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TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in Oregon

Last Updated on September 18, 2025 by Rachel

The Ultimate Guide to TANF for Single Mothers in Oregon (No Fluff, Just What Works)

Last updated: August 2025


This guide focuses on Oregon’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash assistance and the closely connected supports you can actually use now. It’s written for fast scanning. Wherever you see a claim or a fact, we link to an official source you can click and verify.

Quick Help Box (do these first)

What TANF Is (Oregon-specific) — and Your First Move

Start here: submit your application through the state’s ONE portal or visit an ODHS Self-Sufficiency Programs (SSP) office. Oregon TANF is cash assistance for families with kids (or for pregnant people) who have very low income. It can be paired with child care help (ERDC), job support (JOBS), and other services. The cash is loaded monthly to your Oregon Trail EBT card and can pay for essentials (rent, bills, diapers, gas).

Reality check:

  • TANF is not instant. Expect interviews and document checks.
  • Amounts depend on your family size, income, and how Oregon counts your earnings. There is no “one-size” dollar figure.
  • If you’re in danger or homeless, tell ODHS. You may qualify for faster help like TA-DVS or short-term Diversion.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Call 1-800-699-9075 and ask for help finishing your application or setting an interview.
  • If you can’t get through by phone, go to your nearest ODHS SSP office and ask for same-day help. Use the locator: Find ODHS office.
  • For immediate safety or shelter assistance, contact 211 or OCADSV Find Help (statewide DV advocates) and ask an advocate to help you navigate TA-DVS with ODHS.

Who Qualifies for Oregon TANF (and how the rules really work)

Action first: apply even if you’re not 100% sure. Oregon will screen you for TANF and other programs in the same application.

Here’s the gist of eligibility. The exact rules and income calculation are in Oregon’s policy and the TANF page:

  • You live in Oregon and plan to stay. Source: ODHS TANF overview.
  • You’re caring for a child under 18 (or under 19 if in high school) in your home — or you’re pregnant (special TANF rules apply; ask your worker). Source: ODHS TANF overview.
  • Your countable income (after Oregon’s disregards) is under Oregon’s TANF “payment standard” for your family size. The state uses a chart to decide this. Source: ODHS TANF — Payment/Eligibility.
  • Immigration status: Many children who are U.S. citizens can get TANF even if a parent is not. If you’re unsure, apply and ask; ODHS checks program-by-program. Source: ODHS TANF overview.
  • You usually must take part in JOBS (work/education activities) unless you have good cause or an exemption (for example, health reasons, caring for a newborn, domestic violence safety plan). Source: ODHS TANF — JOBS program.

Important details you’ll hear about:

  • Child-only TANF: If the child is eligible but the adult is not, Oregon may open a “child-only” case (different rules, no adult work requirement). Ask if this fits your family.
  • Domestic violence protections: If child support cooperation puts you at risk, you can request “good cause” not to pursue child support while still getting TANF. Ask your worker to document this. Source: ODHS Domestic Violence Services.
  • Time limit: Oregon follows the federal 60-month lifetime TANF clock for most adult cases, with exceptions (months may not count if you meet certain exemptions, like domestic violence). Ask how Oregon will count your months. Source: U.S. ACF TANF basics.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If Oregon says you’re “over income,” ask them to show the “payment standard” for your family size and how they counted your earnings. Ask about earned income “disregards” that may lower your countable income.
  • If work rules are a barrier, ask for a JOBS assessment and to add a reasonable accommodation or DV safety plan to your case.
  • If denied, ask in writing for a hearing right away. Start here: ODHS Hearings and Appeals (how to request a hearing).

How Much TANF Cash Could You Get?

Action first: use the official route to see your amounts.

  • The exact TANF grant depends on your “need group” size and countable income after Oregon’s rules. Oregon maintains a chart and calculates in the case system.
  • To see your number, apply through the ONE portal and complete the interview. You can also ask the worker to show you the “payment standard” chart they’re using.

Source and verification:

If you need exact figures right now:

  • Ask your ODHS worker during the interview to read you the current “payment standard” for your family size and show you how they calculated your benefit.
  • If you can’t reach a worker, call 1-800-699-9075 and request a benefits estimate.
  • You can also visit an ODHS office in person and ask to view the current TANF payment standard chart at the front desk.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

Oregon TANF vs. TA-DVS vs. TANF Diversion (Snapshot)

Note: Dollar amounts vary by case and policy updates. Use linked pages and your worker’s written notice for current figures.

Program What it’s for Typical uses How it pays Where to apply Official info
TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) Monthly cash for very low-income families with children or pregnancy Rent, utilities, diapers, transportation Monthly on Oregon Trail EBT cash Apply at ONE or local ODHS office ODHS TANF program
TANF Diversion (one-time) Solves a short-term crisis so you don’t need ongoing TANF Car repair, deposit, an overdue bill One-time payment (if approved) Ask in your TANF interview or at ODHS office ODHS TANF program
TA-DVS (Domestic Violence) Emergency cash for survivors to leave/stay safe Locks, deposits, travel, phone, ID Short-term, often faster than TANF Apply at ODHS; safety planning with staff ODHS Domestic Violence Services

What to do if this doesn’t work:

Step-by-Step: How to Apply (and what to expect)

Action first: submit online at ONE and choose “Cash” benefits. Then prepare for your interview and documents.

Step What to do How long this part can take Tips
1 Start application at ONE.Oregon.gov Same day Create an account. Select TANF (cash). Also check SNAP and ERDC so you don’t have to reapply twice.
2 If you can’t apply online, call 1-800-699-9075 or go to an ODHS office Same day Ask for help filing by phone or in-person; request an interpreter if needed (free).
3 Complete interview (phone or in-person) Often within 1–2 weeks; can be sooner Keep your phone on, voicemail set up, and check email. If you miss a call, call back same day.
4 Submit documents Within deadlines on your notice (often 10 days) Upload in ONE, bring to an ODHS office, or fax if available. Ask for a receipt.
5 Decision and EBT card Varies by office volume; TANF decisions commonly within several weeks If approved, cash loads monthly to Oregon Trail Card (EBT). Ask your worker for your deposit schedule.

Sources:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you don’t hear back within 2 weeks, call 1-800-699-9075 with your application ID.
  • Go to the ODHS office early morning; ask to speak with a worker about your pending TANF app.
  • If you’re unsafe and need faster help, ask for TA-DVS and safety planning: ODHS Domestic Violence Services.
  • For immediate local help, call 211 or use 211info.

Documents Checklist (bring more than you think you need)

Category Examples that work
Identity State ID or driver’s license, passport, school ID, or other government photo ID
Social Security numbers SSN cards or official letters. If you don’t have an SSN, tell ODHS; they will guide you.
Proof you live in Oregon Lease, mail to your name at an Oregon address, shelter letter
Kids in your home Birth certificates, school records, custody or guardianship paperwork
Income Recent pay stubs, employer letter, self-employment records, Unemployment Insurance letter
Expenses Rent/lease, utilities, child care receipts or provider statement, medical bills
Pregnancy Doctor’s note or clinic verification
Safety For TA-DVS: police report, restraining order, or a statement. If you don’t have documents, tell ODHS; they can still work with you.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re missing papers, submit what you have and explain. Ask what else can verify the same fact (for example, a school letter for a child).
  • Ask ODHS to help you request records (employer, landlord).
  • For domestic violence, tell ODHS if getting documents would put you at risk. Source: ODHS Domestic Violence Services.

Work Rules (JOBS), Good Cause, and Sanctions—What’s real in Oregon

Action first: if the assigned activity doesn’t fit your life (childcare, safety, health), ask for a JOBS assessment and to update your plan. You have a say in the plan.

  • Oregon’s JOBS program includes job search, training, education, mental health and substance use treatment, and domestic violence services. Plans can be flexible. Source: ODHS TANF overview (JOBS).
  • Good cause/exemptions: Caring for a newborn, medical issues, domestic violence safety, or lack of child care may qualify. Ask your worker to document good cause. Source: ODHS TANF overview.
  • Sanctions: If you miss required activities without good cause, Oregon can reduce or stop TANF cash. If sanctioned, call your worker and ask how to “cure” it (usually by completing an agreed step). Get it in writing. Source: ODHS TANF overview.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re sanctioned and you had a good reason, request a hearing. Start here: ODHS Hearings and Appeals.
  • Ask for a case conference with a supervisor to adjust your plan.
  • For advocacy, contact Oregon Law Center.

Getting Paid: Oregon Trail Card (EBT) for TANF Cash

Action first: once approved, ask your worker for your expected deposit date and how to set/change your PIN.

  • TANF cash loads monthly to your Oregon Trail Card (EBT). You can withdraw cash at many ATMs or pay for certain purchases at stores that allow cash EBT. Source: ODHS EBT overview, accessed August 2025.
  • Keep your card safe. If lost or stolen, report it immediately using the EBT customer service number on the back of your card and call ODHS at 1-800-699-9075.
  • Fees: Some ATMs charge fees. Try to use in-network or no-fee options when possible.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your card doesn’t arrive, verify your address with ODHS.
  • If your deposit is missing, ask for a written notice showing whether your case is active and the amount issued.
  • If you suspect fraud, report it to ODHS and the EBT vendor right away (number on card back) and request a replacement card.

Reporting Changes and Staying in Good Standing

Action first: when something big changes, tell ODHS quickly.

  • Changes that matter: new job or hours, someone moving in or out, a new baby, moving, large one-time payments.
  • Timing: ODHS notices often give a deadline (commonly 10 days) to report certain changes. If unsure, call your worker as soon as you can so they can note it. Source: ODHS practice and TANF rules (see OAR — searchable site).
  • Keep proof: screenshots, pay stubs, rent receipts. Ask for a receipt when you turn in documents.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your benefit drops and you don’t know why, request a “Notice of Decision” with the calculation.
  • If it looks wrong, you can ask for a hearing: ODHS Hearings and Appeals.
  • Ask legal aid to review: Oregon Law Center.

Real-World Examples (how Oregon treats common situations)

Action first: tell your worker the full picture. Oregon can adjust the plan when it knows what’s going on.

  • Part-time worker with irregular shifts: You can still get TANF if your countable income is under the chart for your family size. Keep all pay stubs. Ask for ERDC child care so you don’t miss shifts. Sources: ODHS TANF, ODHS Child Care (ERDC).
  • Fleeing DV with a toddler: Tell ODHS right away. Ask to apply for TA-DVS and TANF together. For child support cooperation, request “good cause.” You can keep your location confidential. Source: ODHS Domestic Violence Services.
  • Grandparent caregiver: You may be eligible for child-only TANF even if your own income is too high for a regular case. Ask ODHS to evaluate “child-only.” Source: ODHS TANF program.
  • Pregnant, no other kids: Ask if you qualify for pregnancy-related TANF and OHP (Medicaid). Apply in ONE and check both Cash and Medical. Source: ONE portal, Oregon Health Plan (OHP).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If a worker says you don’t qualify, ask them to check “child-only,” “Diversion,” or TA-DVS if any apply.
  • If you believe the decision is wrong, request a hearing and get help from legal aid.

Other Help That Often Goes With TANF (Plan B and add-ons)

Action first: apply for these together in the ONE portal where possible.

Program Why it matters Where to apply Official info
SNAP (food stamps) Groceries while TANF is pending/active Apply in ONE ODHS Food Benefits
ERDC (child care) Pays a chunk of child care so you can work or do JOBS Apply in ONE ODHS ERDC Child Care
OHP (Medicaid) Free/low-cost health coverage Apply in ONE OHP (OHA)
WIC Food for pregnant/postpartum people and young kids Contact local WIC Oregon WIC (OHA)
Rental/utility help Keeps the lights on and roof over your head Dial 211 OHCS Housing Help
Child Support Can assign to the state while on TANF; ask about good cause ODHS/DOJ Child Support Oregon Child Support Program

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask 211 to search multiple agencies for the same type of help (e.g., rental aid from different funds).
  • If you’re denied, ask for the denial in writing and appeal if needed (each program has its own appeal process).

City- and County-Specific Quick FAQs (Oregon)

Action first: use the ODHS office locator and call before you go if you can.

  • Portland (Multnomah County): Where do I go in person?

Use the ODHS office locator to find the Self-Sufficiency office nearest your address: ODHS Office Locator — Multnomah area included. For transit planning, use TriMet’s trip planner. For non-ODHS rent/utilities help in Portland, call 211 or check 211info.

  • Salem (Marion County): Can I get DV help and TANF together?

Yes. Tell ODHS you need TA-DVS and TANF in the same visit. Start at ODHS Domestic Violence Services. Use the office locator for the nearest SSP office in Salem/Keizer: Find your ODHS office.

  • Eugene/Springfield (Lane County): How do I turn in documents fast?

Upload documents in the ONE portal or bring them to the nearest ODHS Self-Sufficiency office and ask for a stamped receipt. Locator: ODHS Office Locator. For local food pantries if SNAP is pending, see Oregon Food Bank — Find Food.

  • Bend/Redmond (Deschutes County): I don’t drive. Can I still do my interview?

Yes. Ask for a phone interview or video if offered. If childcare or work schedules are a barrier, request another time. Use the office locator for hours/locations: ODHS Office Locator.

  • Medford/Ashland (Jackson County): My hours vary weekly. Will TANF cut me off each time?

Not automatically. Oregon looks at “countable income” and may average earnings. Report changes as required on your notice. Ask your worker how they are counting. Find your local office: ODHS Office Locator. If denied or reduced unexpectedly, ask for a written notice and consider a hearing: ODHS Hearings and Appeals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid (learned the hard way)

  • Waiting to apply until you have every document. Apply first, then submit missing items.
  • Missing the interview call. Keep your phone on, voicemail set up, and call back same day.
  • Not saying you’re unsafe. If you’re dealing with domestic violence, tell ODHS; TA-DVS and good-cause rules can protect you.
  • Not asking about ERDC child care. If you work or do JOBS, ERDC can keep your child care from breaking your budget.
  • Ignoring letters. ODHS letters have deadlines (often 10 days). If you can’t meet a deadline, call them before it passes.
  • Not asking for a supervisor or hearing when something seems wrong. You’re allowed to question a decision.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Get a second set of eyes from legal aid: Oregon Law Center.
  • Call the ODHS Customer Service Center 1-800-699-9075 and ask for a case conference.

Difficulties and Reality Checks (so you can plan)

  • Timelines can slip. Offices are busy. If you’re not hearing back, keep calling and consider going in person early morning.
  • Benefit levels may feel low relative to rent. Pair TANF with SNAP, ERDC child care, WIC, and local rental/utility help.
  • Work requirements can be stressful with little kids. Ask for a JOBS plan that fits your real schedule and child care options.
  • If you’re undocumented, your U.S.-citizen child may still get TANF; talk to ODHS. You can also ask about SNAP and WIC for the kids.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Try Diversion, TA-DVS, and 211 referrals for near-term cash help.
  • Ask your worker to screen you for every program in the ONE system so nothing is missed.

Inclusive Help for Diverse Communities (Oregon-specific guidance)

Action first: tell ODHS what you need (interpreter, safety plan, disability accommodation). They must provide language help and reasonable accommodations.

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask ODHS for name/pronoun respect and safe services. For inclusive DV support, see OCADSV Find Help.
  • Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child: Request reasonable accommodations for JOBS activities, flexible reporting, and transportation help. Ask about OHP, behavioral health, and family caregiver supports via ODHS. Start: ODHS Self-Sufficiency — TANF and OHP.
  • Veteran single mothers: Contact the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs for extra benefits (housing, education, emergency assistance): ODVA — Benefits and Help. Ask ODHS to coordinate with your VSO.
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can ask for an interpreter at no cost. Children may qualify even if a parent does not. Refugee-specific services: check ODHS refugee programs (ask your ODHS office to connect you) and apply for OHP for medical coverage. Start with ODHS TANF and OHP.
  • Tribal-specific resources: Some Oregon families may be eligible for Tribal TANF through their nation. To find program contacts, see the federal directory: ACF Tribal TANF Program — directory and info. You can still apply for state TANF if you’re not in a Tribal TANF service area.
  • Rural single moms with limited access: Ask ODHS for a phone interview, document pickup options, or help with transportation. 211 can connect you to mobile pantries and local Community Action for utility/rent aid: 211info.
  • Single fathers: Oregon TANF is for families with children regardless of gender. Apply the same way in ONE. Source: ODHS TANF overview.
  • Language access: Ask for an interpreter in your preferred language (including ASL). It’s free. Source: ODHS language access and accessibility information via ODHS Contact/Offices.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you were not offered language access or an accommodation, ask for a supervisor and note the date/time. Consider contacting Oregon Law Center for help.

Resources by Region (how to find local help fast)

Region/County How to find your TANF office Extra local help
Portland Metro (Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas) ODHS Office Locator 211info for rent/utility/shelter; Oregon Food Bank for pantries
Willamette Valley (Marion, Polk, Linn, Benton, Yamhill) ODHS Office Locator 211info; connect with county health and housing via your county’s official website
Lane County (Eugene/Springfield) ODHS Office Locator 211info; Oregon Food Bank — Find Food
Southern Oregon (Jackson, Josephine, Klamath) ODHS Office Locator 211info; local Community Action via CAPO (find your agency)
Central Oregon (Deschutes, Crook, Jefferson) ODHS Office Locator 211info; Community Action via CAPO
Eastern Oregon (Umatilla, Union, Malheur, Baker, etc.) ODHS Office Locator 211info; CAP agencies via CAPO

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t find the right office online, call 1-800-699-9075.
  • If a regional hotline is busy, show up early at an ODHS office; ask for help as a walk-in.

Local Organizations That Often Help TANF Families (statewide networks you can trust)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask an ODHS worker to call a partner agency with you on the line to set an appointment.
  • If a waitlist is long, ask 211 to search the next-nearest county or city.

Practical Tips to Speed Things Up

  • Tell ODHS if you’re homeless or fleeing DV — your case may be prioritized.
  • Go to the office early with all documents in a folder. Ask for a stamped receipt for anything you turn in.
  • If you need child care to attend JOBS, ask for ERDC immediately so you can keep your schedule.
  • Set reminders for deadlines on your phone. ODHS letters include dates (often 10 days) — missing one can delay or reduce benefits.
  • If English isn’t your first language, ask for an interpreter every time. It’s your right and it’s free.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask for a supervisor or case conference on the spot.
  • If you face repeat barriers, contact Oregon Law Center.

Five Detailed FAQs (Oregon cities)

  • Portland: Can I use my EBT cash at any ATM?

Yes, but fees vary. Many ATMs charge fees for EBT cash withdrawals. Ask your bank or credit union about surcharge-free options, or take cash back with a purchase at stores that allow it. If the card eats your EBT, contact the EBT number on the back plus ODHS at 1-800-699-9075. Source: ODHS EBT overview.

  • Salem: I can’t get time off for a JOBS workshop. Will I be sanctioned?

Tell your worker right away and ask to reschedule or adjust your plan. If your work schedule conflicts, that can be incorporated into your JOBS plan. If you were already sanctioned, ask how to “cure” it and request this in writing. Source: ODHS TANF/JOBS.

  • Eugene: My teen is 18 and still in high school. Can we still get TANF?

Possibly. Oregon may count a child under 19 if they’re still in high school. Tell your worker and provide school enrollment proof. Source: ODHS TANF overview.

  • Bend: I was told to apply for Child Support. I’m scared of my ex. What now?

Ask ODHS for “good cause” not to cooperate because of domestic violence or safety risk. You can still receive TANF if good cause is approved. Source: ODHS Domestic Violence Services; Oregon Child Support Program.

  • Medford: I need one-time help with a car repair to keep my job. Do I have to go on TANF?

You can ask for TANF Diversion, which is designed for a one-time need that keeps you off ongoing TANF. Ask during your TANF application or at the ODHS office. Source: ODHS TANF program.

If You’re Denied, Delayed, or Underpaid

Action first: get the denial/reduction in writing and note the date.

  • Ask for a copy of the budget/benefit calculation and the specific rule used.
  • Request a hearing right away if you disagree: ODHS Hearings and Appeals. Deadlines apply — follow the dates on your notice.
  • Call legal aid for help preparing: Oregon Law Center.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Contact your state legislator’s office for constituent help (can’t decide the case but can check on delays).
  • Reapply if your situation changes (for example, lost job, changed household size).

Tables You Can Use Today

Table: Where to Apply and Get Help

Need Best first step Backup option
Monthly cash (TANF) Apply at ONE Visit ODHS office: Office Locator
One-time cash (Diversion) Ask during TANF application/interview Ask ODHS front desk to flag your Diversion request
DV emergency cash (TA-DVS) Tell ODHS you need TA-DVS DV advocates via OCADSV Find Help
Food Apply for SNAP in ONE Pantries: Find Food
Child care (ERDC) Apply in ONE Ask ODHS to prioritize for work/JOBS
Rent/Utilities Call 211 OHCS Housing Help

Table: TANF Interview Prep

Topic What they’ll ask What helps
Your household Who lives with you and their ages Birth certificates, school records
Income Jobs, hours, pay, other income Recent pay stubs or employer letter
Expenses Rent, utilities, child care Lease, bills, child care receipts
Safety DV concerns, need for TA-DVS Any statement or advocate letter
Work plan Availability, barriers Doctor notes, class schedules

Table: Reasons to Request Good Cause or an Exemption

Situation What to ask for Why it matters
Domestic violence Good cause from child support cooperation; safety-based JOBS plan Protects you and your kids while keeping benefits
Newborn care Temporary exemption/deferral Gives time to recover and bond
Health or disability Reasonable accommodation in JOBS Gets activities that fit your abilities
No child care Adjusted plan until care is arranged Avoids unfair sanctions

Table: After Approval — Staying Organized

Task How often Tool
Check mail and ONE messages Weekly Calendar reminder
Track deadlines on notices As they come Phone alarms
Keep a doc folder (paper/digital) Ongoing Snap pics of docs
Update ODHS on big changes As needed Call 1-800-699-9075 or upload in ONE

Table: If Things Go Sideways

Problem Immediate step Next move
Can’t reach worker Call 1-800-699-9075 Go in person to ODHS SSP office
Missed interview Call same day to reschedule Ask for supervisor if blocked
Lost EBT card Call the number on card back Call ODHS if deposit missing
Denied Request written notice and calculation Ask for a hearing; call legal aid

“What If This Doesn’t Work?” — Quick Plan B Menu

  • Ask ODHS to screen you for every benefit in ONE (TANF, SNAP, ERDC, OHP).
  • Call 211 for any rent/utility/shelter gaps.
  • Talk to a DV advocate if safety is involved: OCADSV Find Help.
  • Ask legal aid to check your calculation and rights: Oregon Law Center.
  • If work hours or child care block JOBS, ask for a plan change or reasonable accommodation.

Source List (clickable, official, and verified)

Note on amounts: Oregon updates TANF standards periodically. For the current TANF “payment standard” by family size and the exact calculation for your case, ask ODHS for the current chart and your written budget. If you need a confirmed number before you apply, call 1-800-699-9075 or visit your local ODHS SSP office and request the current payment standard for your family size.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Oregon 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 timelines change. Always confirm key details (eligibility, required documents, current payment standards, and deadlines) directly with Oregon Department of Human Services or the official sources linked above. This guide is for general information only and is not legal advice.

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