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TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in Texas

TANF Cash Help in Texas: A No‑Nonsense Guide for Single Mothers (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

Quick help (start here)

What TANF is in Texas (and the fastest way to use it)

  • Immediate action: apply online first, then track messages and schedule your interview.
  • TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) is monthly cash help for very low‑income families with a child in the home. It’s run by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). Official overview: Cash Help: TANF (Texas HHS).
  • Texas also runs two one‑time cash programs connected to TANF:
  • The monthly TANF amount depends on family size and is tied to HHSC’s Payment Standard. Texas publishes the official chart here: TANF Budgetary/Need Standard & Payment Standard (Texas Works Handbook, HHSC). Use this live HHSC chart to see the exact current amount for your family size.

Texas TANF program types at a glance

Program What it is Who it’s for Maximum/typical benefit Where to verify
TANF (monthly) Ongoing monthly cash help Very low‑income parent/caretaker with a child Varies by family size. Check HHSC Payment Standard chart. HHSC TANF Payment Standard chart
One-Time TANF One‑time crisis payment Parent/caretaker not currently receiving TANF monthly cash who has a short‑term need $1,000 (single payment) One-Time TANF (Texas HHS)
One-Time TANF for Relatives One‑time payment for kinship caregivers Relative caring for a child (not the child’s parent) $1,000 (single payment) One‑Time TANF for Relatives (Texas HHS)

What to do if this doesn’t work:


  • If the website is down or you’re stuck uploading documents, call 2-1-1 or 1-877-541-7905 and ask for help completing an application or for an appointment at an HHSC office.
  • If you don’t think you qualify for monthly TANF but have a short‑term crisis (job start, rent deposit, utilities), ask specifically about One‑Time TANF or One‑Time TANF for Relatives.

Who qualifies (and what to check first)

  • First step: confirm you have a child in your home and your income and assets are under HHSC limits.
  • Core eligibility for TANF in Texas includes:
    • A dependent child under 18 (or under 19 if still in high school) living with you.
    • Meet income and resource (asset) limits.
    • U.S. citizen or qualifying immigrant for the people receiving benefits.
    • Cooperate with child support (unless you have “good cause,” such as family violence).
    • Children must be up‑to‑date on required immunizations and school attendance.
    • Adults usually must meet work requirements (Choices program).
      Source: HHSC Cash Help TANF page and Texas Works Handbook TANF policy index.
  • Income limits and maximum grant amounts are set by HHSC and change. See the official live chart: TANF Need and Payment Standards (HHSC).
  • Time limits apply to adult recipients (lifetime cap under federal law is generally 60 months, with some exceptions). See: Time‑Limited Benefits (Texas Works Handbook A‑2400).

Quick eligibility checks

Topic What to check Official source
Family composition You have a dependent child living with you (or you’re a relative caregiver). HHSC TANF overview
Income Your gross and net income compared to HHSC Need Standard for your family size. HHSC Need & Payment Standards chart
Assets Countable resources under HHSC limits (see policy). Texas Works Handbook: Resources verification
Work You can meet Choices work activities (with exceptions). Choices Program (TWC)
Child support Willing to cooperate with OAG Child Support unless “good cause.” Texas OAG Child Support
Health/school Immunizations for kids under 6; school attendance for school‑age. Texas Works Handbook requirements

Real‑world example:

  • A mom in El Paso with two kids, part‑time income, and no assets beyond a used car may qualify for monthly TANF if her income falls under the Need Standard for a household of three. HHSC counts certain parts of earned income differently, so don’t self‑deny — apply and let HHSC budget it. Source for budgeting rules: Texas Works Handbook financial eligibility.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your income is temporarily too high but you face a one‑time crisis (rent deposit, car repair to start a job), look at One‑Time TANF ($1,000).
  • If you’re a relative caregiver (grandparent, aunt, older sibling), try One‑Time TANF for Relatives ($1,000).
  • If you’re over the income limit for monthly TANF, you may still qualify for other help like SNAP, WIC, or child care subsidies. Use 2-1-1 or 211Texas.org to find programs.

How much money TANF pays in Texas

Reality check:

  • Texas TANF monthly payments are low compared to current costs. Go in expecting modest cash help and mandatory steps (work program, interviews, verifications). The best use is often as a bridge while you stabilize income or line up child care/work support.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If monthly TANF is too low to cover immediate costs, combine it with One‑Time TANF if you qualify, or ask your caseworker about emergency help options they can refer you to (rent/utility aid, diapers, transportation).
  • Call 2-1-1 for local nonprofits that fill gaps (food banks, diaper banks, utility assistance, rent help).

Work requirements (Choices) and what to expect

  • First action: contact your local Workforce Solutions office when HHSC refers you — don’t wait.
  • Texas TANF work requirements are administered by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) through the “Choices” program. Official overview and activities here: Choices Program (Texas Workforce Commission).
  • Typical weekly hours (federal TANF rules, used in Texas Choices):

Choices work requirement basics

Situation Expected weekly hours Examples of activities Where to verify
Single parent, youngest child under 6 20 hours/week Job search, job readiness workshops, unsubsidized work, community service (if assigned) TWC Choices Program
Single parent, youngest child 6 or older 30 hours/week Employment, work experience, training (as assigned), education linked to work TWC Choices Program
Good cause (e.g., domestic violence, health barriers) May be temporarily exempt or assigned alternate activities Family violence option, medical documentation Texas Works Handbook exemptions

Real‑world example:

  • A mother in Dallas with a 4‑year‑old was scheduled for an orientation at Workforce Solutions. She needed bus passes and child care. Workforce issued transportation help and referred her to child care waitlist so she could complete her 20 hours/week of assigned job search. Source: Workforce Solutions Dallas contact page (locator to find the exact office).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If child care or transportation makes you miss hours, tell your Choices coach right away and ask for supportive services. Document everything.
  • If violence or safety issues are in play, ask for a family violence “good cause” exemption or alternative plan.

Child support cooperation (and safety “good cause”)

  • Immediate step: if you have a safety concern, tell HHSC and your caseworker before child support actions start.
  • TANF requires cooperation with the Texas Office of the Attorney General (OAG) for child support. Official info: OAG Child Support Division | Phone 1-800-252-8014.
  • You may claim “good cause” if cooperation would put you or your child at risk (family violence, sexual assault, adoption situations, etc.). Good cause rules are in HHSC policy and OAG practice. Sources: Texas Works Handbook – Child Support cooperation/good cause and OAG Child Support.
  • If you receive TANF, some of the child support collected may go to the state (assignment of rights). You may receive a small pass‑through if applicable; confirm current rules with OAG/HHSC.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re being threatened or fear harm, ask HHSC for a family violence specialist referral and good cause consideration. You can also contact the OAG and request safety protections.
  • For legal help, contact TexasLawHelp.org’s live chat and resources (statewide nonprofit legal info) and ask for referrals to local legal aid.

How to apply (step‑by‑step) and timeline

  • First action: submit an online application today and upload what you have; don’t wait on every document.
  • Apply online: YourTexasBenefits.com (official HHSC portal). You can also apply by phone at 2-1-1 / 1-877-541-7905 or in person via the office locator at 211Texas.org.
  • After you apply, watch your account and mail for your interview appointment. Interviews are usually by phone, but in‑person is possible if requested.
  • Processing time: HHSC generally processes TANF within standard time frames set in policy; ask your caseworker for your deadline. If you have a crisis, ask whether One-Time TANF can be processed faster. For exact HHSC processing standards, see Texas policy: Texas Works Handbook – application processing.

Application timeline (what usually happens)

Step What you do When
1. Submit Apply at YourTexasBenefits.com or by phone 2-1-1 / 1-877-541-7905 As soon as possible
2. Documents Upload ID, SSNs, proof of income, rent/utility bills, child info Within the first 7–10 days if possible
3. Interview Answer phone/in‑person questions; bring/submit anything missing By the scheduled date on your letter (watch for deadlines)
4. Choices If approved and required, connect with Workforce Solutions for work activities Usually within the first 1–2 weeks after approval
5. Decision HHSC posts or mails your notice of approval/denial Typically within standard HHSC timelines (ask your worker for the exact date)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you miss your interview, call 2-1-1 or your case number on the letter the same day to reschedule.
  • If your case is delayed, upload a short note in YourTexasBenefits or call 2-1-1 and ask for a status check. Document every contact (date/time).
  • For urgent needs (rent deposit, car repair to start a job), ask about One-Time TANF ($1,000).

Documents you’ll need (and what actually works)

  • First action: gather ID, proof of who lives with you, and income proof. Upload what you have and keep going.
  • HHSC verification rules are detailed here: Texas Works Handbook – Verifications. If you can’t get a specific document, ask for alternatives you can provide.

TANF documents checklist

What HHSC needs Examples that usually work Tips
Identity Driver’s license, state ID, passport, school ID If your ID is lost, ask HHSC what else they’ll accept and how to replace it
Social Security numbers SS cards or official SSA letters If pending with SSA, upload the SSA receipt
Proof of address Lease, landlord letter, mail to your name, shelter letter A signed landlord statement with phone number can work
Proof of who lives with you Birth certificates, school letters, medical records If you don’t have birth certs, request copies and upload receipt
Income Pay stubs (last 30 days), employer letter, child support printouts If cash income, a signed employer letter with contact info
Assets/resources Bank statements, vehicle title Ask about what HHSC counts and what they exclude
Child support status Court orders, OAG letters Good cause for safety? Tell HHSC and provide any protective orders
Child immunizations Shot records for kids under 6 Ask your clinic for a printout
School attendance Report card, attendance letter Upload screenshots if the school provides a parent portal

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If a document is hard to get, tell HHSC in writing through YourTexasBenefits secure messages and ask for more time or alternate proof.
  • Call 2-1-1 for help finding where to get copies (vital records, schools, clinics).

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Start by avoiding missed interviews and missing documents.
  • Frequent issues that cause denials or delays:
  • Not answering the interview phone call (wrong number on file, voicemail full, or unknown caller blocked).
  • Missing the deadline to upload pay stubs or other proof.
  • Not telling HHSC when your hours or pay drop (you may qualify after the change).
  • Skipping Choices appointments (work requirements) without telling your coach about child care or transportation problems.
  • Not telling HHSC about family violence and asking for “good cause.”
  • Thinking a relative caregiver can’t get help — they may be eligible for One‑Time TANF for Relatives ($1,000).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re denied for a fixable reason (missing proof), turn the documents in and ask about reopening the application.
  • If you disagree with a decision, you have the right to appeal (fair hearing). See: HHSC Fair Hearings (official info).

Appeals and fair hearings

  • Immediate step: watch the deadline on your notice — appeal on time.
  • If you disagree with HHSC’s decision, you can request a fair hearing. You usually must ask within the deadline on your notice (appeal windows are strict). Official info: HHSC Fair Hearings Handbook.
  • To start, call 2-1-1 or 1-877-541-7905, or follow instructions on your denial/closure notice to request a hearing. Keep copies of everything.
  • For free legal help, try statewide legal referral: TexasLawHelp.org – Find Legal Help (nonprofit).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your benefits stop during the appeal and you need cash immediately, ask about One-Time TANF ($1,000) or community help while you wait.
  • Call 2-1-1 for emergency support (rent, utilities, diapers, gas cards) in your county.

Plan B options if TANF isn’t approved

  • First action: ask HHSC about One‑Time TANF and local emergency funds.
  • Consider these if monthly TANF doesn’t work out:
  • One-Time TANF or One-Time TANF for Relatives — $1,000 single payment. Sources: Parents and Relatives.
  • SNAP food benefits — separate program with different income rules. Apply here: Apply for SNAP on YourTexasBenefits.com.
  • Medicaid/CHIP for kids — even if you don’t qualify for TANF, your children may qualify. Apply or manage here: YourTexasBenefits.com.
  • Child support services (no fee for TANF recipients; low fee otherwise): OAG Child Support | 1-800-252-8014.
  • Child care help while working/looking for work: find your Workforce board: Workforce Solutions office locator (TWC).
  • Emergency help (rent/utility/diapers): call 2-1-1 or search 211Texas.org.

Local organizations that actually help (statewide networks)

Diverse Communities: tailored notes and protections

  • Immediate step: tell HHSC and your caseworker about any language, disability, or safety needs up front.
  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: You have the same right to benefits and respectful treatment. If you face discrimination, ask for a supervisor and document it. You can also contact legal help via TexasLawHelp.org. HHSC provides interpretation and accessibility accommodations. Source: HHS Civil Rights Office.
  • Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Request reasonable accommodations for appointments and program requirements. If your child has a disability, you may have grounds for good cause adjustments to work requirements. Source: HHSC Disability Services & Accommodations.
  • Veteran single mothers: Ask your Workforce Solutions office about veteran priority for employment services and training. Source: TWC Veterans Programs.
  • Immigrant and refugee single moms: Children who are U.S. citizens can be eligible even if a parent is not. Only list immigration info for the people applying. Ask HHSC about “non‑applicant” parents and what info is required. Source: HHSC immigration and eligibility policies in Texas Works Handbook.
  • Tribal-specific resources: If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe, ask about tribal TANF or supportive services where available. Use 2-1-1 to find the nearest tribal liaison or services.
  • Rural single moms: If travel is an issue, ask HHSC for phone interviews and upload docs through YourTexasBenefits. Ask Workforce Solutions about remote meetings, transportation help, or gas cards.
  • Single fathers: TANF is for caregivers of any gender. If you’re the primary caretaker, you can apply.
  • Language access: Free interpreters are available through HHSC and the OAG for child support appointments. Ask for your preferred language. Source: HHS Civil Rights and Language Access.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re denied interpreters or accommodations, ask for a supervisor and contact the HHS Civil Rights Office. File a complaint if needed.

Region-by-region: how to connect with local offices quickly

Realistic timelines and expectations

  • Most important: respond to HHSC requests by the deadlines on your notices (they’re strict).
  • Application to decision often takes several weeks. Your timeline depends on how fast documents are turned in and interview is completed.
  • One-Time TANF can be faster if you meet criteria and supply proof of the specific short‑term need (for example, a job start letter and a rent deposit bill). Source: One-Time TANF rules (Texas HHS).

At-a-glance timeline checklist

Task Target timeline Tips
Submit application Same day you decide to apply Use YourTexasBenefits.com
Upload basic documents Within 7–10 days Upload what you have; tell HHSC what’s pending
Interview On or before the scheduled date Keep your phone on; voicemail set up
Choices orientation Within 1–2 weeks of approval (if required) Ask for child care/transport help
Decision Within HHSC standards (ask for your date) Check YourTexasBenefits account daily

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If approvals drag past your stated deadline, call 2-1-1 and ask for a status check or to speak with a supervisor.
  • Ask about One-Time TANF ($1,000) if you have a specific short‑term expense blocking work.

Practical tips that save time

  • Start with what HHSC must see first: ID, who lives with you, and proof of income.
  • Tips that make a difference:
  • Keep one PDF per item (e.g., all pay stubs in one file).
  • Put your case number on every page if you’re faxing or dropping off.
  • Tell HHSC about any job offers or hours changes right away (it can change your budget).
  • If you can’t get a document, upload a note explaining why and when you’ll get it.
  • Ask Workforce Solutions for help getting child care so you can meet work hours.

City-specific FAQs (Texas)

  • Note: for exact office addresses and direct local numbers, use the official state locators linked in each answer.
  • Houston, TX — Where do I go in person to talk to someone about TANF?
  • Dallas, TX — What if I miss my interview call?
    • Call 2-1-1 or 1-877-541-7905 the same day and ask to reschedule. Check YourTexasBenefits messages for a new appointment. If your case closes, reapply online: YourTexasBenefits.com.
  • San Antonio, TX — Can I get One-Time TANF for a rent deposit to start a new job?
    • Yes, if you meet eligibility and it’s a short‑term need tied to work stability. It’s $1,000 one time. Read the official rules: One-Time TANF (Texas HHS).
  • Austin, TX — I’m a kinship caregiver for my niece. Is there help?
  • El Paso, TX — I don’t have all documents yet. Should I still apply?
    • Yes. Apply at YourTexasBenefits.com and upload what you have. Tell HHSC what you’re waiting on. If you hit a wall, call 2-1-1 for help tracking down records and to locate your nearest office.

“What if” situations (real problems and how to handle them)

  • I can’t find the other parent for child support.
    • Tell HHSC and the OAG you’re willing to cooperate and give any info you have. The OAG will try to locate the other parent. Source: OAG Child Support | 1-800-252-8014.
  • I’m not safe if child support is pursued.
  • I don’t have child care to meet my Choices hours.
    • Tell your Choices coach and ask for support or revised activities. Workforce can help with child care referrals and transportation options. Source: TWC Choices Program.

Extra: quick reference tables you can skim

1) TANF options and quick links

Option Amount Best for Link
Monthly TANF See HHSC Payment Standard chart Ongoing very low income HHSC Payment Standards
One-Time TANF (parents) $1,000 Short‑term crisis to start/keep work One-Time TANF (Parents)
One-Time TANF (relatives) $1,000 Kinship caregivers One-Time TANF for Relatives

2) Who to contact for each step

Need Who to call or where to go Phone/URL
Apply / interview / documents HHSC (Your Texas Benefits) 2-1-1 or 1-877-541-7905
Work requirements Workforce Solutions (Choices) 1-888-469-5627
Child support OAG Child Support 1-800-252-8014
Local aid (rent, utilities, diapers) 2‑1‑1 Texas 2-1-1 or 1-877-541-7905

3) Choices weekly hours (typical)

Family situation Hours
Single parent, youngest child under 6 20 hours/week
Single parent, all children 6+ 30 hours/week
Good cause / safety issues Ask for an exemption or alternate plan

4) Application documents — fastest to slowest to get

Priority Document Why it matters
High ID, SSNs, proof of who lives with you Establishes the case
High Proof of income (stubs/employer letter) Determines eligibility
Medium Lease/bills Verifies address/expenses
Medium Child support orders or OAG letters Cooperation tracking
Medium Immunization/school records Required child conditions
Lower (but important) Bank/vehicle info Asset/resource test

5) If TANF is denied — quick Plan B

Reason you might be denied What to try next Where to go
Income just over limit Reapply if your hours/pay drop; apply for SNAP/Medicaid YourTexasBenefits.com
Not enough documents Ask to reopen when you have proof 2-1-1 / 1-877-541-7905
Work requirements conflict Tell Choices about barriers; ask for help Workforce locator
Safety concerns (child support) Request good cause (family violence) OAG Family Violence info

Real‑world examples (how families use TANF)

  • Houston: A mom got a job offer starting in 2 weeks but needed a 900∗∗rentdeposittomoveclosertowork.Sheappliedfor∗∗One‑TimeTANF∗∗(∗∗900** rent deposit to move closer to work. She applied for **One‑Time TANF** (**1,000), uploaded the job offer letter and lease. Workforce helped with transit passes for the first month. Sources: One-Time TANF rules (Texas HHS) and Workforce Solutions locator (TWC).
  • San Antonio: A grandparent caregiver secured One‑Time TANF for Relatives ($1,000) to buy beds and school supplies for two grandkids moving in. They used the HHSC office locator via 2-1-1 to file in person. Source: One-Time TANF for Relatives (HHS).
  • Dallas: A single mother with a 5‑year‑old completed her 20 hours/week Choices assignment by doing job search and workshops. Workforce arranged child care while she interviewed. Source: TWC Choices Program.

What if I can’t find the exact monthly amount online?

  • HHSC sometimes updates the TANF Payment Standard and Need Standard. The official live chart is here: TANF Need and Payment Standards (Texas Works Handbook A‑1324). If you can’t open the chart or need help reading it, call 2-1-1 or 1-877-541-7905 and ask the worker to tell you the current amount for your family size.
  • If you still cannot verify the exact current numbers, ask your HHSC caseworker to send the current Payment Standard and Need Standard with your appointment letter or via YourTexasBenefits messages.

What to do after approval

  • First action: read your decision notice for any deadlines and assignments (bolded dates).
  • If you’re required to participate in Choices, contact Workforce right away and ask for child care or transportation help if needed.
  • Keep income records — if your hours change, report within 10 days of the change to avoid overpayments. Source: Texas Works Handbook – Reporting requirements.
  • Renew on time. Watch YourTexasBenefits messages/mail for renewal dates and recertification interviews.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your case closes and you still need help, reapply the same day at YourTexasBenefits.com or call 2-1-1.
  • For gaps, ask about One-Time TANF ($1,000) or call 2-1-1 for emergency local aid.

Source list and verification notes (linked)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC), Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), the Texas Office of the Attorney General (OAG), 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, amounts, and procedures can change at any time. Always verify details directly with the relevant agency using the official links and phone numbers in this guide. Your eligibility and benefit amount depend on your exact household situation, documents, and current state policy.

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