Nebraska ADC (Aid to Dependent Children / TANF Cash)
Last updated August 2026
Aid to Dependent Children, or ADC, is Nebraska's cash-assistance program for low-income families with children. It is the state's TANF program, paid for by the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families block grant. The goal is short-term help while a family works toward a job. Apply online through iServe Nebraska or at your local DHHS office.
The most important rule to know is the clock. Parents who are able to reach independence are capped at 60 months of cash assistance over their lifetime. That is a lifetime total, not a yearly count. So treat each month you use as one you cannot get back later.
Some cases are not tied to that 60-month limit. If the caretaker is not the child's parent, the limit does not apply. If the parent is disabled, or is otherwise found unable to work, the case is not time-limited either. If one of these fits your family, ask DHHS to note it.
ADC is built around work. Adults who are able to work take part in Nebraska's Employment First program. Employment First gives you services to help you move toward a job, such as training and work preparation. You also must cooperate with Child Support Enforcement about any parent who is absent from the home.
To qualify, you must be a low-income family with a dependent child in the home. You must meet an income and resource test. This page cannot tell you your exact benefit or promise approval. DHHS reviews your case and decides. What we can say is that it is worth applying if money is tight and you have a child at home.
Apply online at iServe Nebraska, the same portal used for SNAP and Medicaid. So a parent can apply for several programs in one place. For help, call the general DHHS line at (402) 471-3121, or use TDD at (800) 833-7352. You can also dial 2-1-1 to find local emergency funds while your ADC case is reviewed.
Phone 402-471-3121
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Low-income families with a dependent child in the home who meet an income and resource test; adults must cooperate with Child Support Enforcement for any absent parent
- Capable adults are limited to 60 months of ADC in their lifetime, and most take part in the Employment First work program
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Apply online at iServe Nebraska or at your local DHHS office.
- 2
Show that you have a dependent child in the home and meet the income and resource test.
- 3
Take part in the Employment First work program if you are able to work.
- 4
Cooperate with Child Support Enforcement about any absent parent.
- 5
Apply for SNAP and Medicaid in the same iServe visit.
What to have ready
- ID and Social Security numbers for the family
- Proof of income and of your resources
- Proof that a dependent child lives with you. Your DHHS office confirms the full list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
How long can I get ADC?
Parents able to reach independence are limited to 60 months of cash assistance in a lifetime. Cases where the caretaker is not the parent, or the parent is disabled or unable to work, are not time-limited.
Do I have to work to get ADC?
Adults who are able to work take part in the Employment First program, which offers training and work preparation. You must also cooperate with Child Support Enforcement about any absent parent.
Who qualifies for ADC?
Low-income families with a dependent child in the home who meet an income and resource test. DHHS reviews your case and decides.
How do I apply?
Apply online at iServe Nebraska or at your local DHHS office. Call (402) 471-3121 for help, or use TDD at (800) 833-7352.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
See all Nebraska programs →Free · Private · No account needed