TANF

Before the Application process begins, staff deliver an up-front Texas Works message to the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) applicants explaining that:

TANF is temporary and has time limits;

there are other alternatives and options for the applicant instead of TANF benefits;

an applicant should consider jobs and other resources (such as child support) before pursuing TANF;

if an applicant chooses to apply for assistance, the individual is requesting help finding a job; and

even if an applicant chooses not to apply for TANF, the individual still may apply for Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to support employment while working toward self-sufficiency.

Staff must consider and determine which messages are appropriate for a particular applicant.