How Much Cash Assistance Will I Get in MD?

Cash assistance programs in Maryland offer temporary financial support to eligible families, helping them meet basic needs and encouraging steps toward financial independence. Understanding how these systems operate can clarify the process for those seeking assistance.

Maryland’s Primary Cash Assistance Program

Maryland’s primary cash assistance initiative is the Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) program, the state’s implementation of the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant. TCA provides monthly cash benefits to low-income families with dependent children, helping them cover essential expenses like housing, food, utilities, clothing, and childcare, while fostering self-sufficiency through employment and education.

This program is distinct from other forms of public assistance not involving direct cash payments, such as SNAP for food or Medicaid for healthcare. While TCA offers direct financial aid, it integrates support services like job training, childcare assistance, and transportation assistance to help recipients achieve financial independence. TCA benefits have a lifetime limit of 60 months, though some hardship exemptions may apply.

Eligibility for Cash Assistance

To qualify for Maryland’s Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) program, applicants must satisfy specific criteria. Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship or qualified non-citizen status, and Maryland residency. The program is for families with dependent children (under 18, or under 19 if a full-time high school student). Pregnant women may also qualify, starting in their third trimester, or earlier if a medical condition prevents them from working.

Financial eligibility is determined by income guidelines that vary with household size. Household income must fall below a state-established threshold; assets are not considered for TCA eligibility. Both earned and unearned income (e.g., child support, workers’ compensation, unemployment benefits) are assessed. Applicants must also cooperate with child support enforcement efforts unless exempt, and comply with substance abuse provisions.

Most able-bodied adults receiving TCA must participate in work activities, including job searches, employment, training, or education programs. The work activity requirement is up to 40 hours per week, with flexibility for single parents caring for a child under six (20 hours a week). Adults must sign a Family Investment Agreement, outlining their plan for self-sufficiency. Exemptions exist for individuals with disabilities, those caring for very young children, or those caring for a disabled family member.

Calculating Your Cash Assistance Amount

The amount of Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) an eligible family receives in Maryland is individualized, depending on household size and countable income. The calculation deducts the household’s countable net income from the maximum allowable payment for their household size. If a household’s total net income exceeds this amount, they are not eligible for TCA.

For instance, as of January 1, 2025, the maximum monthly TCA benefit for a household of one is $339, for a household of two it is $596, and for a household of three it is $753. These amounts are part of the Family Investment Program (FIP) schedule and are adjusted periodically based on factors like changes in the Consumer Price Index. Benefits are only issued if the calculated amount is $10 or more.

Income calculations are complex, involving rules for earned and unearned income, and disregards. A percentage of gross earned income may be disregarded during eligibility testing and after eligibility is established. Payments for childcare or the care of an incapacitated adult can be deducted. Special rules apply to blended families, where a portion of a stepparent’s income may be disregarded, including personal needs allowances and allowances for their legal dependents.

Applying for Benefits and Required Information

Before applying for Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) in Maryland, prospective applicants should gather documents and information. This preparation streamlines the process and ensures all necessary details are available. Applicants need proof of identity for all household members (e.g., driver’s license or state ID) and Social Security numbers for everyone in the household.

Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill or lease agreement) is necessary to confirm Maryland domicile. Documentation of all household income (e.g., pay stubs, employer letters, unearned income award letters) must be provided. Information regarding household composition (e.g., birth certificates for dependent children) will verify family structure. For non-U.S. born applicants, proof of citizenship or qualified immigration status is required.

While assets are not considered for eligibility, information about them might be requested for financial assessment. Certain assets, like a primary vehicle or essential household goods, are excluded. Having these documents prepared in advance can assist with the application and interview process.

Submitting Your Application and Ongoing Responsibilities

After preparing documentation, applicants can submit their completed Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) application through multiple methods. Applications can be submitted online via the Maryland MyDHR portal or MarylandBenefits website, or in person at a local Department of Social Services (DSS) office. Some DSS offices also accept applications by mail, fax, or other electronic means; confirm procedures with the local office.

Following submission, applicants will be scheduled for an interview, which may occur in person or over the phone. A caseworker will verify provided information and discuss the family’s financial situation. Processing timelines vary, but the agency will communicate any delays. Once approved, a 12-month certification period is common, meaning benefits are approved for a full year without a midpoint review, unless there is a major change in circumstances.

Receiving TCA benefits comes with ongoing responsibilities to maintain eligibility. Recipients must promptly report any changes in income, household size, or employment status to their local DSS office. Cooperation with child support enforcement efforts is a requirement; non-compliance can lead to benefit reductions or denial. Regular participation in work activities, as outlined in the Family Investment Agreement, is mandatory for most adult recipients. Periodically, recipients undergo a recertification process to re-evaluate eligibility for continued assistance.