Legal Definitions - Temporary Assistance to Needy Families

Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) is a program that provides financial assistance to families in need. It is a combination of state and federal aid that replaced the Aid to Families with Dependent Children program.

TANF is different from AFDC because families can only receive assistance for up to five years, and states have more control over who is eligible for the program.

For example, a single mother with two children who lost her job and is struggling to make ends meet may be eligible for TANF. The program would provide her with temporary financial assistance to help her pay for basic needs like food, housing, and clothing.

Another example is a family who experienced a natural disaster, such as a hurricane or flood, and lost their home and belongings. TANF could provide them with temporary financial assistance to help them get back on their feet and rebuild their lives.

These examples illustrate how TANF provides temporary financial assistance to families in need, helping them to meet their basic needs and overcome difficult situations.