Last Updated on January 30, 2024 by Lori Pace
If you are a low-income family in New Mexico with dependent children, you may be eligible for cash assistance through the state’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, also known as NM Works. Administered by the Human Services Department, NM Works aims to provide short-term financial support to needy families while helping them become self-sufficient and meet basic family needs.
NM Works offers more than just cash assistance. The program also provides supportive services such as job training, education programs, and work incentives. These services are designed to help families increase their income and become financially independent over time.
Understanding the eligibility requirements and limitations of NMWorks is crucial for families needing financial assistance in New Mexico. Read until the end to know more about this federal program.
Cash Assistance and Other Supportive Services
As a needy family, you may be eligible for a monthly cash assistance allotment to help cover expenses like rent, utilities, and groceries. If you have a child under 18, you may also be eligible for additional financial support.
This assistance is provided through an EBT card, which can be used to purchase food and other necessities. By receiving welfare benefits through NM TANF, you can get the support you need to improve your family’s financial situation and move towards a more stable future.
The Income Support Division will determine eligibility based on an interview and submission of the requested information. NMWorks also offers work incentives to help recipients become self-supportive and meet the work requirements necessary for eligibility.
Eligibility Requirements for New Mexico TANF
To qualify for assistance through NM TANF, you must meet specific eligibility requirements related to income, household size, and employment status.
To be eligible for TANF, you must have a dependent child age 18 or younger or a pregnant woman. Applicants must also be U.S. citizens or qualified aliens and are permanent residents of New Mexico.
Your countable household income must be at or below 85% of the federal poverty level.
| Household Size | 85% FPG GROSS LIMIT |
| 1 | $860 |
| 2 | $1,166 |
| 3 | $1,472 |
| 4 | $1,778 |
| 5 | $2,084 |
| 6 | $2,390 |
| 7 | $2,696 |
| 8 | $3,002 |
| Additional per person | +$306 |
Additionally, recipients aged 16 to 59 must participate in work-related activities, such as job training or community service, unless they’re exempt due to a disability or caring for a young child.
It’s important to note that only eligible household members can receive benefits, and additional information may be requested after the interview.
Applying for New Mexico TANF Benefits
If you want the help you need to support your family, don’t wait any longer to apply for cash benefits through the NM TANF program.
Applying is easy and can be done online, by mail, or in person. Eligibility is based on categorical and financial criteria, including family composition and monthly income guidelines.
If approved, you’ll receive a monthly cash benefit on an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which can be used like a debit card to withdraw cash or purchase necessary items.
| Household Size | NM Works Monthly Net Cash Benefit |
| 1 | $266 |
| 2 | $357 |
| 3 | $447 |
| 4 | $539 |
| 5 | $630 |
| 6 | $721 |
| 7 | $812 |
| 8 | $922 |
| Additional per person | +$91 |
Job Training and Education Programs
Get ready to improve your skills and increase your chances of finding a job with the job training and education programs available through the New Mexico Works program. As a participant of the NM TANF program, you may be eligible to receive assistance with job search, resume building, and interview skills.
Additionally, you can enroll in educational programs such as GED classes or vocational training to enhance your skills and earning potential. The program also offers work incentives such as earned income disregard and transition bonuses to help you achieve self-sufficiency.
With the NM TANF program, you can receive welfare benefits while pursuing job training and education to improve your household income level and decrease your reliance on unemployment benefits.
Cash Assistance Transition Bonus Program (TBP)
The Cash Assistance Transition Bonus Program (TBP) provides a limited duration and fixed monthly cash assistance bonus to families whose incomes are too high to maintain eligibility in the NM TANF program. TBP participants under 150% of federal poverty guidelines are eligible for a non-prorated benefit amount of $200 for up to 18 months.
To know more about Transition Bonus Program (TBP), you may call your NMWorks provider or customer service at 1-800-283-4465.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum duration a family can receive TANF benefits in New Mexico?
You can receive TANF benefits for a maximum of 60 months. This applies to all states, including New Mexico. However, states may have specific rules for exceptions and extensions.
Are there any restrictions on how TANF benefits can be spent in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, TANF benefits can only be used for basic needs such as food, shelter, and clothing. There are no restrictions on how the money is spent within those categories, but it cannot be used for alcohol, tobacco, or gambling.
Are there any penalties for not meeting the work requirements necessary for eligibility for New Mexico TANF?
If you fail to meet the work requirements necessary for eligibility for TANF, you may face penalties such as reduced benefits or complete loss of benefits. It is important to comply with these requirements to maintain eligibility.
Can non-citizens or individuals without eligible alien status receive NM TANF benefits if they have dependent children?
Non-citizens or individuals without eligible alien status cannot receive New Mexico TANF benefits even if they have dependent children. Eligibility requires children to be citizens or have eligible alien status.
What is the process for appealing a decision regarding eligibility or benefits for New Mexico TANF?
If you disagree with a decision regarding eligibility or benefits for New Mexico TANF, you can file an appeal within 90 days. The appeal will be reviewed by a hearing officer, and a written decision will be sent within 45 days.
Conclusion
By now, you should have a good understanding of what NM TANF is, how it can help you, and the eligibility requirements you need to meet to apply for benefits.
Remember, TANF isn’t just about cash assistance. It also offers various support services to help you get back on your feet, including job training and education programs. However, it’s important to keep in mind that TANF benefits are limited, so it’s important to use them wisely and take advantage of all the resources available to you.
If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your local TANF office for more information and assistance.
