New Mexico Works (TANF Cash Assistance)
Last updated August 2026
New Mexico Works, the state's TANF program, is a monthly cash benefit for low-income families with children. The money loads onto an EBT card you use like a debit card. It helps with basics like housing, utilities, and clothing while adults work toward a job. Apply online at yes.nm.gov, or at your local Income Support Division office. Questions go to 1-800-283-4465.
The cash amount depends on your family size. The most a family of three can get is $550 a month. A single person gets up to $327, and the grant goes up about $112 for each added person. Your actual grant is the standard of need for your family minus the income you already have.
There are two money tests. Your income must be at or below 85 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, which is $1,888 a month for a family of three. Your household's liquid assets, like cash and bank accounts, must stay at or below $1,500.
Your family has to include a child. You need a dependent child age 18 or younger who is a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen. An 18-year-old must be a full-time high school student on track to graduate.
Work does not shut you out. New Mexico Works is built to support parents while they work or prepare for work. When you have a job, part of your pay is set aside before the grant is figured, so many working parents still qualify. Federal and state time limits do apply to how long you can get cash, so ask your worker how the limits affect you.
Here is the path. After you apply, you have an interview about ten days later. The state then notifies you by letter within 30 days on whether your cash assistance is approved. Because TANF opens doors to SNAP and Medicaid, apply for those at the same time.
Phone 1-800-283-4465
Help available in English and Spanish.
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Families who live in New Mexico, fall below the income and resource limits, and have a dependent child age 18 or younger who is a citizen or a qualified non-citizen
- Most adults take part in work activities through New Mexico Works, and federal and state time limits apply to how long you can receive cash
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Apply online at yes.nm.gov, or at your local Income Support Division office.
- 2
Have proof that a child age 18 or younger lives with you.
- 3
Gather proof of income and assets; the liquid asset limit is $1,500.
- 4
Apply for SNAP and Medicaid at the same visit.
- 5
Complete your interview, then watch for the approval letter within 30 days.
What to have ready
- ID and Social Security numbers for the family
- Proof of income and New Mexico residency
- Proof that you have a dependent child age 18 or younger. Your local office confirms the full list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
How much does New Mexico Works pay?
Up to $550 a month for a family of three. A single person gets up to $327, and the grant rises about $112 for each added person.
What is the income limit?
Your income must be at or below 85 percent of poverty, which is $1,888 a month for a family of three. Liquid assets must stay at or below $1,500.
Do I need a job to qualify?
No. The program supports parents while they work or prepare for work, and part of any pay is set aside before the grant is figured, so many working parents still qualify.
How do I apply?
Online at yes.nm.gov or at your local Income Support Division office. You interview about ten days later and get a decision letter within 30 days.
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