Page 27

STATE OF CONNECTICUT TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES (TANF) STATE PLAN 2024-2026

Effective Date: 10/1/23 – 9/30/26 ☐ Initial Submission Date: 12/31/2023 ☒ Revision Date: 04/15/2024 Page: 27

D. 6. Barrier Intervention Referral Program – Department of Labor

The Barrier Intervention Referral (BIR) program has been implemented through an agreement between the State of Connecticut Department of Labor (DOL) and the State of Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) for the provision of BIR services to families in the Jobs First Employment Services (JFES) program who have barriers to employment that impact their ability to participate in JFES. These BIR services are provided by a third-party social services agency with offices located around the state.

DSS provides safety net services for certain families identified as having significant barriers to employment and families who are at risk of losing benefits under the Temporary Family Assistance (TFA) program or are no longer receiving TFA benefits. BIR services are services provided directly to TFA/JFES program participants who are experiencing one or more barriers to employment that impact their ability to participate in the JFES program. BIR referrals are made by JFES case managers directly to the third-party social services agency so that the agency can assist the JFES client in reducing or eliminating the barrier(s) that prevent the client from participating in the JFES program.

TANF Purpose # 1: Provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or the homes of relatives.

TANF Purpose #2: End the dependence of needy parents on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work, and marriage.

Funding: Commingled funds that use state maintenance of effort funds.

D. 7. Earned Income Tax Credit Program – Department of Revenue Services

The Connecticut Earned Income Tax Credit (CT EITC) is a refundable state income tax credit for low income working individuals and families. The state credit mirrors the federal Earned Income Tax Credit. The Connecticut General Assembly approved the CT EITC during the 2011 legislative session. When both the federal and CT EITC amounts exceed the amount of taxes owed, it results in a tax refund to those who claim and qualify for the credit.

TANF Purpose # 1: Provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or the homes of relatives.

TANF Purpose #2: End the dependence of needy parents on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work, and marriage.

Funding: Commingled funds that use state maintenance of effort funds.