TANF Child-Only Grants for Kinship Caregivers

TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) child-only grants pay monthly cash assistance based on the child's need, regardless of the kinship caregiver's own income or immigration status. Approximately 50% of child-only TANF grants go to kinship/grandfamily caregivers (grandparents, aunts, uncles, older siblings). Often the only ongoing monthly cash benefit for unlicensed kinship caregivers not in the formal foster care system. Amount and eligibility rules vary significantly by state.

Monthly cash payment for the child's needs — amount varies widely by state. Examples: a single child-only grant is typically $200-$350/month in most states (compare: licensed foster care maintenance is often $500-$1,000+/month). Key features: (1) Child-only: the benefit is for the child's needs — the caregiver's income is not a barrier; (2) Caregiver does not need to be a US citizen; (3) No work requirement at federal level for child-only cases; (4) Available to unlicensed relative caregivers who do not have foster care licensure; (5) States may also layer TANF-funded services (job training, transportation, counseling) on top of the cash grant. For comparison: licensed kinship foster parents with ACF-approved kin-specific standards can receive the same maintenance payment as non-relative foster parents — typically 2-4x higher than child-only TANF. Apply at your state's TANF or social services office; find application at benefits.gov.

Some details for this program are still being verified. Check the official source for the most current information.

Services

Monthly cash payment for the child's needs — amount varies widely by state. Examples: a single child-only grant is typically $200-$350/month in most states (compare: licensed foster care maintenance is often $500-$1,000+/month). Key features: (1) Child-only: the benefit is for the child's needs — the caregiver's income is not a barrier; (2) Caregiver does not need to be a US citizen; (3) No work requirement at federal level for child-only cases; (4) Available to unlicensed relative caregivers who do not have foster care licensure; (5) States may also layer TANF-funded services (job training, transportation, counseling) on top of the cash grant. For comparison: licensed kinship foster parents with ACF-approved kin-specific standards can receive the same maintenance payment as non-relative foster parents — typically 2-4x higher than child-only TANF. Apply at your state's TANF or social services office; find application at benefits.gov.

How to apply

Apply online or find more information at the official program page.