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TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in West Virginia

TANF in West Virginia (WV WORKS): The Ultimate Real‑World Guide for Single Mothers

Last updated: August 2025

Quick help box (scan this first):


  • Apply for WV TANF (WV WORKS) online now: WV PATH application portal — official state site for cash, SNAP, Medicaid, and child care.
  • Find your DHHR/Department of Human Services county office (addresses and phones): County Office Locator.
  • Expect a decision in roughly 30–45 days after you submit a complete application. Watch for an interview letter or call from your worker.
  • Bring documents: photo ID, SSNs (or proof applied), birth certificates, proof of WV address, last 30 days of income, child care/child support info, bank statements.
  • If you have very little income and food now, apply for SNAP too. Households that qualify may get “expedited” SNAP in 7 days: start at Apply for SNAP via WV PATH and see federal rules at USDA SNAP Expedited Service.
  • Work activities are part of WV WORKS. Single parents typically must do 20–30 hours/week depending on your child’s age. See WV’s policy links under “Work Rules” below and coordinate with WorkForce West Virginia.
  • Safety first: if child support cooperation would risk your safety, ask your worker for a “good cause” waiver right away. See Bureau for Child Support Enforcement — Good Cause.
  • If denied or delayed, you can ask for a Fair Hearing. Deadlines are short (often 90 days). Use the hearing rights on your notice or ask your local office via the County Office Locator.

What TANF Is Called in West Virginia and What It Does

Action first: apply or check status at WV PATH (official).

In West Virginia, TANF cash assistance is called WV WORKS, administered by the West Virginia Department of Human Services (formerly DHHR) through the Bureau for Family Assistance. The program provides a monthly cash payment loaded to an EBT card plus help getting and keeping work, child care assistance links, transportation help, and referrals.

Official program pages and policy:

WV WORKS at a glance (table)

Topic What to know Where to verify
Program name WV WORKS (West Virginia’s TANF cash assistance) WV WORKS program page
Who it serves Low‑income families with a minor child or a pregnant person meeting rules Policy Manuals
How to apply Online at WV PATH, or at your county office WV PATH • County Office Locator
Decision timeline Generally within about 30–45 days after a complete application Your case notices • Policy Manuals
Time limit Up to 60 months lifetime (with some exemptions/hardship waivers) Policy Manuals
Work rules Typically 20–30 hours/week for most single parents; some exemptions WV WORKS program page
Payment method EBT Card (cash) Your EBT card packet and local office
Appeals Short deadlines, often 90 days from the notice date Your denial/benefit change notice; county office links above

Reality check: WV WORKS cash is modest. It won’t cover all monthly expenses, but it can stabilize you while you secure work hours, child care, and support services. The most successful cases usually combine WV WORKS with SNAP, WIC, Medicaid/CHIP, child care assistance, and help from local organizations.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you don’t qualify for WV WORKS, apply for SNAP, WIC, Medicaid/CHIP, and LIHEAP right away via WV PATH and the resources linked below.
  • Ask about Diversion options (a one‑time cash alternative if you can avoid ongoing TANF with a short‑term fix). See the WV WORKS program page for Diversion if available.
  • Use 211 (dial 211) or West Virginia 211 for rent/utility/food referrals and local charities.

Are You Eligible? Start With These Rules

First step: if you think you might qualify, apply now at WV PATH. The application locks in your filing date while you gather documents.

Eligibility basics (always verified against the official WV WORKS policy):

  • You must live in West Virginia and plan to stay here. Source: WV WORKS policy/manuals.
  • You must be pregnant or caring for a child under 18 (or under 19 if still in high school), and meet relationship/caretaker rules. Source: WV WORKS policy/manuals.
  • You must meet financial eligibility: WV uses payment standards and “countable income” rules (earned income disregards, child support, and other income are counted under state policy). Exact amounts are in the official payment standard tables. Source: WV WORKS policy/manuals.
  • You must cooperate with child support unless you have “good cause” (domestic violence, safety risks, rape/incest, or other approved reasons). Source: BCSE — Good Cause & Cooperation.
  • Most adults must do work activities (or be temporarily exempt) and sign a Personal Responsibility Contract (PRC). Source: WV WORKS program page.

If you’re not sure: apply. Workers will calculate countable income using the state’s rules and tell you if you’re eligible.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re over the income/resource limits for WV WORKS, you may still qualify for SNAP, WIC, Medicaid/CHIP, and child care. Apply via WV PATH.
  • If child support cooperation is unsafe, immediately request “good cause” with your WV WORKS worker and the BCSE. You can share a protective order, police report, or a statement from a domestic violence advocate. For confidential help, contact the WV Coalition Against Domestic Violence or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233.

How to Apply (Step‑by‑Step) and What to Expect

Action first: file your application today at WV PATH. You can start it now and upload documents as you get them.

Application steps:

  • Apply online at WV PATH. You can also apply in person or request a paper form at your county office found via the County Office Locator.
  • Watch for a mail, phone, or portal message about your interview or orientation. Missing this can delay or deny your case.
  • Complete your interview and submit any missing documents. Upload through PATH or take them to your county office.
  • Sign your Personal Responsibility Contract (PRC) and complete orientation/work referrals (often through WorkForce West Virginia).
  • Check your PATH messages and mail for your decision. If approved, you’ll receive an EBT card and your first cash deposit on the schedule the state sets.

Application timelines (typical, not a guarantee):

  • If your application is complete and you respond quickly, many decisions arrive in about 30–45 days. Check the date on your application receipt and your case notices. Source: State policy/manual timeliness standards at BFA Policy Manuals.
  • If you’re missing documents or miss an interview, the clock can reset, and your case may be denied for failure to complete.

Where to get live help:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t get through by phone, go in person to your county office (locations via the County Office Locator).
  • If approved for SNAP but still waiting on WV WORKS, ask your worker if anything is missing and whether a collateral contact can verify information quickly.
  • If your case is denied and you think the decision is wrong, request a Fair Hearing immediately (usually within 90 days; check your notice for the exact deadline).

Documents Checklist (table)

Bring as many of these as you can. If you’re missing something, tell your worker — there are other ways to verify.

Item Examples Where to get it
Identity Driver’s license, state ID, school ID DMV, school
Social Security numbers SSN card; printout; proof of application SSA office/SSA.gov receipt
Proof of pregnancy/child Birth certificate, hospital record, prenatal record, school letter Hospital, Vital Records, school
Address Lease, utility bill, landlord letter Landlord, utility company
Income last 30 days Pay stubs, employer letter, unemployment records Employer, Workforce WV
Child support Court order, BCSE printout BCSE
Resources Bank statement, vehicle title Bank, DMV
Immigration status (if applicable) USCIS documents USCIS/attorney
Expenses (helps with budgeting rules) Child care receipts, rent/utilities Provider/landlord/utility company

How Much Cash Can You Receive?

Most readers want a straight dollar figure. West Virginia sets “payment standards” by family size and subtracts your “countable income” using specific state rules (earned income disregards, deductions, etc.). Because these figures can change, WV posts the official payment standard table and countable income rules in its policy manual.

How the calculation works (in plain language):

  • The state sets a maximum payment for your family size (“payment standard”).
  • The state figures “countable income” after certain disregards for earnings.
  • Your monthly cash is generally: payment standard minus countable income. The result cannot be negative.

Real‑world example (how workers look at it):

  • A single mom in Morgantown with two kids has part‑time earnings. The worker applies the earned income disregard, checks what counts, and compares the result to the payment standard for a 3‑person household. If the countable income is lower than the payment standard, she receives a monthly WV WORKS payment for the difference. If it’s higher, she’s ineligible for cash but may get support services, referrals, and other benefits.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your earnings push you over the cash limit, ask your worker about “support services” you may still qualify for while you work (transportation assistance, work clothes/tools, and child care help through the child care subsidy). See Child Care Assistance.
  • If your benefit seems too low, ask for a written “budget” and how countable income was computed; correct any errors and, if needed, request a Fair Hearing (deadline often 90 days from your notice).

Work Rules, Orientation, and Support Services

Action first: complete any required WV WORKS orientation and connect with WorkForce West Virginia quickly. Missing appointments can reduce or stop benefits.

Work rules (key points):

  • Single parents typically must do 20–30 hours/week of approved activities, depending on the age of your youngest child and your situation. See WV’s policy links: WV WORKS program page and Policy Manuals.
  • Approved activities may include employment, job search, job readiness classes, vocational education, GED/HS completion, work experience, and community service, subject to limits in WV policy.
  • If you have barriers (no transportation, child care needs, health issues, domestic violence), tell your worker right away. WV WORKS can fund or arrange support services if listed in your PRC.

Support services WV may provide (examples; specifics are in WV policy and your PRC):

  • Transportation assistance (bus passes, gas cards/reimbursements).
  • Work gear/uniforms, licensing fees, short‑term training costs.
  • Child care assistance via the state subsidy program: WV Child Care (official).
  • Referrals to adult education/GED and WorkForce WV programs: WorkForce West Virginia.

Sanctions and good cause:

  • If you miss required activities without approved “good cause,” WV can reduce or stop your cash grant under state sanction policy. If something happens (car breakdown, child illness, safety concerns), contact your worker immediately, provide proof, and ask for good cause. See policy links at Policy Manuals.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If childcare or transportation is the problem, ask to update your PRC for supportive services. If unavailable, ask for remote/alternative activities or a temporary exemption with documentation.
  • If sanctioned, ask for the reason and the steps to cure the sanction. If you disagree, request a Fair Hearing by the deadline on your notice (often 90 days).

Work & Support Services quick view (table)

Item What to know Where to verify
Orientation Mandatory in most cases County office notices • WV WORKS page
Weekly hours Generally 20–30 hours/week for single parents (age of youngest child matters) Policy Manuals
Child care Apply through WV Child Care subsidy; co‑pays vary by income WV Child Care (official)
Transportation Ask your worker; included in PRC if approved County office/PRC
Sanctions Cash can be reduced or stopped if non‑compliant; you can cure or appeal Policy Manuals

Time Limits and Exemptions

Action first: ask your worker how many TANF months you have already used. It matters for planning.

  • WV WORKS follows the federal lifetime TANF limit of up to 60 months for most families, with some hardship and domestic violence exceptions available under state policy. Source: Policy Manuals.
  • “Counting” rules matter. Some months may not count if you’re fully state‑funded or under certain exemptions. Confirm with your worker in writing.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re nearing 60 months, talk with your worker about hardship extensions, domestic violence waivers, disability accommodations (if you or your child has a disability), or moving to other supports like SNAP, WIC, Medicaid/CHIP, and child care assistance.
  • Get help from Legal Aid of West Virginia if your time count looks wrong.

Child Support Cooperation and “Good Cause” for Safety

Action first: if there’s a safety risk, tell BOTH your WV WORKS worker and Child Support (BCSE) immediately.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your good cause request is denied, ask for the denial in writing and consult Legal Aid of West Virginia. Keep all documents and deadlines.

Appeals and Fair Hearings

Action first: read the back of your notice and mark your appeal deadline.

  • You generally have a short window (commonly up to 90 days) to request a Fair Hearing for TANF decisions; check your notice for the exact date. Procedures are set by the state’s administrative appeal rules. Start by contacting your county office via the County Office Locator to ask where to file.
  • Free legal support: Legal Aid of West Virginia.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If the hearing date is far out and you need help now, apply for other programs (SNAP/WIC/Medicaid/LIHEAP) and local aid (see “Local Organizations” below) while you wait.

Related Benefits That Often Go With WV WORKS

Action first: submit or update these applications through WV PATH.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re denied for one program, you may still qualify for another. Keep applying and appeal when necessary. For housing waitlists, keep your mailing address updated and check back regularly.

Benefit stack (table)

Benefit Who it helps Where to apply Key timing/notes
WV WORKS (TANF) Low‑income families with kids; cash + work support WV PATH Decision in about 30–45 days when complete
SNAP Food benefits on EBT WV PATH Expedited cases in 7 days if eligible
WIC Pregnant/postpartum; kids under 5 West Virginia WIC Clinic appointment required
Medicaid/WVCHIP Health coverage for families WV PATH Coverage start varies; respond fast
Child Care Subsidy Helps pay for care so you can work/attend WV Child Care Co‑pays vary by income
LIHEAP Heat/energy support Utility Assistance Crisis programs open/close seasonally

Common Mistakes to Avoid (and How to Fix Them)

  • Waiting to apply until you have every document. File first at WV PATH to lock in your date, then add documents.
  • Missing the interview/orientation letter. Check your mail and PATH messages daily until you’re approved.
  • Not telling your worker about barriers (no child care, no car, domestic violence). These can be “good cause” or allow PRC changes so you’re not sanctioned.
  • Assuming “I make too much” without a budget. WV uses specific disregards. Ask for a written budget.
  • Letting mail pile up. Deadlines like 10 days for verifications or 90 days to appeal go fast. Open everything and respond quickly.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you missed a deadline, submit what’s needed anyway and ask to reopen. If denied, file an appeal immediately and keep applying for related benefits.

Real‑World Examples (West Virginia)

These examples show how WV WORKS is applied. Exact dollar amounts depend on WV’s payment standards and your countable income — see the policy links to confirm.

  • Beckley (Raleigh County): A mom with a newborn asks for a good cause waiver for child support due to safety concerns. She shares a protective order and a letter from a local domestic violence advocate. The worker approves good cause and moves forward with her cash case and PRC activities that can be done from home for a short period. Sources: BCSE Good Cause, WV WORKS program page.
  • Martinsburg (Berkeley County): A mom working 18 hours/week at a retailer gets her schedule bumped to 26 hours. Her worker updates the PRC and adds transportation assistance. She keeps her case by meeting hourly requirements and starts a credential program through WorkForce WV. Sources: WorkForce West Virginia, WV WORKS program page.
  • Huntington (Cabell County): A mom is over the cash limit but still gets child care subsidy and SNAP. She uses WIC for formula and LIHEAP during a winter crisis. Sources: Child Care, WIC, SNAP via PATH, LIHEAP.

Required Documents, Interviews, and Verifications

Action first: upload what you have in PATH within 10 days of any worker request (or the date shown on your notice).

  • If you can’t get a document in time, ask if a collateral contact (employer, landlord, school) can verify for you.
  • Keep copies of everything you submit.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If mail is slow, bring documents in person to your county office (locations/phones at the County Office Locator) and ask them to date‑stamp a copy.

Timelines you’ll see (table)

Step Typical timing Notes
Application filed Same day you submit Keep your confirmation/receipt
Interview/orientation Often within the first 2–3 weeks Watch mail and PATH messages
Worker requests for info Usually 10 days to respond Ask for more time if needed
Decision About 30–45 days after a complete app Varies with workload and completeness
Appeals Often 90 days from notice date Check your notice for the exact deadline

Local Organizations, Churches, and Nonprofits That Help

Action first: dial 211 or visit West Virginia 211 to search food, rent, utilities, and crisis help near you.

Established statewide or regional resources:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If funds are out this month, ask when to check back and add multiple programs (church pantries, community centers, township funds) through 211.

Diverse Communities: Targeted Tips and Resources

LGBTQ+ single mothers:

  • For name/gender marker updates on IDs (which can affect benefits files), get help from legal clinics via ACLU of West Virginia or Legal Aid of West Virginia. Discrimination is not allowed in benefit programs; report issues to your county office supervisors.

Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child:

Veteran single mothers:

Immigrant/refugee single moms:

  • Some non‑citizens are eligible for TANF (refugees, asylees, certain LPRs). Eligibility is complex — apply and let the agency review. For immigration legal aid, see Catholic Charities West Virginia programs or Legal Aid of West Virginia. Language access: ask for free interpretation at the county office; it’s your right.

Tribal‑specific resources:

  • West Virginia has recognized American Indian individuals and families living across the state. If you are a citizen of a federally recognized tribe, ask your worker about tribal TANF or supportive services in neighboring states if applicable. For federal programs, see BIA — Financial Assistance and Social Services.

Rural single moms with limited access:

  • If the office is far, ask about phone interviews, mobile document upload through PATH, and mail‑in options. Request transportation help in your PRC. For broadband or device issues, many libraries help with scanning/uploading.

Single fathers:

  • All caretaker relatives can apply, including dads, grandparents, aunts/uncles. The same rules apply. Ask for child support good cause if there are safety issues.

Language access:

  • County offices must provide interpreters at no cost. Ask for translated notices when available. Bring a trusted adult if you need support, but the state should still provide a qualified interpreter.

Resources by Region (Find Your Local Office)

Action first: find your county office address and phone through the official locator:

Use this to locate the correct place for Kanawha (Charleston), Cabell (Huntington), Monongalia (Morgantown), Raleigh (Beckley), Berkeley (Martinsburg), and all other counties. Ask the front desk for WV WORKS intake, orientation scheduling, and document drop‑off locations.

City‑Specific FAQs (Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, Beckley, Martinsburg)

Charleston (Kanawha County)

  • Where do I apply for WV WORKS? Apply online at WV PATH or find the Kanawha County office via the County Office Locator.
  • Is there public transit help? Ask to add transportation assistance to your PRC. You can also request WorkForce WV referrals: WorkForce West Virginia.
  • I missed my orientation. What now? Call the office from the locator and ask to reschedule. Sanctions can apply if you don’t cure. Appeal rights are typically 90 days.
  • Where can I get emergency help? Dial 211 or check United Way of Central West Virginia.
  • Can I get child care quickly? Apply for the subsidy here: WV Child Care. Tell your WV WORKS worker; they can help coordinate.

Huntington (Cabell County)

  • How long will my case take? About 30–45 days if complete. Watch PATH and mail.
  • I don’t feel safe cooperating with child support. What do I do? Request “good cause” with your worker and BCSE: BCSE Good Cause. For help, contact local domestic violence services via WV Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
  • Is there help with job training? Yes — WorkForce West Virginia and local community colleges. Ask to include training in your PRC.
  • Who do I call for my case? Find the county office phone through the County Office Locator.
  • Food now? Apply for SNAP at WV PATH. Expedited SNAP can arrive in 7 days for eligible households (see USDA expedited rules).

Morgantown (Monongalia County)

  • Can full‑time students qualify? TANF has strict rules for student status. Ask your worker about vocational programs that count as work activities. Apply at WV PATH.
  • Where do I drop documents if I can’t upload? Use your county office’s secure drop box. Find address via the County Office Locator.
  • I got a sanction notice. What can I do? Ask for the steps to cure and provide any “good cause” documents. You can appeal within about 90 days (check your notice).
  • Child care options near campus? Apply for subsidy: WV Child Care and ask your worker for local referrals.
  • Where can I get legal help? Legal Aid of West Virginia.

Beckley (Raleigh County)

  • I work variable shifts. How do I meet hours? Ask your worker to average hours or mix activities (job search + work). Document your schedule.
  • Need a ride to orientation? Request transportation help in your PRC or ask about remote options.
  • Rent is late. Any help? Try 211, Catholic Charities WV, and your local Salvation Army unit.
  • Can I get WIC too? Yes, if eligible: WV WIC.
  • Where’s the office phone? Use the County Office Locator to get the number and address.

Martinsburg (Berkeley County)

  • How do I check my case status? Log into WV PATH and read messages. Call your county office (locator above).
  • I’m near my 60 months. Anything I can do? Ask about hardship/domestic violence waivers or other supports. Get help from Legal Aid of West Virginia.
  • I lost my EBT card. How do I replace it? Call the EBT number on your card paperwork or contact your county office via the locator to request instructions.
  • Where do I find housing help? Start with HUD’s WV PHA list and the WV Housing Development Fund.
  • Any help for job placement? WorkForce West Virginia and Goodwill’s employment services (e.g., Goodwill of Kanawha Valley).

“If This Doesn’t Work” — Plan B Options (Table)

Problem Plan B steps Links
TANF denial Appeal (often 90 days). Apply for SNAP/WIC/Medicaid/LIHEAP. Seek legal help. WV PATH • Legal Aid WV
Delay/no response Go to county office in person. Ask supervisor for status. Document contacts. County Office Locator
No child care Apply for subsidy; ask PRC for temporary alternatives or remote activities. WV Child Care
Transportation barrier Request bus passes/gas support in PRC; ask about local transit options. WorkForce WV
Unsafe child support cooperation File “good cause” right now; get DV advocate letter. BCSE • WVCADV
Nearing 60 months Ask for hardship/DV waivers; shift to SNAP/WIC/Medicaid/child care. Policy Manuals

Quick Reference: Where to Find Exact Dollar Amounts

To avoid giving outdated numbers, use these official sources for current figures:

If you can’t find the numbers online, call or visit your county office using the County Office Locator and ask for the latest payment standard chart in writing.

Practical Tips That Save Time

  • Put every deadline on your phone calendar: verifications (10 days), interviews, appeals (90 days), time limits (60 months).
  • Upload documents as PDFs/photos through PATH the same day you get them.
  • Keep a “benefits binder” or folder in your car: pay stubs, child care receipts, letters, and copies.
  • If a letter is confusing, bring it to the front desk at your county office and ask someone to explain it before you leave.
  • Tell your worker about big changes within 10 days (job, income, address). Missing this can cause overpayments or sanctions.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from West Virginia Department of Human Services (formerly DHHR), 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 details (eligibility, payment standards, income limits, deadlines) can change at any time. Always confirm the latest rules directly with the West Virginia Department of Human Services through the official links in this guide, especially the WV WORKS program page, policy manuals, and your county office. If you receive a notice, follow the instructions and deadlines on that notice, as those control your case.

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