Menu

TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in Washington

The Ultimate Guide to TANF (WorkFirst) for Single Mothers in Washington (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help Box


  • Apply online now at Washington Connection (official application portal). It takes about 20–30 minutes.
  • Call DSHS Customer Service at 877-501-2233 to apply by phone, reschedule interviews, or check your case.
  • Find your local DSHS Community Services Office (CSO) with the DSHS Office Locator. Many offices issue EBT cards on-site.
  • Facing a one-time crisis and prefer a lump sum instead of monthly TANF? Ask about Diversion Cash Assistance (DCA). See details at the DSHS DCA page.
  • Need an interpreter? Tell DSHS your language when you call 877-501-2233. Interpreters are free. See DSHS Language Help.
  • Domestic violence and safety concerns: You can claim “good cause” to not pursue child support. Start with DSHS/DCS Good Cause information and tell your DSHS worker right away.
  • Normal decision time for TANF is up to 30 days from application. See the rule at WAC 388-406-0040.

What TANF is in Washington (WorkFirst): What to know first

  • The program name in Washington is TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families). Employment services and requirements run under “WorkFirst.”
  • TANF provides monthly cash assistance on the Washington EBT Quest card and connects you to WorkFirst services: job search support, education or training, childcare, and barrier-removal help.
  • Washington has a 60‑month lifetime limit for adult TANF receipt, with limited hardship extensions. See WAC 388-484-0006 (time limits and extensions).
  • You apply through DSHS: online, by phone at 877-501-2233, or at a local CSO. See How to apply for services (DSHS).

Reality check: TANF cash amounts are modest, and WorkFirst participation can be demanding. If your situation is unstable (housing, health, safety), tell your worker. Washington does allow good cause, exemptions, and hardship extensions—but you have to ask and provide proof.

Who qualifies (eligibility overview)

Start with this: If your child lives with you in Washington and your family’s income/resources are low, apply. Eligibility can be complex, and DSHS will budget your exact case.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re denied or your grant is lower than expected, ask for an explanation in writing and request a review or a fair hearing. Start at DSHS Appeals / Fair Hearings or contact the Office of Administrative Hearings at 800-583-8271 (OAH website).

How much cash can I get? (2025 TANF payment standards)

The maximum monthly TANF cash grant (before budgeting your income) depends on family size. Washington publishes official payment standards in rule.

Source: WAC 388-478-0020 – Payment standards for cash assistance (official rule; check for updates).

Table: TANF monthly maximum cash grant (Payment Standard)

Family Size Max Monthly TANF Grant (Payment Standard)
1 $480
2 $611
3 $752
4 $876
5 $1,021
6 $1,147

Notes:

  • These figures reflect Washington’s 15% cash grant increase adopted in recent budgets and codified in the current payment standard. Always confirm the latest table at WAC 388-478-0020.
  • Your actual grant may be lower depending on “countable” income, sanctions, or other rules.

Real‑world example:

  • A single mom with two kids (family of 3) with no income would see a maximum of about $752/month on the Quest EBT card once approved. If she earns part‑time wages, DSHS applies the 50% earned‑income disregard (see below), which can keep part of the grant in place for a time.

How DSHS budgets your income (with examples)

Washington disregards half of your gross earned income when calculating TANF. This helps you keep some cash benefit while working.

Budgeting examples (illustrations; DSHS will run your precise numbers):

Table: Income budgeting examples for a family of 3 (payment standard $752)

Scenario Gross Earned Income 50% Disregard Countable Income TANF Payment (approx.)
No earnings $0 $0 $0 $752
Part-time work (~20 hrs/week @ $17/hr) $1,473 $737 $736 $16
Low part-time (~10 hrs/week @ $16/hr) $640 $320 $320 $432

Notes:

  • These are rough illustrations. DSHS may apply other deductions, child support pass‑through, and various rules. Always rely on your official eligibility notice.

How to apply (fastest routes first)

  • Apply online: Washington Connection (official). Select TANF/Cash.
  • Apply by phone: Call DSHS at 877-501-2233. You can complete the application and schedule your interview.
  • Apply in person or drop off paperwork: Use the DSHS Office Locator. Call ahead; some offices have limited walk‑in hours or kiosk options.
  • Paper application: Download forms via DSHS forms (Cash/Medical/Food). You can mail, fax, or drop off at a CSO.

Timelines:

  • Decision deadline: DSHS must process TANF applications within 30 days. See WAC 388-406-0040.
  • Interview: Usually within a week of applying, but it varies. Missed calls can delay approval. Keep your voicemail open and return calls quickly.
  • EBT card: Mailed cards often arrive in 5–10 days after approval. Many CSOs can issue on-site; call your CSO to confirm.

Required documents (bring what you have; DSHS can help you get the rest):

  • Photo ID for adult.
  • SSNs (or proof you’ve applied) for each person requesting benefits.
  • Proof of Washington residence (lease, letter from landlord, shelter letter, utility bill).
  • Proof of income (pay stubs, employer letter, unemployment award).
  • Child support order or info if applicable.
  • Childcare costs (if seeking WorkFirst childcare help).
  • Pregnancy verification (for PWA).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you get no decision by day 30, call 877-501-2233 and ask for a supervisor or file a complaint. You can also request a fair hearing at DSHS Fair Hearings or via OAH at 800-583-8271.

WorkFirst: participation, exemptions, and real timelines

Start here: If you’re approved for TANF and not exempt, expect a WorkFirst orientation and a participation plan. Keep every appointment or call to reschedule before you miss it.

  • Participation hours: Typically 20 hours/week if your youngest child is under 6, and 30 hours/week if 6 or older (federal standards). WorkFirst customizes activities: job search, basic education, training, work experience, treatment, housing stability, and more. See DSHS WorkFirst overview.
  • Infant exemption: You can get up to 12 months lifetime exemption from WorkFirst while caring for your own infant under age one; it can be used all at once or in parts. See WAC 388-310-0300.
  • Good cause and barrier removal: If you can’t participate due to domestic violence, health conditions, homelessness, or caregiving needs, tell your worker. Washington has a “Family Violence Option.” See DSHS Family Violence.
  • Support services: WorkFirst can help with transportation (bus passes, gas cards), work clothing, tools, testing fees, training costs, and referrals. Ask your case manager what’s available to you.
  • Childcare while you participate: WorkFirst can connect you to Working Connections Child Care (WCCC). Learn more at the official DCYF page: Working Connections Child Care (DCYF). Fees and income limits vary—confirm current rules at DCYF.

Reality check: WorkFirst appointments can stack up and feel overwhelming. If something on your plan won’t work (transportation, childcare, schedule), say so immediately and ask to revise the plan.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re facing a sanction or already sanctioned, ask for a case conference and propose a realistic plan. If denied, consider a fair hearing: DSHS Fair Hearings, OAH 800-583-8271. Document barriers (doctor letters, shelter letters, court paperwork).

Time limits and extensions (don’t wait until month 59)

Washington enforces a 60‑month lifetime TANF limit for adults, with specific hardship extensions. Extensions are not automatic—you must request them and provide proof.

Key rules and sources:

Summary of time limit extensions (examples; see rule for full list):

Table: Common TANF time limit extensions in Washington

Extension Type What qualifies (examples) Documentation usually needed
Domestic/family violence Safety risk if TANF closes or if you must meet work rules Protection order, police report, DV advocate letter, or your own sworn statement if safe
Caring for a disabled family member You must provide essential care that prevents full participation Doctor/provider statement
Severe personal disability You can’t engage in required work due to health Doctor/provider statement; SSI/SSA paperwork if applicable
Homelessness/hardship Recent homelessness or extreme hardship affecting work Shelter letter, eviction notice, outreach worker letter
Other good cause Case-by-case per rule Anything that proves the barrier

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Appeal a denial immediately. Deadlines matter—file within 90 days of the notice to preserve your rights; if you want to keep benefits while appealing, you generally must appeal quickly (usually within 10 days or by the effective date—see your notice). Start at DSHS Fair Hearings or call OAH at 800-583-8271.

Diversion Cash Assistance (DCA): one-time help instead of monthly TANF

If you have a short‑term crisis and can avoid ongoing TANF with a one‑time payment, ask for DCA at application.

  • What it is: A one‑time cash payment to solve an immediate need (e.g., car repair, job tools, utility deposit, moving costs).
  • How much: Up to about $1,250 within a 12‑month period (maximum set by DSHS policy). Verify the current cap at the official page: Diversion Cash Assistance (DSHS).
  • Payback rule: If you go on TANF within 12 months after taking DCA, DSHS may set up a recovery/repayment (it’s essentially an advance to avoid monthly TANF).
  • Timeline: DCA can be issued relatively quickly once approved—often within 3–5 business days depending on the vendor and your documentation.

Table: DCA quick facts

Topic Details
Purpose Short‑term cash to solve a crisis instead of monthly TANF
Typical max About $1,250 per 12 months (confirm current amount with DSHS)
Use cases Car repair, rent/utility deposits, tools/fees to start work
Repayment May be required if you go on TANF within 12 months
Where to apply Check “DCA” on your TANF application or ask your worker

Real-world example:

  • Your car needs $900 in repairs to keep your job. DCA can directly pay the shop so you can keep working and avoid monthly TANF. If the fix resolves the crisis, DSHS may approve DCA.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If DCA is denied, ask for the reason in writing and whether a different fund (WorkFirst support services, community funds) could pay. Consider applying for monthly TANF if a one‑time payment won’t fix the situation.

Pregnancy and TANF (PWA)

If you are pregnant and otherwise eligible, you may qualify for Washington’s Pregnancy Assistance (PWA), which provides cash assistance with similar payment standards to TANF.

  • Overview and how to apply: Use the same TANF application at Washington Connection and indicate pregnancy, or apply via 877-501-2233.
  • Payment standards: Generally align with TANF standards per family size. Confirm current amounts at WAC 388-478-0020.
  • Medical coverage: Apply for Washington Apple Health (Medicaid) alongside PWA. See HCA Apple Health.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If PWA is denied or delayed, ask DSHS what proof is missing (doctor letter, expected due date). For urgent medical coverage, contact the Health Care Authority or apply directly for Apple Health at Washington Healthplanfinder.

Child support cooperation, pass‑through, and safety

  • Cooperation: TANF generally requires you to cooperate with the Division of Child Support (DCS).
  • Safety first: If child support cooperation puts you or your child at risk (e.g., domestic violence), you can claim “good cause.” Start this conversation early with your DSHS worker and review DCS Good Cause guidance.
  • Pass‑through: Washington passes through up to 100∗∗(onechild)or∗∗100** (one child) or **200 (two or more children) in monthly current support to TANF families and does not count it against your TANF grant. See DCS: Receiving support while on TANF.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If DCS actions jeopardize your safety, contact a DV advocate and tell DSHS immediately. You can also ask to speak with a DCS supervisor and request fair hearing rights if TANF is being reduced or closed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing the interview call. Keep your phone on, voicemail clear, and return calls fast.
  • Not telling your worker about barriers (no childcare, no bus, health issues). WorkFirst can adjust plans or approve good cause—but only if they know.
  • Skipping paperwork. If you can’t get a document, ask DSHS to help verify another way (W‑2s, collateral contacts, landlord letters).
  • Ignoring child support safety issues. If there’s any risk, state it plainly and ask about good cause.
  • Waiting too long to appeal. Your notice has a deadline. Appeal rights are time‑sensitive—move quickly.
  • Not asking about DCA. If a one‑time payment solves your crisis, DCA might be faster than monthly TANF.
  • Thinking you must quit your job to qualify. With the 50% earned‑income disregard, some families still qualify while working.

Application and decision timeline (what to expect)

Table: Typical TANF application steps and timing

Step What happens Typical timing
Submit application Online, phone, paper, or in person Same day
Interview Phone or in person Within 3–10 days (varies)
Provide proofs Pay stubs, ID, residency, etc. Within your notice’s due date (often 10 days)
Decision Approval/denial or need-more-info By day 30 from application
EBT card Mailed or issued at CSO Mailed 5–10 days after approval; same-day at some CSOs
WorkFirst orientation Plan activities or exemptions Within 1–2 weeks after approval

Source: Processing deadline in WAC 388-406-0040.

City- and County-Specific FAQs (Washington)

Seattle/King County

Spokane County

Tacoma/Pierce County

Yakima County

Vancouver/Clark County

Local organizations and charities (statewide and regional)

  • Washington 2‑1‑1: Dial 211 or visit WA 211 (official) for food, housing, and utility help statewide.
  • Catholic Community Services (regional): Services vary by county, including HEN in some areas. Start at CCS/CHS Washington.
  • Salvation Army (regional): Rent/utility assistance and emergency services. Find your local site via Salvation Army Northwest Division.
  • Solid Ground (King County): Housing stability and financial programs. See Solid Ground.
  • Hopelink (North & East King County): Food, housing, transportation. See Hopelink.
  • YWCA (multiple counties): Housing, DV support, employment services. Start at YWCA Seattle | King | Snohomish or your local YWCA.
  • Northwest Justice Project: Civil legal aid (benefits appeals, housing). See NJP – Get Legal Help or call 888-201-1014.

Diverse communities: tailored tips and official links

LGBTQ+ single mothers

  • You have the same access to TANF/WorkFirst. If you face discrimination, report it to DSHS and consider civil rights help.
  • For support services, see Lifelong (health, case management) and local LGBTQ+ centers. For statewide referrals, call 211.

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children

  • Ask about WorkFirst good cause or exemptions if disability affects participation. See WAC 388-310-0300 (participation/exemptions).
  • If caring for a disabled child, request a time‑limit extension when needed (see WAC 388-484-0006).
  • Also apply for SSI if appropriate and ask DSHS for help with medical evidence.

Veteran single mothers

  • TANF is available if you meet eligibility. Also check VA programs and county veterans assistance.
  • For benefits navigation, see Washington Department of Veterans Affairs.
  • If you receive VA benefits, report amounts to DSHS; they may count as income.

Immigrant/refugee single moms

  • Some “qualified” immigrants are eligible for TANF; others may qualify for state-funded aid. See WAC 388-424-0001.
  • If you are not eligible yourself, your U.S. citizen or qualified children may still qualify.
  • Ask for a free interpreter at 877-501-2233 and review DSHS Language Help.

Tribal-specific resources

  • Some Washington tribes operate Tribal TANF with their own rules. If you are a tribal member, ask your tribe or check the federal directory: HHS ACF – Tribal TANF.
  • If you live on or near a reservation, ask whether you must apply through Tribal TANF or state TANF.

Rural single moms with limited access

  • If you lack internet or transport, apply by phone at 877-501-2233 and ask about document alternatives (mail, fax, electronic upload).
  • Ask for WorkFirst support services like gas cards or mileage reimbursement for appointments.
  • Use 211 to find the closest in‑person help.

Single fathers

  • TANF and WorkFirst are available to single dads too. The rules and supports are the same, including child support cooperation and good cause options.
  • If your youngest child is under 6, the 20 hours/week standard applies; otherwise 30 hours/week.

Language access

  • Tell DSHS your language when you call 877-501-2233. Interpreters and translated notices are free. See DSHS Language Help.

Sanctions, denials, and appeals

If you miss WorkFirst requirements without good cause, DSHS may reduce your grant or close the case. Always talk to your case manager early.

  • Ask for a case staffing and propose a plan you can do (with childcare, transportation, and health needs considered).
  • If DSHS denies, reduces, or closes your TANF, you have the right to a fair hearing. Act fast.
  • Start at DSHS Fair Hearings or call OAH at 800-583-8271.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

How TANF works with other programs (quick notes)

  • Basic Food (SNAP): Apply together; your EBT card will carry both cash and food benefits. For current SNAP maximums and income test, see USDA SNAP State Directory – Washington and DSHS Basic Food.
  • Apple Health (Medicaid): Apply together; most TANF families qualify. See HCA Apple Health.
  • Working Connections Child Care: Childcare help while you work or do WorkFirst. See DCYF WCCC. Income limits and co‑pays change; confirm at DCYF.
  • Housing and Essential Needs (HEN): For some disabled adults not on TANF; administered locally. See WA Commerce – HEN.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re denied one program, you may still qualify for another. Reapply when your situation changes.

Quick reference tables

Table: Where and how to apply

Option Link/Phone Notes
Apply online Washington Connection (official) Fastest route
Apply by phone 877-501-2233 DSHS Customer Service
Find local CSO DSHS Office Locator Ask about EBT on‑site
Forms library DSHS Forms & Publications Paper applications and verification forms
Appeals DSHS Fair Hearings / OAH 800-583-8271 Appeal within your notice deadline

Table: Key rules at a glance (official sources)

Topic Official rule/page
Payment standards WAC 388-478-0020
50% earned income disregard WAC 388-450-0162
60-month time limit and extensions WAC 388-484-0006
WorkFirst participation/exemptions WAC 388-310-0300
DCA overview DSHS DCA
Good cause (child support) DCS Good Cause
Residency WAC 388-468-0005
Resources WAC 388-470-0005

Table: Documentation checklist (bring what you can)

Category Examples
Identity State ID, driver’s license, passport
Residency Lease, landlord letter, shelter letter, utility bill
Income Pay stubs, employer letter, unemployment award
Child-related Birth certificates, school letters, child support order
Expenses (if asked) Childcare bills, rent receipts, utility bills
Special circumstances DV advocate letter, doctor’s note, eviction notice

What to do if TANF doesn’t come through (Plan B)

  • Ask about DCA if a one‑time payment could solve the problem. See DSHS DCA.
  • Apply for SNAP while TANF is pending: DSHS Basic Food. Some households qualify for expedited SNAP within 7 days.
  • Apply for Apple Health: HCA Apple Health.
  • Use 211 for emergency rent/utility help while you wait: WA 211.
  • If you’re denied, appeal quickly and seek legal aid: DSHS Fair Hearings, OAH 800-583-8271, NJP 888-201-1014.

Real‑world examples

  • Working part‑time with childcare needs
    Maria works 15 hours/week at 17/hour∗∗andhastwokids.DSHSdisregards∗∗5017/hour** and has two kids. DSHS disregards **50%** of her earnings (about **510 of 1,020∗∗),sopartofherTANFgrantcontinues(budgetedagainstthe∗∗1,020**), so part of her TANF grant continues (budgeted against the **752 standard for three). WorkFirst sets up job search plus childcare through WCCC so she can add hours.
  • Safety concerns around child support
    Tasha has a protection order. She tells DSHS she cannot safely pursue child support. DSHS notes “good cause,” waives cooperation, and proceeds with TANF. See DCS Good Cause.
  • One-time car repair instead of TANF
    Keisha needs $1,100 for a transmission repair to keep her job. DSHS approves DCA and pays the vendor. She keeps working and doesn’t need monthly TANF.

“What if” guide: common scenarios

  • I missed my WorkFirst appointment.
    Call 877-501-2233 the same day. Ask to reschedule and to avoid sanction. If you had a good reason (sick child, no bus, safety issue), say so.
  • My EBT card didn’t arrive.
    Call 877-501-2233 or log in to your Washington Connection account to check status. Ask your CSO if on‑site issuance is available.
  • My landlord won’t give a letter.
    Tell DSHS; they can use other proofs (mail, collateral contact, lease screenshot, etc.).
  • I started a job.
    Report new income within the deadline on your approval notice (often 10 days). The 50% disregard can help your grant taper, not drop off a cliff. See WAC 388-450-0162.

What to bring to your WorkFirst appointment and how to prepare

  • A simple weekly schedule showing when you can participate (consider school pick‑ups, bus routes, and work hours).
  • Any barrier proofs: doctor notes, therapy appointment letters, DV advocate letter, school IEPs.
  • A list of job leads or training interests (CNA, CDL, trades, IT support, etc.). WorkFirst can often support short‑term credentials.
  • Transportation plan: bus route numbers, gas costs—ask for the exact support you need.

If you need help finding your local office or case information

Keywords people use (so you can search smarter)

  • “how to apply for TANF in Washington online,” “Washington TANF payment amounts 2025,” “WorkFirst participation hours WA,” “Diversion Cash Assistance Washington amount,” “TANF time limit extension Washington,” “TANF good cause domestic violence WA,” “find DSHS office near me.”

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Washington State DSHS, DCYF, HCA/Apple Health, WAC/RCW rules, 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, dollar amounts, and procedures can change at any time. Always confirm current eligibility, benefit amounts, deadlines, and application procedures directly with Washington DSHS, DCYF, HCA, and the official rules linked in this guide. Links:

This guide is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.

🏛️More Washington Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Washington

Related Posts