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TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in Missouri

Missouri TANF (Temporary Assistance) for Single Mothers: The Ultimate Real‑World Guide

Last updated: August 2025

This is a practical, no‑fluff guide to Temporary Assistance (TANF) in Missouri—called “Temporary Assistance (TA)” by the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS). It focuses on what you need to do first, what to expect, the exact offices and forms, real timelines, and backup plans if things don’t go as expected.


Before you begin: TA is cash assistance. It’s limited by time and work rules. If you think you qualify, apply right away to start the clock on your application date, then gather any missing papers as DSS asks.

Missouri Temporary Assistance (official program page) — What TA is, how it works, program rules, and how to apply.

Apply for Missouri benefits online at MyDSS — Start an application for TA, SNAP, MO HealthNet, and Child Care in one place.

Family Support Division (FSD) Customer Service Center — Questions, case status, or to request help: call 855‑373‑4636 (toll‑free).

Quick Help Box

Missouri Temporary Assistance at a Glance

Table notes: “TA” is Missouri’s name for TANF cash assistance. Benefit amounts vary by family size, income, and sanctions. The example below uses the best available public data on typical maximum benefits.

Topic What It Means in Missouri Official Source
Program name Temporary Assistance (TA) cash benefits for families with children DSS – Temporary Assistance
Time limit Lifetime limit of 45 months for most adults, with limited hardship extensions RSMo §208.040
Work requirements Missouri Work Assistance (MWA) participation unless exempt DSS – Employment (MWA)
Typical max benefit (family of 3) Historically about $292/month (as of July 2023 statewide comparison) CBPP TANF Benefit Review (Jul 2023)
How to apply Online, by phone, by mail/fax, or in person at FSD Resource Center MyDSS – Apply, DSS Offices
Processing time Up to ~45 days under federal promptness standards 45 C.F.R. §206.10
EBT info Cash available on Missouri EBT; rules, fees, replacement on DSS page Missouri EBT – DSS

First: Apply Right Away (Even if Your Documents Aren’t Perfect Yet)

The single most important step is to submit an application now. Your file date matters for when benefits can start if you’re approved.

You can start with what you have. DSS will tell you what else they need and give you a deadline to turn it in. Keep copies of everything.

Real‑world example: A mom in Jackson County applies online the same day she’s laid off. She uploads her driver’s license and her lease. She doesn’t have her last pay stub yet—she submits anyhow. The caseworker messages her through MyDSS asking for the last 30 days of income verification. She uploads the pay stub a week later. Her application date is still the day she clicked submit.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If the website gives errors or you can’t upload files, call 855‑373‑4636 and ask for help submitting or request to mail/fax documents.
  • Go in person to an FSD office if technology is a barrier: Office locator.
  • If you urgently need food, apply for SNAP immediately (SNAP may be expedited within 7 days if you qualify): Missouri Food Assistance (SNAP). Source for expedited timing: USDA SNAP – Expedited Service Overview.

Who Qualifies (Eligibility Checklist)

Missouri sets eligibility rules in state law and policy. Exact decisions depend on your situation.

  • You live in Missouri and are a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status. Source: DSS – Temporary Assistance overview.
  • You are the parent or relative caregiver of a child under 18 (or under 19 if still in high school). Source: RSMo §208.040.
  • Your household meets income and resource rules (DSS calculates this using state rules; income disregards may apply). Missouri doesn’t publish a single “flat” cutoff because your countable income depends on your situation. Source: DSS – Temporary Assistance.
  • You agree to child support cooperation with the Family Support Division unless you qualify for “good cause” (for example, safety risks due to domestic violence). Sources: Missouri Child Support – FSD, Good Cause for Not Cooperating (DSS).
  • You participate in the Missouri Work Assistance (MWA) program if required (some exemptions exist, such as caring for a very young child or having a verified disability). Source: DSS – Employment (MWA).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you are denied and don’t understand why, ask for the policy citation in writing and request an appeal (hearing) if you disagree: DSS Appeals and Hearings – Division of Legal Services. Appeals are time‑sensitive—file by the deadline on your notice (usually 30 days). Call 855‑373‑4636 if you need help understanding the notice.
  • If your income is slightly too high this month (for example, overtime), ask your caseworker when to reapply; the next month may look different.
  • If safety is a concern, ask immediately about “good cause” to not cooperate with child support and about domestic violence waivers for work rules.

Documents You’ll Likely Need

You can apply without all documents, but you’ll need to turn them in quickly if DSS asks. Always keep photos or copies.

Document Who Usually Needs It Notes
Photo ID (you) Parent/caregiver Driver’s license, state ID, or other acceptable ID
Social Security numbers Everyone in the assistance group If you don’t have a SSN for a child yet, talk to DSS about next steps
Proof you live in Missouri Parent/caregiver Lease, bill, or official mail with your name and address
Proof of income Anyone working or receiving income Recent pay stubs (last 30 days), employer letter, unemployment, child support received
Proof of expenses (if requested) Household Rent/lease, utilities, child care costs, child support paid
Child’s age/school status Children Birth certificates, school enrollment for 18‑year‑olds still in high school
Immigration documents Non‑citizens with eligible status USCIS documents as applicable

Sources: Missouri DSS – Temporary Assistance, MyDSS – Apply.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t get a document quickly (for example, your landlord won’t cooperate), tell your caseworker in writing. Ask what other proof they’ll accept. Keep a copy of your request.
  • If you lost vital records (IDs, birth certificates), ask your caseworker for a written list of acceptable alternatives and a short extension.

How to Apply (Step‑by‑Step)

Start your application now; then handle the follow‑ups.

  • Apply online in about 20–30 minutes: MyDSS Application Portal. You can apply for multiple programs at once (TA, SNAP, MO HealthNet, Child Care).
  • If you need help, call the FSD Customer Service Center at 855‑373‑4636 or visit your local office: FSD Office Locator.
  • After you submit, check your MyDSS account messages or mail for an interview request or document list. Respond by the deadline—usually 10–15 days from the notice date—so your application isn’t denied for “failure to cooperate.”
  • If approved, cash is paid on your Missouri EBT card. Learn card basics here: Missouri EBT – card use, fees, and support.

Sources: MyDSS – Apply, DSS – Temporary Assistance, DSS – EBT.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your application was denied for missing paperwork but you have the documents now, reapply or ask if your case can be reopened with the new documents.
  • If your case is taking too long (over 45 days) and you’ve turned in everything, call 855‑373‑4636 and ask for a status check or to speak with a supervisor. You can also file a complaint in writing.

How Much Money Could You Get?

Missouri does not post a simple public table for TA benefit levels by family size on the main program page. Your grant depends on your household size, income, and any sanctions. Independent policy researchers who track every state reported that in July 2023 Missouri’s typical maximum TA benefit for a family of three was about $292/month. While many states adjust TANF grants rarely, always verify the current figure with DSS.

  • Data point: $292/month max for a 3‑person family (as of July 2023) — Source: Center on Budget and Policy Priorities analysis of TANF cash benefits (established nonprofit; last published July 2023).
  • Your actual amount may be lower due to income or higher/lower due to household specifics or policy changes. For the current Missouri amount, call 855‑373‑4636 or ask your caseworker to show you the grant calculation they used.

Real‑world example: A mom with two kids and no income is approved for TA. Her initial grant is small (under $300/month), so her caseworker also fast‑tracks her SNAP and connects her to MWA for job search. She uses TA for part of rent and bus passes and SNAP for groceries.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your TA amount seems off, ask for the budget worksheet showing how DSS counted your income and household members. If there’s an error, request correction or file an appeal before the deadline on your notice.
  • If TA is too small to cover basics, combine programs: SNAP, WIC, LIHEAP, Child Care Subsidy, and MO HealthNet. Links in “Plan B: Other Help” below.

When Will You Hear Back? (Timeline and What Happens)

Step What to Expect Typical Timing Where to Check or Call
Submit application Online, by phone, by mail/fax, or in person Same day filing date MyDSS – Apply, phone 855‑373‑4636
Interview (if required) Phone or in person Within 1–3 weeks from filing Check MyDSS messages, or call 855‑373‑4636
Submit verifications Upload to MyDSS, mail, fax, or drop off Usually due within 10–15 days of request MyDSS account, local office
Decision Approval or denial notice Within ~45 days (federal standard) Notice by mail/MyDSS; call 855‑373‑4636
Benefits paid Missouri EBT card After approval and monthly thereafter Missouri EBT info

Sources: 45 C.F.R. §206.10 (promptness), DSS – Temporary Assistance.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you miss an interview, call right away to reschedule: 855‑373‑4636.
  • If you can’t meet a document deadline, ask in writing for a short extension and explain why (for example, employer delay).

Work Requirements: Missouri Work Assistance (MWA)

If you receive TA and you’re not exempt, you’ll be referred to the Missouri Work Assistance (MWA) program. MWA helps with job search, resumes, training, and sometimes supportive services (like transportation help for job activities). Participation is required unless you have an approved exemption.

Situation Typical Required Weekly Hours Source
Single parent, youngest child under 6 20 hours/week ACF – TANF Work Participation
Single parent, youngest child 6 or older 30 hours/week ACF – TANF Work Participation
Two‑parent household 35–55 hours/week combined (varies) ACF – TANF Work Participation
Exemptions Case‑by‑case (for example, disability, caring for a very young infant, approved good cause) DSS – Employment (MWA)

Approved activities can include job search, unsubsidized employment, GED/education (if it meets policy), vocational training, and work experience. Ask your MWA worker what counts and keep proof (time sheets, class schedules).

Sanctions for not participating can reduce or stop your TA. If something goes wrong (childcare fell through, bus pass didn’t arrive, you were ill), tell your MWA worker fast and document it. You can ask for “good cause” if you had a serious reason for missing.

Sources: DSS – Employment (MWA), ACF TANF Work Participation rules.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you get a sanction notice, contact your MWA worker immediately and ask how to cure it. If you disagree, request an appeal right away: DSS Appeals and Hearings.
  • If childcare or transportation is why you missed, tell MWA in writing and ask for help arranging those supports.

Child Support Cooperation and Safety

To get TA for your child, the Family Support Division typically requires you to cooperate with child support (helping establish paternity, sharing information). If cooperating would put you or your child at risk, you can request “good cause” not to cooperate.

Sources: Missouri Child Support – Family Support Division, Good Cause information (DSS).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your “good cause” request is denied and you still have safety concerns, talk to a domestic violence advocate and consider appealing the decision: DSS Appeals.

Time Limits: The 45‑Month Cap

Missouri limits most adult TA recipients to a lifetime total of 45 months. Some months may not count (for example, months you were exempt or months your child received a “child‑only” grant). Limited extensions exist for hardship or domestic violence.

  • Keep your own list of months you received TA. If you think DSS counted wrong, ask for your time‑limit printout.
  • Discuss your long‑term plan with MWA early so you don’t hit the time limit without a backup.

Source: Missouri Revised Statutes §208.040.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you are near the limit, ask about hardship extensions in writing. If denied and you have serious barriers, appeal promptly: DSS Appeals.

Using the Missouri EBT Card for TA Cash

Cash assistance is paid on the same EBT card used for SNAP (separate cash and food balances). Read the official EBT page to avoid fees and problems.

  • Card info, PIN, ATM use, replacements, and fee details: Missouri EBT – official DSS page.
  • If your EBT card is lost or stolen, call the EBT Customer Service number on the DSS page immediately and report it. Then ask for the fastest replacement option.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If an ATM ate your card or you had fraudulent use, call EBT support as soon as possible and file a police report if advised. Then call 855‑373‑4636 to note the issue on your case.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing the interview or document deadline; this is a common denial reason. Put reminders on your phone, and call 855‑373‑4636 if you can’t make it.
  • Not telling MWA when childcare or transportation falls through. You may qualify for good cause or support services, but you must notify them quickly.
  • Assuming you don’t qualify because you had a job last month. Apply anyway; DSS uses “countable income,” and changes month to month.
  • Ignoring a sanction notice. Call your MWA worker right away, ask how to cure, and keep proof you followed the steps.
  • Not asking for “good cause” when cooperation with child support would jeopardize your safety. There is a process for that.

Real‑World Examples

  • A mom in St. Louis loses hours at work. She applies for TA and SNAP in one MyDSS application. DSS approves SNAP fast; TA takes longer as they verify income. Her MWA worker helps her with job leads and transit passes for interviews.
  • A parent in Greene County is sanctioned for missing an MWA appointment after her childcare fell through. She calls her MWA worker the next day, explains, and provides a daycare letter. They reschedule and lift the sanction once she completes the required hours.
  • A Jackson County caregiver raising her grandchild applies for a child‑only TA grant. She’s not subject to adult work requirements, but still has to provide proof of the child’s identity and relationship.

Plan B: Other Help to Combine with TA (or Use If TA Isn’t Approved)

TANF cash is small. Most families stack other supports.

Appeals, Complaints, and Your Rights

If you are denied, sanctioned, or disagree with a decision, you can ask for a fair hearing. You must file by the deadline on your notice (commonly 30 days from the date of the notice).

City‑Specific FAQs (Missouri)

These are frequently asked, quick pointers with verified office links and phone numbers.

Local Organizations and Charities (Useful While You Apply or Wait)

Diverse Communities: Tailored Notes and Resources

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers
    • You are entitled to the same TA eligibility and respectful treatment. If you face discrimination, report it to DSS civil rights: Non‑Discrimination and Civil Rights – DSS.
    • For legal name/gender marker issues tied to documents, ask your caseworker what alternate proofs they accept and request reasonable accommodations.
  • Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children
    • Ask DSS and MWA for reasonable accommodations (modified appointments, extra time, accessible communication).
    • If caregiving responsibilities or your own health limit work participation, discuss exemptions or “good cause” with MWA.
    • Connect with Missouri Family‑to‑Family for disability system navigation: Missouri Family to Family.
  • Veteran single mothers
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms
    • Some immigration statuses are eligible; others are not. Children who are U.S. citizens may still qualify even if a parent is not eligible. Talk to FSD about applying for eligible household members only.
    • Free language help is available—tell DSS your preferred language. See: DSS Civil Rights and Language Access.
  • Tribal‑specific resources
    • If you are a citizen of a federally recognized tribe, ask whether a Tribal TANF program serves your tribe. ACF Tribal TANF directory: ACF – Tribal TANF Contact List.
    • You can still apply for Missouri TA if you live in Missouri and meet state eligibility and no Tribal TANF serves you.
  • Rural single moms with limited access
    • If travel is a barrier, request phone interviews and upload documents through MyDSS. Ask your MWA worker about virtual or local options for required activities.
    • Many county libraries can help with scanning and internet. Call ahead.
  • Single fathers
    • TA is for any eligible caregiver. Single dads with children can apply the same way: MyDSS – Apply.
    • Ask MWA for help with job placement and training.
  • Language access
    • You have a right to free interpretation and translated notices. Tell DSS your language preference at application or call 855‑373‑4636 and request an interpreter. See: DSS Civil Rights/Language Access.

Sanctions and How to Avoid Them

Sanctions can lower or stop TA if you don’t meet requirements. Common triggers: missing an MWA appointment or not cooperating with child support without good cause.

  • Always tell your MWA worker as soon as you have a problem (sick child, transportation, domestic violence). Ask for good cause in writing.
  • Keep records: screenshots of bus delays, doctor notes, daycare closures.
  • If you receive a sanction notice, act fast. Ask exactly how to cure the sanction, and do it by the deadline on the notice (often 10–30 days, varies by issue).

Sources: DSS – Employment (MWA), DSS – Child Support & Good Cause.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you believe the sanction is wrong, appeal quickly: DSS Appeals and Hearings. Call 855‑373‑4636 to confirm where to send the appeal and keep proof you mailed or submitted it.

Quick Reference: What to Do for Common Problems

Problem Immediate Action Who to Contact
My application is stuck Check MyDSS messages for missing items; call to confirm 855‑373‑4636, MyDSS account
Lost EBT card Report and request replacement immediately Missouri EBT – Official Page (find the card support number)
No childcare for MWA Tell MWA immediately; request help and good cause if needed Your MWA worker (contact provided after approval)
Safety concerns (child support) Request “good cause” not to cooperate FSD Child Support
Denied or sanctioned File an appeal by the deadline on your notice DSS Appeals

Frequently Asked Questions (Statewide)

  • Does Missouri have a diversion or one‑time TANF payment instead of going on TA?
    • Missouri’s main cash assistance is ongoing TA. If you need one‑time help, ask DSS and local charities about emergency assistance. For rent and utilities, check 2‑1‑1: 211helps.org.
  • Can pregnant people get TA before the baby is born?
    • It depends on how Missouri counts the unborn child and your situation. Ask FSD when you apply: 855‑373‑4636.
  • Will TA affect my child support?
    • Child support collected may be kept by the state to reimburse TA while you receive cash assistance, depending on policy. Discuss details with your FSD child support worker: Child Support – FSD.
  • Can I work and still get some TA?
    • Sometimes. DSS counts “countable income,” not just gross. Apply and let them run the math. DSS – TA overview.
  • How do I know if I’m exempt from MWA?
    • Exemptions are specific. Talk to your caseworker/MWA worker and provide medical or other proof if you can’t participate. DSS – Employment (MWA).

“What If This Doesn’t Work?” Playbook

If TA isn’t approved, the amount is too small, or you need help while you wait, stack these:

Practical Tips to Speed Things Up

  • Upload documents to MyDSS the same day you’re asked and add a quick note explaining anything unusual.
  • Keep a single folder (paper or digital) with IDs, pay stubs, lease, utility bills, child support orders, and any MWA paperwork.
  • Ask your caseworker to list exactly what’s missing and the deadline in writing.
  • If you moved, update your address immediately to avoid missed mail and denials. Call 855‑373‑4636.

Sources (Verified and Dated)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from the Missouri Department of Social Services, HHS/ACF, USDA, and established nonprofits. It 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, amounts, timelines, and contacts can change at any time. Always confirm details with the Missouri Department of Social Services or your local Family Support Division office before making decisions. If you receive a notice with a deadline, follow the deadline on your notice even if this guide says something different.

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