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
Report
Not Enough To Live On: DC’s TANF Benefits Are Among The Least Adequate In The Nation
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • March 14, 2006 • Income & Poverty / TANF & Income Support
Testimony
Testimony of Idara Nickelson, Policy Analyst, At the Public Hearing on Fiscal Year 2004 and Fiscal Year 2005 Spending and Performance by the Department of Human Services District of Columbia Committee on Human Services
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • February 22, 2005 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget / TANF & Income Support
Report
The District Should Use Its Upcoming TANF Bonus to Increase Cash Assistance and Remove Barriers to Work
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • September 29, 2004 • 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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