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Glossary

TANF time limit

A federal rule that limits how long adults can receive cash assistance through TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families).

Federal law generally limits adults to 60 months (5 years) of federally funded TANF cash assistance over their lifetime. This means if you receive TANF payments, the clock starts ticking, and after 5 years of benefits, you may no longer qualify for cash help through the program.

However, each state runs its own TANF program and may have its own rules. Some states set shorter time limits, while others may have exceptions for certain situations. Your state's specific time limit and any exceptions will depend on your state's TANF program rules.

If you're getting close to your time limit, talk to your TANF caseworker about what happens next and what other help might be available to you.

Programs where this matters

MedicaidCenters for Medicare & Medicaid ServicesMedicaid is free or low-cost health coverage run by each state with federal funding, for children, adults, pregnant people, older adults and people with disabilities.SNAPUSDA Food and Nutrition ServiceSNAP gives monthly benefits on an EBT card to help households with low income buy food.WICUSDA Food and Nutrition ServiceWIC gives healthy foods, nutrition education and breastfeeding support to pregnant women, new mothers, infants and young children with low income.Child Care AidHHS Administration for Children and FamiliesChild care assistance helps families with low income pay for child care so parents can work, look for work, or go to school or training.TANFHHS Administration for Children and FamiliesTANF gives cash help and support services to families with children who have low income. Each state runs its own program.