Indiana TANF (Cash Assistance)
Last updated August 2026
Indiana TANF gives monthly cash to low-income families with children. Be clear-eyed about the size: the maximum monthly payment for a family of three is $513, well below what a family needs. Apply online through the FSSA Benefits Portal at fssabenefits.in.gov, or at a local DFR office if you lack internet. The cash assistance line is 1-800-457-8283.
The income lines are tight. For a family of three, the gross income standard is $778 a month and the net standard is $513. Your countable assets cannot exceed $1,000 at application, though up to $20,000 of equity in vehicles is excluded, so an ordinary car does not disqualify you.
It is not only for parents. TANF serves children under 18 living with a parent or a relative such as a grandparent, aunt, or uncle who meets the rules. A relative raising a child should apply rather than assume it is only for parents.
The work requirement runs through IMPACT, Indiana's employment and training program. Adults deemed mandatory must attend an Applicant Job Search Orientation and complete six employer contacts, three of them job applications, so budget time for that from the start.
Check before you file. A Do I Qualify for TANF screening tool is available on the FSSA benefits portal, which can save you a full application if the numbers do not fit.
Because the cash is so small, the real strategy is stacking. SNAP reaches far more households, the Healthy Indiana Plan and Hoosier Healthwise cover the adults and children, and, uniquely in Indiana, your township trustee provides emergency help with rent and utilities. Dial 2-1-1 for local funds too.
Phone 1-800-403-0864
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Families with a child under 18 living with a parent or a relative such as a grandparent, aunt, or uncle, who meet strict income guidelines
- Adult applicants deemed mandatory for IMPACT must attend Applicant Job Search Orientation and make employer contacts, and federal and state time limits apply
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Check the Do I Qualify screening tool, then apply at fssabenefits.in.gov or a local DFR office.
- 2
Provide proof of income (gross under $778 for three) and assets under $1,000.
- 3
Attend the IMPACT job search orientation and complete your employer contacts.
- 4
Apply for SNAP and Medicaid, and ask your township trustee about emergency help.
What to have ready
- ID and Social Security numbers for the adults applying
- Proof of income and assets
- Proof that a child lives with you. Your DFR office confirms the full list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
How much does Indiana TANF pay?
The maximum for a family of three is $513 a month, well below the family's needs. A common figure of about $288 is out of date.
What are the income and asset limits?
For a family of three, gross income under $778 a month and net under $513. Countable assets cannot exceed $1,000, though up to $20,000 of vehicle equity is excluded.
Can a grandparent or other relative apply?
Yes. TANF serves children under 18 living with a parent or a qualifying relative such as a grandparent, aunt, or uncle.
What is the work requirement?
Adults deemed mandatory for IMPACT must attend a job search orientation and complete six employer contacts, three of them job applications.
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