Cash Assistance Programs in Missouri

Missouri offers a variety of government programs designed to provide cash and other forms of assistance to people in need. Most of the programs are federally funded while others are state funded or state operated. 

Federally Funded Cash Assistance Programs

Temporary Assistance (TA):

This program offers a monthly cash benefit to help families cover costs for their children, such as clothing, utilities, and other services. . Recipients may also need to participate in employment and training services through the Missouri Work Assistance (MWA) Program.

What are the benefits of the Missouri Temporary Assistance (TA)?

The amount of TA benefits depends on your family's income and size. For instance, a family of three in Missouri with little or no income can receive $292 each month. For short-term needs, you may request a one-time lump sum payment equal to 3 months of TA benefits, available only once in a 12-month period for those with a "good cause." TA benefits are intended as temporary support, with a limit of 45 months (3 years and 9 months) of cash assistance in Missouri.

What can I use the money for if I get Missouri Temporary Assistance?

The Missouri Temporary Assistance (TA) program provides monthly cash benefits primarily designed to help eligible families cover the essential needs of their children. While there are no strict guidelines on every specific expense that the money can be used for, the program generally aims to support costs related to the well-being and care of the children in the family.

Typically, TA funds can be utilized for expenses such as:

1. Basic Needs: This includes food, clothing, and shelter. The funds are often used to ensure that children have adequate nutrition, appropriate clothing, and a safe place to live.
2. Utilities: Families can use the funds to pay for essential utilities such as electricity, gas, and water, ensuring a livable and comfortable home environment for the children.
3. Educational and School-Related Expenses: While not explicitly stated, it's reasonable to use the funds for necessary educational materials and activities that support the children's schooling and educational development.
4. Healthcare: Although healthcare might be covered under other programs like Medicaid, TA funds could potentially be used for additional healthcare-related expenses that are not covered elsewhere.
5. Childcare: For parents who are working or participating in job training as required by the TA program, childcare expenses are a permissible use of the funds.

It's important to note that while TA provides financial assistance, it is expected that the funds will be used responsibly to support the household, particularly the needs of the children. Misuse of TA funds can lead to disqualification from the program. For detailed guidelines and restrictions on the use of TA funds, it is advisable to consult with a representative from the Missouri Department of Social Services or the local Family Support Division office.

Who qualifies for Missouri Temporary Assistance (TA)?

To qualify for the Missouri Temporary Assistance (TA) program, a set of eligibility criteria must be met. Here's an overview of the key requirements:

1. Residency and Citizenship: You must be a resident of the state of Missouri, and either a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident.
2. Employment Status: You need to be unemployed or underemployed, earning very low wages.
3. Family Composition: The program is designed for families with dependent children. This includes being pregnant or having a child under the age of 19.
4. Income and Resources: Your family's income and resources are crucial factors. To be considered low-income, your countable resources should not exceed $1,000 at the time of application. The income of all household members, including biological or adoptive parents of eligible children and any needy non-parent caretaker relative or guardian, is considered in determining eligibility. Specific income disregards, such as a standard work exemption and a $30 plus 1/3 disregard for a limited time, are applied to encourage employment among applicants.
5. Participation in Work Activities: Recipients are required to participate in work activities through the Missouri Work Assistance (MWA) program for a minimum number of hours per week, unless exempt for a valid reason. Failure to meet these requirements can lead to a reduction or termination of benefits.

How do I apply for Missouri Temporary Assistance (TA)?

Applying for TA can be done in person at your local Family Support Division office or online for expedited processing. If approved, you will receive payment through direct deposit to your bank account or on an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Card within 45 days. Applicants aged 18 or older must answer questions about potential drug use, which can lead to a drug test. Refusal to cooperate can result in ineligibility for TA benefits for three years.

For more detailed information, you can visit the Missouri Department of Social Services website or contact the Family Support Division Information Center at 855-373-4636.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): 

TANF offers assistance and support to needy families with children, with the aim of enabling children to be cared for at home. To be eligible, individuals must be residents of Missouri, U.S. citizens, legal aliens, or qualified aliens, and have low or very low income. Unemployment or underemployment is also a requirement for eligibility.

Eligibility for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), known as Temporary Assistance (TA) in Missouri, is determined based on several criteria:

1. Citizenship Status: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.
2. Residency: Applicants must be residents of Missouri.
3. Family Composition: TA is designed for families with dependent children. This includes pregnant women and parents (or caretakers) with children under the age of 19.
4. Income and Resources: Applicants must have a low income and limited resources. Missouri TA program typically requires that countable resources do not exceed a certain amount at the time of application. The income of all household members is considered in determining eligibility.
5. Employment Status: Applicants should be unemployed, underemployed, or earning very low wages. Recipients are usually required to participate in work activities through the Missouri Work Assistance program unless exempt for a valid reason.
6. Compliance with Program Requirements: Recipients must comply with Missouri Work Assistance program requirements and other program stipulations.
7. Drug Testing: Applicants aged 18 or older may be subject to questions about drug use and potentially a drug test. Refusal to comply can affect eligibility.

The exact income limits and resource caps can vary and are subject to change, so it's recommended to check the most current guidelines provided by the Missouri Department of Social Services.

Child Care Subsidy Program: 

This program provides help with paying for child care and is available through  Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program

Medicaid and The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP): These programs offer health coverage to low-income individuals, families, and children, covering expenses such as doctor visits, prescription drugs, and hospital stays.

The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program: WIC provides food assistance to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children, offering nutritious foods, nutrition education, and resources to promote healthy eating and living.

The Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP)

Formerly known as Section 8, this program offers assistance to low-income families and persons with disabilities to afford safe and decent housing.

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

This program helps low-income households with energy bills, offering financial assistance for electricity, gas, oil, and other utility bills.

Federal Pell Grant

Available to students pursuing an undergraduate degree, this grant assists with school fees, books, and other school-related expenses.

Rental Assistance Program (RAP) One-Time Assistance

This program helps prevent eviction and re-establish housing stability, covering up to three months of rent, utility deposits, and past due utility bills.

State Funded Programs

Access Missouri Financial Assistance Program

This need-based program offers financial assistance to Missouri residents attending college, with award amounts varying based on the type of school and the student's Expected Family Contribution (EFC).

Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC)

MHDC provides various housing programs and services, including affordable housing options.

Missouri Head Start

A federally-funded program offering free early childhood development services and centers for low-income families, including health and food services for children up to 5 years old.