support Court orders, payment records, or note that there is none Tell your worker about safety concerns for “good cause”
Childcare costs Provider statement, invoice Helps with Child Care Assistance
Pregnancy Doctor’s verification Ask clinic for a simple note with due date
Immigration status (if applicable) USCIS documents, I‑94, work permits You can request an interpreter and a private interview

“What to do if this doesn’t work”

  • If you can’t get a landlord letter, ask if a home visit or collateral contact is possible instead.
  • If your employer won’t give a letter, your last pay stubs and an employee handbook showing hours policy may help.
  • If documents were lost in a move, ask the worker for a temporary verification plan and extended due date.

Your First 30–60 Days After Approval

  • You’ll be assigned to MFIP Employment Services (or DWP). Expect an orientation and an employment plan meeting quickly (often within the first 2 weeks). You must attend. See employment services via CareerForce Minnesota (Workforce Centers).
  • Weekly activities could include job search, resume help, GED/ESL, short trainings, or subsidized work.
  • Required hours are generally 30 hours/week, or 20 hours/week if your youngest child is under 6 (federal standard). Confirm your exact requirement with your employment counselor.
  • You may be eligible for support services like gas cards, bus passes, car repair help, tools, uniforms, and test fees. Ask clearly for what you need to start or keep a job.

“What to do if this doesn’t work”

  • If you miss orientation or appointments, call immediately and ask to reschedule to avoid sanctions.
  • If you have a health condition or care for a disabled child, ask about a disability assessment and activity adjustments.
  • If you experience domestic violence or stalking, ask privately about the Family Violence Option and getting a good-cause waiver for child support cooperation and modified work activities. See Minn. Stat. 256J (family violence provisions).

Sanctions, Time Limits, and Appeals — Reality Check

Sanctions happen if you miss required appointments or activities without good cause.

  • First, your worker issues a written notice explaining what was missed and how to fix it.
  • If not corrected, your cash portion can be reduced and, after repeated issues, your case can be closed. Details are in law and DHS policy; see Minn. Stat. 256J (sanctions and compliance).
  • Time limit: Most families have a 60‑month lifetime limit on TANF-funded assistance. Extensions exist for people with verified disabilities, domestic violence, or other barriers. Ask early if you’re approaching the limit.

“How to protect yourself”

  • Keep proof: Save texts, emails, and notes from calls with dates/times.
  • If you’re sick or your kid is hospitalized, tell your worker that day, ask for good cause, and give a doctor’s note when you can.
  • If something in your plan isn’t working (e.g., no bus route to required site), ask to change the plan in writing.

Appeals:

  • If you think a sanction or denial is wrong, you can appeal. The deadline is short: typically 30 days from the date of the notice. See DHS Appeals — How to file.

“What to do if this doesn’t work”

  • Get help from legal aid right away: Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid, SMRLS, or call 211 for local legal referrals.
  • Ask your county ombudsperson or a supervisor for a case review before the appeal deadline.
  • If your case closed, reapply through MNbenefits immediately to minimize gaps.

DWP (Diversionary Work Program): What to Expect

  • DWP lasts four months.
  • The county focuses on direct job placement, short trainings, and removing quick barriers (e.g., car repair, work boots).
  • You may get vendor-paid rent or utilities, plus some EBT cash.
  • If you still need help after four months, and you’re otherwise eligible, your case can move to MFIP.
  • Missing DWP appointments can stop payments; talk to your worker early if something blocks you.

Source: DWP is established in Minnesota law within Minn. Stat. 256J.

“What to do if this doesn’t work”

  • If your field needs more than four months to train, ask about MFIP and approved training options as early as month 1–2.
  • If DWP ends and you’re not stable, reapply or ask for conversion to MFIP right away.
  • If rent is not fully covered during DWP, ask about Emergency Assistance and community rent help (call 211).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing the interview call because voicemail was full or phone was off. Keep your phone charged and voicemail set up.
  • Not reporting new income or address within 10 days. This can cause overpayments or sanctions. See Minn. Stat. 256J.30.
  • Skipping employment orientation or weekly check-ins. That’s the fastest way to get sanctioned.
  • Assuming the worker knows you have a safety risk. You must tell them to trigger “good cause” or the Family Violence Option.
  • Waiting until month 5 to ask about DWP-to-MFIP transition. Start in month 2–3.
  • Forgetting to ask for supportive services (bus fare, car repair, uniforms). These can make or break a job start.

“What to do if this doesn’t work”

  • If you think you made a mistake, tell your worker quickly. Ask how to correct it before there’s a sanction.
  • If language is a barrier, request an interpreter for every contact. It’s your right. See DHS Language Access.
  • If your worker is unresponsive, ask for a supervisor and document every call attempt and voicemail date/time.

Other Help You Can Stack With MFIP/DWP

“What to do if this doesn’t work”

  • If you’re waitlisted for child care, ask about MFIP child care priority, Head Start/Early Head Start, and temporary relative care. See Head Start locator (HHS).
  • If SNAP is delayed and you have very low income, ask for expedited SNAP (processed in 7 days or less, if eligible) at your county.
  • If you’re debating school vs. work, ask your worker about approved trainings that count for MFIP and time limits.

Tables You Can Use Right Away

1) Quick comparison: MFIP vs. DWP

Feature MFIP DWP
Duration Up to 60 months lifetime (with possible extensions) 4 months
Type of help Cash + food + employment services Vendor help + limited cash + fast job placement
Work hours target Generally 30 hrs/wk; 20 hrs/wk if youngest under 6 Intensive, varies by plan
After program — Can transition to MFIP if still eligible

Source: Minn. Stat. 256J.

2) Eligibility snapshot

Requirement Summary Source
Residency Must live in Minnesota Minn. Stat. 256J
Child in care Under 18 (or under 19 still in high school) or pregnant Minn. Stat. 256J
Income Countable income must be under MFIP standards after disregards Minn. Stat. 256J.21
Work rules Participation required unless exempt Minn. Stat. 256J
Time limit 60 months lifetime Minn. Stat. 256J

3) Application steps and timeline

Step What Happens When
Submit application Online at MNbenefits or at county/tribal office Day 0
Interview Eligibility phone/in-person interview Usually within 1–2 weeks
Decision Case approved/denied Within about 30 days
First payment EBT issued after approval Typically within 1–10 days after approval
Employment services Orientation and plan Usually within first 2 weeks post-approval

4) Document checklist (short version)

Item Why It Matters
Photo ID Confirms identity
SSNs (if available) Confirms household members
Lease/rent letter Calculates shelter needs/vendor payments
Pay stubs/offer letter Sets earned income disregard math
Child support info Good-cause and pass-through
Childcare costs Child Care Assistance eligibility
Pregnancy proof Determines eligibility start month

5) County/tribal offices: where to apply or ask questions

Area How to find your office Notes
Statewide County & Tribal Office Directory (DHS official) Lists phone, address, hours, and application options
Hennepin County (Minneapolis) Use the directory above and search Hennepin County Ask about walk-in hours
Ramsey County (Saint Paul) Use the directory above and search Ramsey County Ask about same-day interviews
St. Louis County (Duluth) Use the directory above and search St. Louis County Large county with multiple offices
Olmsted County (Rochester) Use the directory above and search Olmsted County Check drop-box options

City-Specific FAQs (Minnesota)

Minneapolis, MN (Hennepin County)

Saint Paul, MN (Ramsey County)

Duluth, MN (St. Louis County)

Rochester, MN (Olmsted County)

Moorhead, MN (Clay County)

Diverse Communities: Tailored Pointers

LGBTQ+ single mothers

  • TANF/MFIP is available regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Discrimination is prohibited. Ask for a safe worker and interpreter if needed.
  • LGBTQ+ support and legal referrals: OutFront Minnesota.
  • If domestic violence or family rejection is affecting stability, ask your worker about the Family Violence Option for plan changes and good cause protections. See Minn. Stat. 256J (family violence provisions).

Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child

Veteran single mothers

Immigrant/refugee single mothers

  • Many “qualified noncitizens” are eligible for MFIP. Ask for an interpreter and a status review. See USCIS basics and MN DHS — Refugee Services.
  • Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) may help if you don’t have minor children. Ask at your county office.
  • Get legal help for complex cases: call 211 for immigration legal referrals or check The Advocates for Human Rights.

Tribal-specific resources

  • Some tribal communities coordinate TANF/MFIP services directly with county partners. Start with your tribal social services office and the DHS directory: County & Tribal Office Directory.
  • Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) protections and culturally specific supports may be available. Ask your worker for a tribal liaison.
  • Housing and community services commonly run through tribal programs—ask for referrals at intake.

Rural single moms (limited access)

  • If transportation is the barrier, request bus passes, gas cards, or mileage reimbursement through your employment plan.
  • Ask if appointments can be done by phone/video.
  • Use 211 to find mobile food shelves, local CAP agencies, and church programs that serve your township.

Single fathers

  • MFIP is for eligible caregivers regardless of gender. If you’re the custodial parent or expecting a baby and meet the rules, you can apply.
  • Ask for help with child support orders and parenting time support through your county’s Child Support office: Minnesota Child Support Program.

Language access

  • You have the right to a free interpreter for applications, interviews, and employment services.
  • Ask for written notices in your preferred language if available. See Minnesota DHS — Language Access.

Local Organizations, Charities, and Support

These are established nonprofits with a statewide or regional footprint.

“What to do if this doesn’t work”

  • If one nonprofit has a waitlist, call 211 to get two or three more options the same day.
  • Ask about seasonal funds (winter energy crisis funds, summer move-in grants).
  • Check your school district’s social worker for help with school supplies, winter coats, and activity fees.

Regional Notes (How Things Can Differ)

  • Twin Cities metro (Hennepin/Ramsey and surrounding counties): Larger caseloads may mean longer hold times. Ask about walk-in hours and same-day interviews. More nonprofit options exist; use 211.
  • Greater Minnesota: Offices may be smaller but offer more personal contact. Transportation is a common barrier — put gas/bus support right into your employment plan. Community Action Agencies are key partners.
  • Tribal communities: Ask your county worker for a tribal liaison; services can be coordinated and sometimes delivered directly by tribal social services.

Step-by-Step: Get Through the MFIP/DWP Process

  • Apply today at MNbenefits.
  • Answer calls and attend your interview. If you miss it, call back the same day to reschedule.
  • Turn in documents within the deadline on your checklist (usually 10 days). Ask for extensions if you’re waiting on third parties.
  • If placed in DWP, tell your counselor what you need for a quick job start (bus pass, car repair, boots).
  • If moved to MFIP, plan for training or stable work hours — and ask for child care help (CCAP) immediately.
  • Report job changes and address changes within 10 days to avoid overpayments/sanctions. See Minn. Stat. 256J.30.

“What to do if this doesn’t work”

  • If the online application glitches, submit a paper CAF to lock in your application date (ask your county for the form and drop-box).
  • If you disagree with a decision, request a supervisor call and review. If not resolved, appeal within 30 days: DHS Appeals.
  • If cash is delayed and eviction is near, ask for Emergency Assistance immediately via your county office directory.

Practical Real-World Examples

Example 1 — Part-time worker with two kids (St. Paul):

  • She earns variable hours at a retail job. Because Minnesota disregards part of her earned income, she still qualifies for MFIP. She also gets CCAP so she can pick up extra shifts. When her employer cut hours, she reported within 10 days, and her MFIP cash increased to cover the gap. Source rules: Minn. Stat. 256J.21 and DHS — CCAP.

Example 2 — DWP to MFIP (Duluth):

  • A Duluth mom starts in DWP and gets vendor-paid rent plus gas cards to reach job interviews. She lands a job in month 3 but needs more hours. After DWP month 4, she transitions to MFIP with employment services, continues the job, and adds a short certified training through CareerForce to improve her schedule and pay. Sources: Minn. Stat. 256J (DWP/MFIP), CareerForce.

Example 3 — Safety planning (Minneapolis):

  • A Minneapolis mom tells her worker about a protection order and safety risks. She’s granted good cause not to pursue child support right now and gets a modified employment plan that allows remote job search until she can relocate safely. Sources: Family Violence protections under Minn. Stat. 256J and DHS policy.

If You’re Denied or Sanctioned: Plan B Toolkit

Source List (Official/Primary or Established Nonprofits)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Minnesota 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, benefit amounts, and procedures can change at any time. Always confirm details with your county or tribal human services office or directly with the Minnesota Department of Human Services. Use the official links in this guide for the latest information.

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