Mississippi TANF (Cash Assistance)
Last updated August 2026
Mississippi TANF provides monthly cash assistance to low-income families with dependent children to help meet basic needs. Apply online at the Access MS portal (access.ms.gov), where an eligibility pre-screener is also available. For help, call Economic Assistance Client Services at 800-948-3050.
Eligibility runs on income. To qualify, your family's monthly income must be at or below the limit for your household size; for a family of three, that limit is $1,074 a month. The county confirms the limit for your family.
There is a federal lifetime clock: a family can receive TANF for no more than 60 months total, unless the case includes only minor children or meets a hardship exemption. Treat the check as a bridge.
The work program is central. Non-exempt adults must take part in the TANF Work Program, TWP, doing work experience, job search, job training, or similar activities, aimed at preparing you for a job. Exemptions exist, including for people who are disabled, over 60, under 18, in a difficult third trimester, caring for an ill person, or caring for a child under 12 months.
Work comes with support, not just requirements. TWP participants receive a monthly transportation stipend, child care through the Child Care Payment Program, and help with work-related expenses like uniforms, equipment, or tools.
Benefits are issued on a Way2Go debit card, with card support at 1-855-709-1079. Because the cash is modest, stack the rest: the same income often qualifies the household for SNAP and, for the children, Medicaid, and 2-1-1 finds local emergency funds.
Phone 1-800-948-3050
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Families with at least one child under 18 who are Mississippi residents, with monthly income at or below the limit for their household size and no more than $2,000 in countable resources
- Most adults who are not exempt must take part in the TANF Work Program, and benefits are limited to 60 months over a lifetime
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Apply online at access.ms.gov, or use the eligibility pre-screener first.
- 2
Provide proof of income (the family-of-three limit is $1,074 a month) and your children's information.
- 3
Join the TANF Work Program when referred, unless you meet an exemption.
- 4
Apply for SNAP and Medicaid at the same time.
What to have ready
- ID and Social Security numbers for the adults applying
- Proof of income for the household
- Proof that a child lives with you. Your county office confirms the full list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
Who qualifies for Mississippi TANF?
Low-income families with dependent children whose monthly income is at or below the limit for their household size, $1,074 a month for a family of three.
How long can I get it?
Up to 60 months in a lifetime under the federal limit, unless the case includes only minor children or meets a hardship exemption.
Do I have to work?
Non-exempt adults must join the TANF Work Program. Exemptions include disability, being over 60 or under 18, a difficult third trimester, and caring for a child under 12 months.
What support comes with the work program?
A monthly transportation stipend, child care through the Child Care Payment Program, and help with work expenses like uniforms and tools.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
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