Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

The purpose of Virginia's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program is to provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the home of relatives, end the dependence of needy parents on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work and marriage and encourage the formation and maintenance of two-parent families.

Participants may be provided with services such as job skills training, work experience, job readiness training, child care assistance, transportation, and other work related expenses.  An eligible child must be under age 18, or if 18, will graduate from high school before age 19, going to school regularly if the child is between the ages of five and 18,  living with a parent or other relative and a U.S. citizen or an eligible immigrant.

CommonHelp is the Commonwealth of Virginia’s fast and easy way to apply online for many Virginia social services assistance programs. Through a single online site, you can find out what assistance you might be eligible for and submit one application saving you time and effort.  You can apply for Benefit Programs online at CommonHelp or by telephone by calling 1-855-635-4370.