While we are not affiliated with the government in any way, our private company engaged writers to research the TANF program and compiled a guide and the following answers to frequently asked questions. Our goal is to help you get the benefits that you need by providing useful information on the process.

Virgin Islands TANF FAQ Sheet

TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)

Table of Contents 

What Is the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program?

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program provides financial assistance to low-income families. The goal of TANF is to help families become financially self-sufficient. States and U.S. Territories receive block grants from the federal government, which are used to fund each state and territory’s specific TANF program.

Learn more about the TANF program and its primary purposes here.

What Services Does TANF Provide in the U.S. Virgin Islands?

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) provides temporary assistance to financially support families in need. The TANF program also provides eligible families with work preparation services to help them re-enter the workforce or find more stable employment.

What Is the Difference Between TANF and Food Assistance?

TANF and Food Assistance are both assistance programs administered by the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Human Services (DHS). While Food Assistance benefits can only be used to purchase foods that have been approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, TANF benefits are money that can be used however the participant sees fit, with some restrictions.

If you have questions about TANF or Food Assistance, call your local DHS office.

How Much Assistance Does TANF Provide?

The exact benefit amount a family will receive each month will depend on their household income, size and resources. Families can receive these benefits for up to 60 months throughout their lifetime.

How to Qualify for TANF in the U.S. Virgin Islands

To qualify for TANF in the Virgin Islands, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Be a citizen of the U.S. Virgin Islands or legal resident
  • Have children in your care
  • Participate in work and training programs
  • Meet the U.S. Virgin Islands state income requirements for your household size

To learn more about who can receive TANF benefits, click here.

How to Apply for TANF in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Before you apply for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, complete the following three steps:

  1. Check the eligibility requirements.

Learn about the TANF eligibility requirements here.

  1. Gather the documentation and information you will need for the application.

  2. Choose how you are going to apply, whether in person, by fax, by email or by mail.

To apply for TANF by email, fill out the SNAP/CASH Application and send it with copies of your necessary documents to certoffice.stx@dhs.vi.gov.

To apply for TANF by mail, fill out the SNAP/CASH Application and send it with copies of your necessary documents to your local office.

If you have any further questions about the application process, call your local Department of Human Services office.

How to Check Your Application Status

What Happens After You Apply for TANF?

After your application has been processed, you should receive a notice in the mail from the Department of Human Services with your determination, your benefit amount and how you will be receiving the benefits, if you are eligible. If you qualify for benefits, you will receive an EBT card by mail.

Once you receive your benefits, you can use them to support your family as you see fit, while following the restrictions.

If you require additional assistance or have questions about your determination call your local DHS office.

How to Appeal a Denial of Benefits

If you do not agree with the TANF benefit decision given to you by the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Human Services, you can appeal your decision in person or by mail after receiving your determination letter. Review your determination letter to find the date that your request must be submitted by.

To file a claim by mail, you will need to write a letter that includes the following information:

  • Your name
  • Your address
  • Your phone number
  • The reason for your appeal

You must also enclose a copy of your determination letter when filing an appeal by mail.

Need More Help?

For help with obtaining Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, or for any further questions about your application, call or visit your U.S. Virgin Islands local Department of Human Services office. You may also fax or mail documents to your local office.

View or Download Our Free Guide

While we are not affiliated with the government in any way, our private company engaged writers to research the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program and compiled a guide and these answers to frequently asked questions. Our goal is to help you get the benefits that you need by providing useful information on the process.

Our free TANF Guide is filled with helpful information about how to apply, program eligibility requirements and how to get in touch with local offices. You can view our free guide here.

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