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TANF STATE PLAN STATE OF MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Page 16 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
In addition to the above work activities, Michigan may establish pilot programs aimed at increasing work participation and client self-sufficiency. 4. Employment Related Sanctions If a recipient fails to participate in employment-related activities or family self- sufficiency activities without good cause, penalties are applied based on the individual in the group with the highest number of occurrences of non-compliance.
• If the individual in the group with the highest number of occurrences has been non-compliant one time, the FIP is closed for a minimum of three months.
• If the individual in the group with the highest number of occurrences has been non-compliant two times, the FIP is closed for a minimum of six months.
• If the individual in the group with the highest number of occurrences has been non-compliant three times, the result is lifetime FIP closure for the group.
These penalties help to ensure that clients participate in the program and families with non-cooperating members will not receive assistance while the person continues to refuse to participate.
5. Eldercare Workforce
At this time, Michigan has no plans in place to assist individuals to train for, seek, and maintain employment providing direct care in a long-term care facility or other occupations related to elder care for which the state identifies an unmet need for service personnel.
6. TANF EBT Requirement
Michigan uses the Bridge card, an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) issuance system, which allows clients to receive their FIP benefit using debit card technology. FIP benefits are deposited electronically into the FIP account and clients can securely access their FIP benefit by using their Bridge card and personal identification number (PIN). Clients access their FIP benefits using their Bridge card and PIN at automated teller machines (ATM) (up to four times a month without a charge) and at point of sale (POS) devices at retailers displaying the Quest logo or sign (with no fee).
Upon the client receiving their Bridge card, the client also receives a card mailer with basic information on how to use the Bridge card. This mailer also explains applicable fees and surcharges that may apply with some uses of the Bridge card. Bridge card information is also available on MDHHS’s public website as well as in the Application for Assistance information booklet.