North Dakota TANF (Cash Assistance)
Last updated August 2026
TANF is North Dakota's monthly cash help for low-income families with children. The money goes on an Electronic Payment Card (EPC). TANF also comes with work-readiness, training, and job-placement help to move families toward steady work. Apply online through the Self Service Portal, or print and return the application to the Customer Support Center or a local Human Service Zone office. The Customer Support Center answers questions at 1-866-614-6005.
The most important rule is the clock. There is a 60-month lifetime limit. The state cannot give TANF to a household that includes an adult who has already received 60 countable months of TANF. Those months are counted since July 1, 1997, and include months from other states or tribal programs. Only a few limited exceptions exist, so treat every month as scarce.
Eligibility centers on a child. A relative caring for a child may qualify if the child is under 18, or will finish high school by age 19, and is without parent support because a parent has died, has a disability, is absent, or for age reasons. If you are pregnant, you may also qualify.
TANF is work-focused. Most adults who receive TANF must take part in the JOBS program, which stands for Job Opportunities and Basic Skills. It gives work-readiness, training, and job-placement services to help you find work.
Gather your papers before you apply. You will need proof of citizenship or alien status, where you live, age, and identity, plus Social Security numbers, your relationship to the child, income for last month and this month, and proof of assets like bank accounts, retirement plans, life insurance, and vehicles.
Because the cash has a hard time limit, the connected help matters most. Apply for SNAP, Medicaid, and other help at the same time, and dial 2-1-1 to find local emergency funds that can bridge a gap.
Phone 1-866-614-6005
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Families with children who are North Dakota residents and meet an income and resource test
- Most adults must take part in the JOBS work program, 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 through the Self Service Portal, or return a paper form to the Customer Support Center or a local office.
- 2
Gather proof of income, identity, and your relationship to the child.
- 3
Call the Customer Support Center at 1-866-614-6005 with questions.
- 4
Meet with staff about the JOBS work program if you are asked to take part.
- 5
Watch your mail for the decision and set up your Electronic Payment Card after approval.
What to have ready
- Proof of citizenship or alien status, age, and identity
- Social Security numbers for the family and proof of your relationship to the child
- Proof of income for last month and this month, plus proof of assets like bank accounts and vehicles. Your local office confirms the full list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
How long can I get TANF?
There is a 60-month lifetime limit for a household with an adult recipient, counted since July 1, 1997, and including months from other states or tribal programs. A few exceptions exist.
Do I have to work?
Most adults who get TANF must take part in the JOBS program, which gives work-readiness, training, and job-placement help.
How is the money paid?
Cash assistance is loaded on an Electronic Payment Card (EPC) that you use like a debit card.
How do I apply?
Online through the Self Service Portal, or by returning a paper form to the Customer Support Center or a local Human Service Zone office.
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