TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) is there to ensure that DC’s children have their most basic needs met, no matter the economic hardships their parents face.
The District’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, administered by the Department of Human Services, makes sure children living in poverty have their most basic needs met in the short term. TANF also helps put families on the path to stability by helping their parents get back on their feet. DCFPI works to ensure that TANF offers comprehensive and effective services, including adequate cash assistance benefits and services such as job training and transportation subsidies.
Featured Publications & Resources
Testimony
Testimomy of Ed Lazere at the Budget Oversight Hearing for The Fiscal Year 2016 Budget Support Act Before the DC Council Committee of the Whole, May 8, 2015
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • May 8, 2015 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget / TANF & Income Support / Taxes
Testimony
Testimony of Kate Coventry at the Budget Oversight Hearing on The Department of Human Services, April 24, 2015
By Kate Coventry • April 24, 2015 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget / TANF & Income Support
Blog
Taking Time to Get the TANF Time Limit Right: A One-year Extension of Assistance to Families Makes Sense
By Ed Lazere • April 15, 2015 • Income & Poverty / TANF & Income Support
Latest on this Issue
Testimony
TANF Benefits Are a Lifeline for DC Families, and Limits and Cuts Will Do Major Harm
By Tazra Mitchell • June 6, 2025 • TANF & Income Support
Fact Sheets
DC Can Boost Income to Tackle Child Poverty
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • May 23, 2024 • Income & Poverty / TANF & Income Support
Testimony
District Child Tax Credit Bill is a Tool for Tackling Child Poverty and Should be Strengthened
By Erica Williams • January 24, 2024 • Income & Poverty / TANF & Income Support
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